Photo/Illutration The Fujiyama Twin Terrace observation deck installed on the Shindo-toge pass in Fuefuki, Yamanashi Prefecture, provides panoramic views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko on a sunny day. (Provided by the Fuefuki city government)

FUEFUKI, Yamanashi Prefecture--For those who never tire of the chance of panoramic views of Mount Fuji, a new observation deck is now operating in the scenic Shindo-toge pass in the city's Ashigawacho-Kamiashigawa district.

The Fujiyama Twin Terrace, located at about 1,600 meters above sea level on the west face of 1,793-meter Mount Kurodake, is open to the public until Nov. 28.

The pass is renowned among climbers and photographers as a viewing spot over Lake Kawaguchiko against the backdrop of Japan's tallest peak, but is not so well known among the public.

In hopes of encouraging tourism, the city government spent about 165 million yen ($1.5 million) to construct and install an observation deck in two locations and a 250-meter walking trail. The project started last year.

"My hope is that it will serve as a new sightseeing spot connecting Lake Kawaguchiko and the Isawa onsen hot spring resort and attract hordes of tourists," said Mayor Masaki Yamashita.

The pass has remained closed to traffic this season, although a free bus shuttle service operates at one-hour intervals on weekdays except Tuesday and at 30-minute intervals on weekends and holidays.

The first service leaves at 9 a.m. The last service starts at 3 p.m. The buses make several stops until it reaches its destination.

For more information, visit the city's website at (https://www.city.fuefuki.yamanashi.jp/kanko/sangyo/spot/fujiyamatwinterrace.html).

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