A Scenic Stop Along the Koya-Ryujin Skyline
The Koya-Ryujin Skyline is a mountain road approximately 42.7 kilometers long, running between Mount Koya and Ryujin Onsen. It is renowned for its beautiful scenery and is regarded as one of Japan’s outstanding scenic driving routes.
Native forests of beech and Japanese oak spread across the mountainsides, while layer upon layer of ridges creates magnificent views characteristic of the Kii Mountains. In autumn, the forests turn vivid shades of red, orange, and yellow, attracting visitors and photography enthusiasts.
Spring brings fresh green leaves, while summer offers deep green forests and cool mountain breezes. In winter, snow and rime ice can transform the landscape into a beautiful white wonderland that feels surprisingly different from the generally mild climate associated with southern Wakayama.
The Landmark Gomasan Sky Tower
The symbol of the roadside station is the 33-meter-high Gomasan Sky Tower. Its distinctive design was inspired by a stack of goma-gi, wooden sticks traditionally burned during Buddhist goma fire rituals.
The design is also connected to a local legend surrounding Mount Gomadanzan. According to the legend, the Heian-period warrior Taira no Koremori came to this area after the defeat of the Taira clan in the Genpei War. It is said that he performed a goma fire ritual here and sought divine guidance concerning the future of his clan.
The tower therefore serves not only as a lookout but also as a landmark representing the history and legends of the surrounding mountains.
A 360-Degree Mountain Panorama
The observation area provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the Kii Mountains. To the east, visitors can see the Daikōgahara and Omine mountain ranges, while views toward the west extend toward the islands and waters of the Kii Channel.
On exceptionally clear days, it may even be possible to see as far as the Shikoku Mountains. Because of the high elevation, clouds sometimes form below the observation point, creating a spectacular sea of clouds that makes the surrounding mountains appear to float above a white ocean.
The area is also famous for beautiful sunrises and sunsets and has been recognized as one of the 100 Best Sunrise and Sunset Viewing Spots in Wakayama Prefecture.
A Remarkable Stargazing Destination
The area around Gomasan Sky Tower is also known as one of the excellent stargazing locations in the Kansai region. Its high elevation and distance from major urban areas mean that there is relatively little artificial light at night.
On clear evenings, countless stars become visible across the dark mountain sky. Depending on the season and conditions, visitors may be able to see the Milky Way and meteor showers.
The spacious parking area also makes the site convenient for visitors who bring their own telescopes and cameras. During special astronomical events, such as lunar eclipses and other celestial phenomena, astronomy enthusiasts gather here to observe the night sky.
Mount Ryujindake and Mount Gomadanzan
Two of the most notable mountains near the roadside station are Mount Ryujindake, at 1,382 meters, and Mount Gomadanzan, at 1,372 meters.
For many years, Mount Gomadanzan was considered the highest mountain in Wakayama Prefecture. However, a survey by the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan in 2000 confirmed that a nearby peak was approximately 10 meters higher.
The newly recognized higher peak was eventually given the name Ryujindake through a public naming process. Today, the surrounding area is sometimes described as the “roof of Kishu,” referring to the highest mountain region in Wakayama.
Easy Hiking in the Mountain Forests
Because roads reach close to the mountain summits, visitors do not need advanced mountaineering equipment to enjoy the area. Well-maintained walking trails allow visitors to explore the forests and experience the natural environment of the Kii Mountains at a relaxed pace.
In spring, sunlight filtering through fresh green leaves creates a particularly refreshing atmosphere. In autumn, the trails become surrounded by colorful foliage, offering beautiful opportunities for photography and leisurely walks.
Gomadanzan Forest Park Wildlife
On the southern slopes of Mount Gomadanzan is Gomadanzan Forest Park Wildlife, an area where visitors can experience the rich natural environment of the Kii Mountains.
The park contains extensive native forests dominated by beech and Japanese oak trees. One of its highlights is a rhododendron garden said to contain approximately 60,000 plants, creating a spectacular display of flowers in spring.
The area is also suitable for birdwatching and forest bathing, a Japanese practice of relaxing and reconnecting with nature by spending quiet time among trees.
Multi-purpose open spaces and forest recreation areas are also available, making the park a pleasant place for families, hikers, and anyone looking to enjoy the peaceful mountain environment.
