BEST PARAGLIDING SITES IN JAPAN

Kawagutiko

Located at an altitude of 1262 meters with a height difference of 415 meters, this paragliding site is relatively new, possibly established around 2020. It is occasionally used and offers opportunities for thermalling and some cross-country flights. This site appears to be a walk-and-fly spot, providing a good view of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko. For more detailed information, you might want to contact the Nishitokyo Paragliding School nearby. You can visit their website at [Nishitokyo Paragliding School](https://nishitokyo-para.jp/) or check out the [Japan Hang & Paragliding Federation](https://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/area/2022area/yamanashi_eng.html). For weather conditions, you can refer to [Windfinder's forecast for Kawaguchiko](https://www.windfinder.com/forecast/kawaguchiko).

View spot

Cape Chinen Misaki Koen Flight Area

Chinen-Misaki Koen Flight Area in Okinawa, Japan, offers a unique paragliding experience in a well-maintained park operated by the village of Chinen-son, Shimajiri-gun. The site is accessible by car, approximately one hour from Naha, and is open year-round with no closures. The launch site, Chinen Koen Takeoff, faces multiple directions (E, SE, S, SW) and is situated at an altitude of 50 meters above sea level. The terrain is flat, and the launch area can accommodate up to three paragliders at a time. However, there is no launch deck provided. Pilots should be cautious of a 1.2-meter high fence placed in front of the launch area. Flight conditions are primarily ridge soaring, with a 100% chance of straight flights to the landing zone (LZ). The LZ is located 200 meters from the launch site, with an altitude difference of 50 meters. The landing zone itself is flat, measuring 10 meters by 100 meters, and is situated just 1 meter above sea level. Pilots should be aware of a 2-meter high seawall at the back of the sandy beach in the LZ. The site is suitable for novice pilots (ParaPro stage 2) under the supervision of an instructor. There is no visitor fee, but guide fees apply depending on the group size. The site does not accept cross-country flights. For those interested in local amenities, the Sunrise Restaurant/Hotel offers good lunch options at reasonable prices and is just a 5-minute walk from the site. Additionally, the Chinen Marine Leisure Center provides glass-bottom boat tours. Support from other pilots is necessary to cross the fence during takeoff, and powered paragliders are prohibited by the village. For more information, you can visit: - [Blue Sky Okinawa](http://www.bluesky-okinawa.com/) - [Okinawa Soaring PDF](http://www.bound2leap.com/media/okinawa_soaring.pdf) - [Paraglide Okinawa Blog](http://paraglide-okinawa.blogspot.de/) - [JHF Site Information](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/english/site/site/Okinawa.html#anchor2003okinawa08) Contact Blue Sky for further details: - Address: 1943 Kuba, Nakagusuku-son, Nakagami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan 901-2401 - Phone: 098-942-3600 - Email: fly@bluesky-okinawa.com - Check-in Desk: 09:00～22:00

View spot

-HG Shakushiyama Flight Area

Shakushiyama Flight Area is located in Oshino-mura, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture. The area is known for its clear days, offering excellent flying conditions. The altitude record here is an impressive 3,400 meters. Access to the site is convenient. By car, you can take the Fuji-Kawaguchiko route of the Chuo expressway and then the Higashi-Fujigoko highway, with an 8-minute ride from the Yamanaka-ko ramp. If you prefer public transport, take the train to Fuji-yoshida Station on the Fujikyu Line, followed by a 25-minute bus ride. The flying season is year-round, and the Oshino Sky Sports Club operates an active hang glider school here. The club is located at 2661 Uchino, Oshinomura, Minami-tsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan 401-0512. You can contact them via phone at 0555-84-7561 or email at hangglider@oshinoskysports.com. More information is available on their website: [Oshino Sky Sports Club](http://www.oshinoskysports.com). The check-in desk is open from 09:00 to 19:00. Visitors need a JHF-P or IPPI SafePro 4 rating or greater. Those with a JHF-C or IPPI SafePro 3 rating can fly if accompanied by an instructor. Membership fees are JY31,500 per year with an enrollment fee of JY52,500. Visitor fees are JY3,150 per day, with additional charges for facility maintenance (JY630) and entrance (JY1,500). The takeoff area is at an altitude of 1,350 meters above sea level, with a 22° slope facing south. It can accommodate up to 15 gliders. The GPS coordinates for the takeoff area are N35.480435, E138.864757. Flight conditions include a 50% chance of thermal soaring, 10% ridge soaring, and 40% sled rides. The altitude difference between takeoff and landing is 360 meters, and the distance is 1,800 meters. The landing area has a capacity of 60m x 300m and features a gentle 25:1 slope from northeast to southwest. The landing area is at an altitude of 1,000 meters above sea level. The GPS coordinates for the landing area are N35.464113, E138.863561. A shuttle and mono-rack service are available for transport between the landing and takeoff areas. For cross-country flights, a JHF-XC or IPPI SafePro 5 rating is required. Nearby attractions include Mt. Fuji, the Fuji Five Lakes, Fujikyu Highland Amusement Park, hot springs, and Oshino Hakkai. The site also offers tandem flights for beginners and flying lessons, with takeoff assisted by towing.

