Koma Observatory Deck, Tsukuba

The Koma Observatory Deck stands at the summit of Mount Tsukuba in Ibaraki Prefecture, situated in the area known as Miyukigahara between the mountain's twin peaks of Mount Nantai and Mount Nyotai. Located directly beside the Mount Tsukuba Summit Station, this facility serves as a central gathering point for visitors arriving via the historic cable car system.

Mount Tsukuba has been historically celebrated alongside Mount Fuji, with the traditional saying "Mount Fuji to the west and Mount Tsukuba to the east". Standing at an elevation of 877 meters, the mountain is recognized as one of Japan's One Hundred Famous Mountains and has long been revered as a sacred peak in the Kanto region. The observatory provides visitors access to the panoramic vistas that have drawn pilgrims and travelers for centuries.

The observatory features three distinct levels: a souvenir shop on the first floor, a dining area with views of the Kanto Plain on the second floor, and a rooftop observation deck on the third floor. Visitors ascend via a narrow spiral staircase to reach the rooftop deck, where they can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. On clear days, the Tokyo skyline and even Mount Fuji become visible from this vantage point. The restaurant serves regional specialties including Tsukuba udon noodles, soba, and mountain cuisine.

Access to the Koma Observatory is free of charge. From the observatory, visitors can hike to either peak in approximately 15 minutes. The facility is particularly popular during autumn foliage season from early to late November, and serves as a viewing point for night illuminations and sunrise observations throughout the year.

From Tokyo Station, travelers can take a highway bus to Tsukuba Center Bus Terminal (approximately 1 hour, 1,180 yen one-way), then transfer to a shuttle bus to the mountain (approximately 40 minutes, 720 yen). The cable car operates from Miyawaki Station to the summit, with fares of 590 yen one-way or 1,070 yen round-trip for adults. The ropeway from Tsutsujigaoka Station costs 750 yen one-way or 1,300 yen round-trip for adults. The Tsukubasan Story ticket (4,000 yen for adults) provides combined access to highway bus, shuttle bus, cable car, and ropeway with significant savings. By car, the mountain is a 40-minute drive from Tsuchiura-Kita IC on the Joban Expressway.