Source: hisa (@hisa0808) - image reproduced with permission

Have you seen Japan’s “highway to heaven”?

Here at grape Japan, we have had many opportunities to introduce Japanese photographer Hisa's amazing images. Whether it's the Rising Dragon Valley, an incredible shot of the World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-Go blanketed in the snow, Hisa has a knack for conveying a sense of scale, incredible natural beauty, and being in the right place at the right time.

The talented photographer's dedication to the perfect shot was exemplified recently when he posted two incredible photos capturing what is something of a legend among photographers.

If you are at the right time of year and time of day at a particular spot in the town of Shari in Hokkaido 北海道斜里町, you can capture what can only be described as a "highway to heaven"

Reproduced with permission from Hisa (@Hisa0808)

Reproduced with permission from Hisa (@Hisa0808)

"I really wanted to see this so I actually waited a whole year, flew from Kansai, changed planes, drove 5 hours, and waited on location for another 6 hours to capture this scene. I must have a lot of spare time on my hands..."

In spite of his self-deprecating remarks, it safe to assume that most people seeing these breathtaking photos would agree that his efforts were truly worth it.

The road going completely straight towards the horizon to meet a sunset with gorgeous golden yellow and auburn shades almost looks like a "highway to heaven."

The only times you can see this scene are at sunset in autumn and spring. And as Hisa made clear, it is quite a trek to access Shari which is in the Western part of Shiretoko in Hokkaido, especially if you're coming from the Kansai area.

The photos elicited many plaudits, such as:

  • "How wonderful. It really looks like the road is extending to heaven."
  • "Looking at these photos gives me a feeling that this is almost holy. To see such a sight, I think the effort was worth it."
  • "This scenery really draws you in! I can't imagine what it must be like to witness such a thing. How amazing this is."

Be sure to follow Hisa on Twitter and Instagram for more scenic photography from around Japan.

By - grape Japan editorial staff.

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