View spot

Lake Kizaki Kizakiko

Hakuba, Japan offers a paragliding site at an elevation of 1281 meters. This location is regularly used and is known for its nice thermal soaring conditions. The site record for distance is 2.5 km. For a visual experience, you can check out these videos: - [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yOfrXZ_cLik) - [Video 2](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cPYlByxM7A) For more detailed information and booking options, visit [Activity Japan](https://en.activityjapan.com/publish/feature/449).

View spot

Tsukuba Niihari Komachi Skylove PG shool

Niihari Komachi Paradise is a paragliding site located in Ibaraki Prefecture, close to Tokyo. The site offers moderate thermals and a spacious landing field, making it ideal for a relaxing flight. **Address:** Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan **Directions:** - **By Car:** 10 minutes from Tsuchiura ramp of Joban Expressway. - **By Train:** Pickup available at Tsuchiura Station of JR Joban Line (45 minutes by limited express from Ueno Station). **Season:** Year-round (Closed on Thursdays) **School:** Niihari Komachi Paraglider School - **Bilingual Staff:** Yes, Japanese/English - **Contact:** - **TEL:** 029-862-5355 - **Email:** info@komachipara.com - **URL:** [Niihari Komachi Paraglider School](http://www.komachipara.com/) **Check-in Desk:** 09:00~18:00 **Pilot Rating:** Non-members cannot fly, but trial flights are available. - **Membership:** JY20,000/year (+ area fee JY1,500/day) - **Visitor Fee:** JY3,500/day **Launch Sites:** - **Names:** K1, K2 - **Orientation:** E, SE - **Terrain:** Slope - **Altitude:** 300m ASL - **Distance to LZ:** 1,200m **Landing Zone:** - **Area:** 100m x 100m - **Terrain:** Flat - **Altitude:** 50m ASL **Access from LZ to Launch:** 12 minutes by car **Cross Country Flight:** Accepted **Facilities:** Tourist facilities, farm produce shop, and handmade soba noodle shop within a 2-minute walk from the LZ. Flush toilets available at both launch and landing zones. **Additional Takeoff:** - **Wind:** NE - **Coordinates:** 36.1730N, 140.154E - **Elevation:** 352m (Height: 316m, GR: 3.86) **Parking:** - **Takeoff:** Tsukuba, View park of Asahi pass (GPS: 36.1732 N, 140.162 E) - **Landing:** Komachi community space (GPS: 36.1644 N, 140.16 E) For more detailed information, visit [Niihari Komachi Paraglider School](http://www.komachipara.com/) or the [Japan Hang & Paragliding Federation](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/english/site/site/Ibaraki.html#anchor2003ibaraki02).

