Gujo Observatory

This observation deck stands at an elevation of 349 meters, up the mountainside from the town center of Shikokuchūō in Ehime Prefecture. The town spreads out below, with the Seto Inland Sea beyond it, opening into a panorama of almost 180 degrees. By day it looks out over calm sea and mountains; by night the lights of the city and its factories shimmer across the view, making it one of Shikoku's finest night-view spots.

Admission and Hours

• Admission is free
• The observation deck is open at all hours

A Panorama of Almost 180 Degrees

Below lies the town center of Shikokuchūō, with the Seto Inland Sea opening up straight ahead. The lights run from Sangawa and Toyooka in the west to the center of Mishima in the east, forming a panorama with almost nothing to block the view. Because the deck is not especially high, the town feels close, and each individual light stands out clearly.

Factory Night Views of a Papermaking City

Shikokuchūō is one of Japan's leading papermaking cities. Along the coast stand factories such as Daiō Paper, Ehime Paper, and Marusumi Paper, their lights glowing in a band as they run through the night. The warm light of the town mingled with the strong white light of the factories is a sight you will find nowhere else.

Recognized as a Night View Heritage Site

It was chosen as one of Japan's Top 100 Night Views in 2004 and recognized as a Japan Night View Heritage site in 2010. The honor reflects the scale of the scene, taking in the city lights, the sea, and even the outline of the mountains behind, all at once. From autumn into winter, when the air is clear, there are days when you can see all the way to the lights on the far shore.

An Observation Deck Lit in Orange

The observation deck looks much as it did half a century ago, and after dark its railings glow in orange and white. In 2014, indirect lighting was added to light the ground underfoot, and the deck was renovated with fewer steps. The lights are not on all night, so it is worth checking the lighting hours before you go.

Facilities and Access

There is parking for about 15 cars, with a viewing space and a small pavilion on its north side. Simple restrooms are available, and the view is right there the moment you step out of the car. By car, it is about 20 minutes from the Mishima-Kawanoe Interchange on the Matsuyama Expressway via National Route 11 and Route 319, and at night it is best to drive slowly and watch for oncoming cars on the mountain road.