Local Products from Ryujin Village
The shop on the first floor sells a variety of local specialties from Ryujin Village and the Kumano region. Visitors can find traditional preserved foods, locally made sweets, processed foods, wooden crafts, and other regional products.
Popular Souvenir: Shiitake-bushi
One particularly interesting local product is “shiitake-bushi,” made from shiitake mushrooms grown in Ryujin Village. Dried shiitake mushrooms are processed into thin flakes similar to traditional katsuobushi, or dried bonito flakes.
With its rich aroma and umami flavor, shiitake-bushi can simply be sprinkled over chilled tofu, vegetable dishes, or miso soup to add depth and fragrance.
It is also considered a gentle and versatile ingredient and can be used in a variety of everyday dishes.
Local Cuisine at the Sky Restaurant
The restaurant inside the facility serves dishes prepared with ingredients from Ryujin Village and the surrounding mountains. Popular choices include a Ryujin miso croquette set meal, local mountain-style dishes, and curry made with locally sourced game meat.
For visitors looking for a more elaborate meal, the reservation-only “Sky Plate” offers a Japanese kaiseki-style lunch featuring a selection of local ingredients.
Enjoying a meal while looking out over the vast mountain landscape makes the experience especially memorable.
Winter Snow and Rime Ice
Southern Wakayama is generally associated with a relatively warm climate, but the high elevation around Gomasan Sky Tower means that snowy winter landscapes are common here.
When temperatures and weather conditions are suitable, rime ice can form on trees, covering the forest in delicate white ice and creating an almost magical landscape.
Winter snow activities may also be offered from time to time, allowing families to enjoy activities such as sledding and building snowmen.
Winter Travel Considerations
Visitors should take extra care when traveling to the area in winter. Snow and icy road surfaces can occur, so vehicles should be equipped with winter tires or appropriate snow chains.
The facility may also close for the winter season, generally from December 1 through around the end of March. Because opening periods can vary depending on weather and operating conditions, checking the latest information before traveling is recommended.
Nearby Attractions
Ryujin Onsen
Approximately 30 minutes by car from the roadside station is Ryujin Onsen, one of Japan’s famous hot spring resorts and traditionally known as one of the “Three Beauties’ Hot Springs”.
The spring water is a sodium bicarbonate-rich hot spring known for its smooth sensation and long-standing reputation for being beneficial to the skin. After hiking, sightseeing, or driving through the mountains, soaking in the warm waters provides a relaxing way to refresh both body and mind.
Roadside Station Ryujin: Mokuzokukan
In the center of Ryujin Village, Roadside Station Ryujin, also known as Mokuzokukan, offers another opportunity to experience the local culture.
The facility makes extensive use of local timber, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy regional foods and specialties while exploring the surrounding area. A nearby suspension bridge also provides a pleasant place for a short walk.
How to Get There
Tanabe City Ryujin Gomasan Sky Tower Roadside Station can be reached by driving along the Koya-Ryujin Skyline on National Route 371.
The road is particularly popular as a scenic driving route from the Mount Koya area. The journey itself is part of the experience, with mountain forests and panoramic viewpoints appearing along the route.
Seasonal public transportation services may also operate, including buses connecting the area with Mount Koya and Ryujin. However, services can be limited, so visitors using public transportation should check the latest timetable and operating information in advance.
Discover the Natural Beauty of the Kii Mountains
Tanabe City Ryujin Gomasan Sky Tower Roadside Station is much more than a simple rest stop. It is a gateway to the natural landscapes, history, culture, food, and mountain traditions of the Kii Peninsula.
Visitors can enjoy spectacular views from the Sky Tower, seasonal forests, clear night skies, historic legends surrounding Mount Gomadanzan, and local specialties from Ryujin Village. The nearby mountains also provide opportunities for hiking and nature walks.
Whether you visit during the fresh greenery of spring, the cool forests of summer, the colorful foliage of autumn, or the snowy landscapes of winter, the area offers a different experience in every season.
For travelers exploring Mount Koya, the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes, or Ryujin Onsen, this mountain destination is an excellent place to pause and appreciate the spectacular scenery of the Kii Peninsula.
Standing on what is sometimes called the “roof of Kishu,” visitors can look across the vast mountain landscape and experience a quieter, more natural side of Wakayama—far from the busy cities and deep within the forests of the Kii Mountains.