View spot

Asagiri Inogashira Wing Kiss 1 Nishi-Fuji テイクオフ

The Asogun area, also known as Asagiri Kogen Inokashira, is a popular paragliding and hang gliding site in Japan. It offers good soaring conditions and some opportunities for cross-country flights. The site is accessible by car, and a shuttle service is available for convenience. Located in the Asagiri Kogen highland of Shizuoka Prefecture, this site provides a spectacular view of Fujisan (Mt. Fuji) year-round. It is approximately a 35-minute drive from the Fuji Ramp of the Tomei Expressway or the Kawaguchiko Ramp of the Chuo Expressway. The flying season is year-round, and there is a paragliding school named Sky Asagiri on-site. However, bilingual staff are not available. For more information, you can contact Sky Asagiri at 0544-52-0304 or via email at para_ha_asagiri@skyasa.com. Their website is http://www.skyasa.com/. The takeoff point, Inokashira Takeoff, faces east and has a 10° slope. It can accommodate up to three paragliders at a time and is situated at an altitude of 1,100 meters above sea level. The GPS coordinates for the takeoff are N35°22′21.20″ E138°32′48.20″. Flight conditions at this site include a mix of thermal soaring (50%), ridge soaring (30%), and sled rides (20%). The altitude difference between takeoff and landing is 310 meters, with a distance of 200 meters between the two points. The landing area is flat, with dimensions of 150m x 200m, and is located at an altitude of 700 meters above sea level. The GPS coordinates for the landing area are N35°22′13.50″ E138°33′15.50″. The shuttle service takes about 10 minutes to travel from the landing area back to the takeoff point. Cross-country flights are not accepted at this site. Nearby attractions include Shiraito-no Taki waterfall, Kaze-no-yu hot spa, Fuji Safari Park, and Fujikyu Highland amusement park. For more details, you can visit the following links: - [Shizuoka Paragliding Areas](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/area/2010area/shizuoka_eng.htm#anchor2010shizuoka01) - [Sky Asagiri](http://www.skyasa.com/) - [Additional Information](http://www.d6.dion.ne.jp/~nisifuji/index.htm) Watch a video of the site here: [Vimeo](https://vimeo.com/92541148).

View spot

Saitama Nagara area

Located at an elevation of 504 meters, this paragliding site is rarely used but offers potential for cross-country (XC) flights. Information about the site is limited. For more details, you can visit the following links: [Hangpara XC League](http://www.hangpara.jp/pgc/xc_league/pxc/listup.cgi?year=2017) [Komachi Paragliding Area](http://www.komachipara.com/area_saitama) [Nagatoro Paraglider Club](https://sites.google.com/site/nagatoroparagliderclub/contact-me)

View spot

Sky Wonderland Tsugaike Plateau Han-no-ki

Sky Wonderland Tsugaike is a paragliding site located in Tsugaike Kogen, Otari-mura, Kita-Azumi-gun, Nagano Prefecture, Japan. This site is suitable for pilots of all levels, from beginners to cross-country enthusiasts. The takeoff and landing areas are designed to be stress-free, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed flight experience. To get there by car, take National Route 148 to Oike Station, then drive 4 km west from the skiing ground signboard. If you prefer public transportation, the school provides a pickup service from Hakuba-Oike Station on the Oito Line. The flying season runs from April to November. The Tsugaike Paraglider School operates here, offering training and support. You can contact them at 0261-83-2521 (off-season 0261-82-3161) or via email at tugapara@janis.or.jp. More information is available on their website: [Tsugaike Paraglider School](http://www.janis.or.jp/users/tugapara). Check-in is between 09:00 and 10:00. The site requires a membership fee of JY1,2000 per year or a visitor fee of JY2,000 per day. Pilots need at least a ParaPro stage 2 rating, supervised by an intermediate or higher-level pilot. The Han-no-ki Takeoff faces multiple directions (N, NE, E, SE, S, SW) and is situated on a slope at an altitude of 1,450 meters above sea level. The launch area measures 50m x 100m. Pilots are advised to produce a good run to increase speed for a successful takeoff. Flight conditions include 40% thermal soaring, 20% ridge soaring, and 40% straight to the landing zone. The altitude difference between the launch and landing zone is 500 meters, with a distance of 2,300 meters. Thermals are often found along the gondola route, so caution is advised when flying above it. The landing zone is a 200m x 400m sloped field at an altitude of 950 meters above sea level. Pilots should aim for a shorter final approach leg due to the sloped terrain. Access from the landing zone to the launch site involves a 15-minute walk followed by a 15-minute gondola ride, totaling 30 minutes. Cross-country flights are accepted, but registration and presentation of a cross-country pilot certificate are required. For more details, visit the [Japan Hang & Paragliding Federation](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/english/site/site/Nagano.html#anchor2003nagano09). Watch a video of the site here: [YouTube Video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vUL_xRpqKxc).

