Minoyama Park (sea of clouds viewpoint)

There are three observation decks, each facing a different mountain: the entrance deck looks at Mt. Buko and the Chichibu city area, the East Deck at Mt. Ogiri and a highland pasture, and the Summit Deck at Mt. Ryokami and the Okuchichibu range. All are a 1–5 minute walk from the entrance plaza.

From Hanazono IC, take Route 140 toward Chichibu for about 20 km, turn left at the Minano Town Hall entrance, and drive about 7 km more. The prefecture says the sea of clouds forms in the Chichibu basin, which cools quickly at night and has little wind, most often on a clear morning with little wind after a rainy day. November has historically been a frequent month, and in October–November autumn leaves and clouds appear together.

The park has no outdoor lighting, and early mornings at the summit are much colder than in town. A second road, which the prefecture lists as the approach from the Hanno side, leads down to the Minoyama-iriguchi intersection on Route 140.