A Panoramic View from Shimokita's Highest Peak, Overlooking Mutsu Bay and the Cityscape in Evening's Grand Display
About this spot
An observation platform located near the summit of Mount Kamabu (879m), the highest peak of the Shimokita Peninsula. Below spreads a vast panorama of Mutsu city and the calm waters of Mutsu Bay, and on clear days you can see all the way to the base of the peninsula. At dusk, both the city and bay bathe in soft crimson hues, offering a dramatic view perfect for concluding your day's journey. As evening falls, the lights of Mutsu city form the shape of a swallowtail butterfly in flight, which is why the night view is famously called the "Evening Swallowtail." The exhilarating drive up the mountain road known as the Kamafu Panorama Line, which continues from Osorezan Kaido, is an experience in itself, making this the perfect endpoint for completing your scenic loop around Shimokita.
Tips
About 30 minutes by car from Mutsu city via Osorezan Kaido and the Kamafu Panorama Line. There are sections with narrow roads, so be careful when passing other vehicles. The road to the observatory is closed in winter, so plan your visit for a snow-free season. The temperature is lower and winds are stronger near the mountaintop than in the city below, so bring a light jacket.
Best time to visit
Plan for 30-45 minutes. Dusk when the city and bay turn to soft colors offers the most spectacular views. It's also recommended to stay until after sunset to witness the "Evening Swallowtail" night view.
Access & map
〒035-0074 Taihei Arakawa, Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture
Model course featuring this spot
Shimokita Peninsula: Scenic Drive to Osorezan and Oma Tuna Paradise
Aomori
Explore features & model courses
Like this spot? Sign up free to save it to your own booklet as a plan or a want-to-go.