View spot

Hakuba Paratopia Goryu Goryuu

Hakuba Goryu in Japan is a thermal soaring area with an altitude of 1500 meters and a height difference of 800 meters. The flying season spans from mid-April to mid-November. The site faces east and is located on the north side of the Japan Alps, making it a cool place during summer. It's advisable to bring an extra jacket for your flight. Thermals become active around noon, so it's recommended to fly in the early morning, especially if it's your first time. The airspace is wide, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without much concern for other aircraft, but be cautious when maneuvering. The landing zone is a flat area of 100m x 150m at an altitude of 750 meters. Be aware that the wind direction can change due to thermal activity, especially during landing. The take-off point is at the top of the telecabins 'Hakuba Goryu Escal Plaza,' and the landing is in a field near the bottom of the telecabins. Access is convenient via train and bus or car. For booking flights and additional information, contact Field Joy Paragliding School at 0261-72-6022 or visit their website: [Field Joy Paragliding School](http://fieldjoy.jp/hakuba). The site is also known for its hot springs, which are a great way to relax after a flight. During winter, the area serves as a ski resort with many charming pensions. For more details, you can visit: - [Paratopia](https://www.paratopia.jp/) - [Monkey Para](http://www.monkeypara.com/areas/hakuba-goryu) - [Hakuba Paratopia Goryu](http://homepage2.nifty.com/paratopia-goryu) - [JHF Site Information](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/english/site/site/Nagano.html#anchor2003nagano13) The site is suitable for pilots with a ParaPro Stage 4 (Intermediate) rating and above. Membership costs JY20,000 per year, with a visitor fee of JY2,500 per day.

View spot

Ohsayama Flight Area Mount Osa Osayama

Osayama Flight Area, located in Osa-osakabe, Niimi-shi, Okayama Prefecture, Japan, is one of the largest paragliding sites in West Japan. The site is known for its favorable soaring conditions and the possibility of cross-country flights. The main wind direction is southeast, making it ideal for regular use. The site features two takeoff points: the Main Takeoff and the North Takeoff. The Main Takeoff, with a mild slope, is suitable for southeast winds and can accommodate 2-3 gliders side by side. The North Takeoff, with a cliff terrain, is used for north winds. The takeoff altitude is 880 meters above sea level. The landing zone, located 850 meters from the takeoff, has a capacity of 200m x 140m and is slightly downhill. On clear days, the landing zone can become a source of thermal activity, making conditions bumpy. Access to the site is convenient. By car, it is 10 minutes from the Osa ramp of the Chugoku Expressway, 30 minutes from the Niimi ramp, and 40 minutes from the Kuse ramp of the Yonago Expressway. By train, it is a 25-minute walk from Osakabe Station on the JR Kishin Line. The flying season is year-round, except for Thursdays. The N.C. Osa Paraglider School operates at the site, offering training and support. However, the staff is not bilingual. The school can be contacted at info@ncosa.com or by phone at 0867-98-3400. More information can be found on their [website](http://ncosa.com/ncosa/). Visitors need to have a JHF-NP rating or an IPPI ParaPro 3 or greater. The membership fee is JY15,750 per year plus JY300 per flight, while the visitor fee is JY1,575 per day plus JY300 per flight. For more details, you can visit the [JHF website](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/area/2010area/okayama_eng.htm#anchor2010okayama02) or check out photos on [Flickr](http://www.flickr.com/photos/taggi/sets). Nearby attractions include the Niimi-Chiya-onsen hot spring and Yubara-onsenkyo hot spa.

