Mount Shosha Ropeway, Cable car system at Mount Shosha, Himeji, Japan.
Mount Shosha Ropeway is an aerial tramway in Himeji that connects two stations by carrying passengers up the mountainside. The system uses two cabins that each hold dozens of passengers and transport them across the distance in just a few minutes.
The ropeway began operations in 1958, creating a new transportation link to the mountain summit for residents and visitors. This cable system made the temple grounds reachable for more people and opened up the mountainside.
The ropeway provides access to Engyo-ji Temple, a Buddhist complex at the mountain peak with traditional Japanese religious architecture. Visitors experience the spiritual purpose of this site, which remains central to local religious practice and pilgrimage.
The ride up the mountainside takes just a few minutes, making it easy to visit the temple at the top and return the same day. The journey is pleasant in good weather, but fog or rain can limit visibility during the ascent.
The ropeway is managed by a local bus company rather than a dedicated cable car operator, which is typical for smaller systems in Japan. The ascent offers expanding views of the surrounding forest and landscape, turning the short ride into a moment of quiet observation.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
