Find the Best Photography Spots on Mount Tsurumi in 2026

Mount Tsurumi offers some of the most stunning views in Beppu, Japan. Photographers flock here to capture the dramatic winter landscapes and city views. You will find several incredible best photography spots on Mount Tsurumi that define the region. This guide will help you plan your photography shots for 2026.

Winter transforms this volcanic peak into a white wonderland of ice. The mountain stands at 1,375 meters above sea level. You can reach the top quickly using the Kintetsu Beppu Ropeway. Exploring this area requires preparation for the cold and snowy conditions. Check out our Beppu winter travel guide 2026 for more trip planning advice.

The Kintetsu Beppu Ropeway Cabin View

For the most up-to-date details, check Lonely Planet Beppu Guide before you go.

For the most up-to-date details, check Beppu City Official Website before you go.

Your photography journey begins before you even reach the mountain summit. The ropeway cabin features large glass windows for clear viewing. You can capture the steep mountain slopes as you rise rapidly. The trees below often look like a carpet of white during January.

Try to stand at the back of the cabin during your ascent. This position gives you a clear view of the lower station. Focus your camera on the contrasting colors of the forest. The dark evergreens look striking against the fresh powder snow. You must follow these Mount Tsurumi winter ropeway tips for the best boarding experience.

The ride takes approximately ten minutes from bottom to top. Use a fast shutter speed to avoid blur from cabin movement. Reflections on the glass can be a challenge for many photographers. Polarizing filters help reduce glare from the window surfaces during sunny days. Place your lens close to the glass to minimize unwanted reflections.

Early morning light provides the best shadows on the mountain ridges. The sun hits the slopes at a low angle before noon. You can see the volcanic steam rising from Beppu city below. This creates a perfect atmospheric shot for your 2026 winter portfolio.

Panoramic Views of Beppu Bay and Oita City

The main observation deck offers a vast view of the coastline. You can see the entire arc of Beppu Bay from here. The blue water contrasts beautifully with the snowy mountain foreground. This is one of the best photography spots on Mount Tsurumi for wide shots.

On clear days, you might see all the way to Shikoku Island. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the landscape. Include some of the mountain railings to add depth to your image. This framing technique helps the viewer feel like they are standing there.

Wait for the city lights to flicker on during the late afternoon. The transition from day to night offers magical blue hour opportunities. You will need a tripod to keep your long exposures sharp. Keep in mind that the ropeway has specific evening operating hours. Always check the schedule before you plan a late sunset shoot.

Winter air is usually very clear and crisp in Oita Prefecture. This clarity allows you to see distant details with great precision. You can spot the famous steam vents of the Hells of Beppu. Capturing this industrial and natural mix is truly unique to this region.

Capturing the Magical Rime Ice Forest Path

Rime ice is a rare weather phenomenon known locally as Muhyo. It occurs when water droplets in the fog freeze onto branches. This creates intricate white crystals that look like delicate glass art. The forest near the summit station is the best place to find it.

Walking through the frozen forest feels like entering a different world. Use a macro lens to capture the details of the ice needles. The white ice against a deep blue sky looks very dramatic. You should read about seeing rime ice on Mount Tsurumi to time your visit. Success depends heavily on specific temperature and humidity levels.

The best time for this is usually between January and February. Cold winds from the north bring the moisture needed for ice. Morning is the ideal time before the sun melts the crystals. Bring extra batteries because the cold drains them very fast. Keep your spare batteries inside your jacket to keep them warm.

Avoid touching the branches as rime ice is very fragile. It can fall off with the slightest bump or wind gust. Position yourself so the sun backlight illuminates the frozen crystals. This makes the ice appear to glow from within your photos.

The Summit Torii Gate and Tsurumi Shrine

A bright red Torii gate stands proudly at the mountain summit. This cultural landmark provides a perfect focal point for landscape photos. The red wood looks stunning when covered in a layer of snow. It represents the spiritual connection people have with this mountain.

Compose your shot with the Torii gate in the lower third. Let the vast sky or snow-covered peak fill the rest. This creates a sense of isolation and peacefulness in your work. Many photographers visit this spot for traditional Japanese winter imagery.

Small shrines are scattered around the summit area for exploration. You will find statues of the Seven Gods of Good Fortune. These stone figures often wear red hats and bibs in winter. They add a charming and local touch to your photo collection. You can find them along the easy walking paths near the top.

The hike from the ropeway station to the summit is short. It takes about fifteen minutes on a well-marked path. Be careful of slippery ice on the stone steps and walkways. Wear crampons or spikes on your boots for better photographic stability. A fall could damage your expensive camera gear and lenses.

Practical Gear Tips for Mountain Photography

Winter photography on Mount Tsurumi requires specific clothing and gear. Temperatures at the summit are much lower than in Beppu city. Expect strong winds that can make it feel even colder. Wear layers of wool and weatherproof outer shells for protection.

A sturdy tripod is essential for sharp landscape and vista shots. The wind can cause camera shake if your tripod is light. Hang your camera bag from the center hook for extra weight. This trick keeps your equipment steady during long exposure moments.

Use a lens cloth frequently to remove moisture from your glass. Snowflakes and condensation can easily ruin a great composition. Keep your camera in a sealed bag before going back inside. This prevents fogging when the gear hits the warm ropeway station. Slow temperature transitions will protect your internal electronics from damage.

Gloves with touch-sensitive fingertips are a great investment for 2026. You can adjust your settings without exposing your skin to frostbite. Physical comfort will help you stay out longer for better shots. Good photography requires patience and thermal endurance in these harsh conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mount Tsurumi is a dream destination for any landscape photographer visiting Beppu. From the rime ice to the bay views, every corner offers beauty. Plan your trip carefully to capture the prime winter conditions in 2026. We hope you find the best photography spots on Mount Tsurumi during your visit. Share your shots and enjoy the stunning natural wonders of Japan.

Key Takeaways

• Visit in early morning for the best rime ice conditions.
• Use a polarizing filter to shoot through ropeway windows.
• Carry extra batteries kept warm inside your winter jacket.
• Wear crampons for safety while walking on frozen summit paths.

Related reads: polarcityguide.com, kintetsu beppu ropeway winter opening hours.