View spot

Asagiri Inogashira Wing Kiss 2 Nishi-Fuji テイクオフ

Asagiri Kogen Inokashira is a popular paragliding and hang gliding site located in the Asagiri Kogen highland, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. This site offers a spectacular view of Fujisan (Mt. Fuji) throughout the year, making it a favorite among pilots. Access to the site is convenient, with a 35-minute drive from either the Fuji Ramp of the Tomei Expressway or the Kawaguchiko Ramp of the Chuo Expressway. The flying season is year-round, and there is a paragliding school named Sky Asagiri available on-site. However, the staff is not bilingual. For more information, you can contact Sky Asagiri at 499 Fumoto, Fujinomiya-shi, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan 418-0109, or via phone at 0544-52-0304. Their website is [Sky Asagiri](http://www.skyasa.com/). The takeoff point, Inokashira Takeoff, is situated at an altitude of 1,100 meters above sea level with GPS coordinates N35°22′21.20″ E138°32′48.20″. The takeoff area has a 10° slope and can accommodate up to three paragliders at a time. The direction for takeoff is east. The landing area is flat, with a capacity of 150m x 200m, located at an altitude of 700 meters above sea level. The GPS coordinates for the landing area are N35°22′13.50″ E138°33′15.50″. A shuttle service is available to transport pilots from the landing area back to the takeoff point, which takes about 10 minutes. The site is known for good soaring conditions, with thermal soaring accounting for 50% of flights, ridge soaring for 30%, and sled rides for 20%. However, cross-country flights are not accepted at this site. Nearby attractions include Shiraito-no Taki waterfall, Kaze-no-yu hot spa, Fuji Safari Park, and Fujikyu Highland amusement park. For more details, you can visit [Shizuoka Paragliding Area](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/area/2010area/shizuoka_eng.htm#anchor2010shizuoka01). Another nearby paragliding site is Asagiri - Wing Kiss, located on the same mountain but with different takeoff and landing areas. More information can be found at [Paragliding 365](http://www.paragliding365.com).

View spot

Nagatoro Area

Nagatoro Paraglider Club is a volunteer-operated club located in the scenic Nagatoro tourist resort in Saitama Prefecture, Japan. The site is occasionally used for soaring flights and is open on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. On some weekdays, members may also open the area for flying. The launch site is situated at an altitude of approximately 460 meters above sea level, with a landing zone at 130 meters above sea level. The distance from the take-off (TO) to the landing (LD) is about 1,200 meters, with a vertical drop of 430 meters. The landing area is a bit slanted and covers 3,000 square meters. The site offers a mix of thermal soaring (50%), ridge soaring (20%), and sled rides (30%). The terrain and conditions make it suitable for pilots with a JHF-P or IPPI ParaPro 4 rating or higher. For cross-country flights, a JHF-XC or IPPI ParaPro 5 rating is required. Access to the site is convenient. By car, it is a 20-minute drive from the Hanazono ramp of the Kan'etsu Expressway. For those traveling by train, there is a pick-up service available at Hagure Station on the Chichibu Railway. The Teada Paraglider School, the only paragliding school in the area, offers training and has bilingual staff (Japanese/English). The school is located at 522-1 Aza-Otsuki, Yanase, Nagatoro-machi, Chichibu-gun, Saitama Prefecture, Japan 369-1301. You can contact them at TEL 050-3507-7383 or via email at teada@airkassy.com. For more information, you can visit the Nagatoro Paraglider Club's website: [Nagatoro Paraglider Club](https://sites.google.com/site/nagatoroparagliderclub/home) and [Contact Page](https://sites.google.com/site/nagatoroparagliderclub/contact-me). Additional details about the area can be found on the Japan Hang & Paragliding Federation's website: [JHF Saitama Area](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/area/2010area/saitama_eng.htm#anchor2010saitama01).

View spot

Sky Area Keihoku

Sky Area Keihoku is a paragliding site located in Japan, accessible within 40 minutes from Kyoto City. The site offers a spacious landing field with no obstacles, making it stress-free for pilots. The club house is roomy and clean, providing accommodation for overnight stays (remember to bring your sleeping bag). The launch site, Tendosan, has two takeoff points facing north. The terrain is a moderate slope, making takeoff relatively easy. The best wind conditions for launching are from the northwest and north. The launch altitude is 630 meters above sea level, and the landing zone is at 250 meters above sea level, giving an altitude difference of 380 meters. The distance between the launch and landing zone is 1,000 meters. Thermal activity can start as early as 11:00 AM, and the site can become windy, requiring good reverse launch skills. The flight conditions include thermal soaring (20%), ridge soaring (30%), and straight flights to the landing zone (20%). The site is occasionally used, and small cross-country flights are possible. Access to the takeoff area is restricted and requires contacting the flight school due to private roads, locked gates, and dirt roads that necessitate a 4x4 vehicle. Parking is available at the club house. The landing zone is a large area by the river, but pilots should be cautious of a community cable for TV broadcasts on the west side. It is only a few minutes' walk back to the school or club house from the landing zone. For more information, visit the [Sky Area Keihoku Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/pgs.keihoku/) or the [JHF site](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/english/site/site/Kyoto.html#anchor2003kyoto01). The site is open year-round but closed on Mondays (or Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday). The Paraglider School Keihoku offers instruction, and bilingual staff (Japanese/English) are available by appointment. Contact Information: - Address: 33-1 Koaza Naka Sujiura, Oaza Toh, Keihoku-cho, Kitakuwada-gun, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan 601-0321 - Phone: 0771-53-7650 - Email: info@sky-keihoku.jp - Website: [Sky Area Keihoku](http://www.sky-keihoku.jp) Pilot Rating: Intermediate (ParaPro stage 4) and above. Beginners or novices must contact the school in advance for supervision. Membership and Fees: - Annual Membership: JY12,000/year (+ area fee JY500 + pickup charge JY500) - Visitor Fee: JY2,000/day (+ pickup charge JY500) For detailed directions and additional information, refer to the [JHF page](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/english/site/site/Kyoto.html#anchor2003kyoto01).

View spot

Mount Fuji Summit

The site is situated at an altitude of 3400-3700 meters. It has a few flight logs available, primarily from the northwest and northeast sides. This location is known for hike-and-fly (climb-and-fly) activities. However, it is not clear whether flying here is legally permitted. For more information on legal flying sites, you may want to check local regulations or consult with local paragliding clubs.

View spot

Matsuda Yamazaki

Located in Kanagawa, Japan, the paragliding site managed by Yasuo Yamazaki offers a launch height of 490 meters. This site is regularly used and provides opportunities for soaring and cross-country (XC) flights. The site record stands at 40.8 km. The Tanzawa Sky Club, based in Hadano City, Kanagawa Prefecture, operates primarily in the 'Area Tanzawa,' which includes notable mountains such as Oyama and Nabeyama. The club maintains cooperative relations with the area but does not engage in sales activities. They also organize expeditions and participate in competitions nationwide. Access to 'Area Tanzawa' is convenient from various parts of the Kanto region, including Tokyo. However, due to the complex topography and conditions, the area requires a certain level of experience and skill. As a result, visitor flights are not permitted. Prospective flyers must complete three enrollment flights (course flights) before they can continue flying in the area. Membership options include annual or day memberships. For more information on licensing and entry requirements, please visit the following links: [Japan Hang and Paragliding Federation Licensing Information](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/support/licence_eng.html) [Tanzawa Sky Club](http://tanzawa-sky-club.com/) For a visual experience, check out these videos: [Video 1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80dibYaN7pI) [Video 2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjwo01Ygvh0)

View spot

Mount Myougi sky parki Myogi

Myougi Sky Park is a paragliding area and school located in Tomioka, home to the World Heritage Site, Tomioka Silk Mill. The park offers a variety of courses for beginners, all provided by a JHF-registered school, ensuring your safety. Licensed pilots can enjoy free flights at reasonable rates. The site is occasionally used and offers soaring opportunities, with the possibility of cross-country (XC) flights. The take-off point is at an elevation of 566 meters. Access to Myougi Sky Park is convenient, just 15 minutes from the Matsuida Myogi IC. Follow prefectural road 196, pass 'Myogi Shrine,' and stop before reaching 'Sakuranosato.' For navigation, use the following coordinates for the reception desk: N36.279482, E138.760484 (geodetic datum WGS84). Address: Myougi Sky Park 〒379-0208 448-162, Myogimachisugahara, Tomioka-shi, Gunma Contact: 090-3112-2203 For more information, visit: http://www.hangpara.jp/pgc/xc_league/pxc/listup.cgi?year=2017 http://www.tomioka-silk.jp.e.wv.hp.transer.com/spot/sightseeing/detail/paraglider.html http://www.miyogi.jp/

View spot

Dodairasan Flight Area Mount Dodaira Observatory

Dodairasan Flight Area is conveniently located just an hour and a half from Tokyo. It features two launch sites suitable for south and west winds, making it accessible for year-round paragliding. The site is situated in Shiroishi, Higashi Chichibu-mura, Chichibu-gun, and Shobudaira, Ohno, Tokigawa-mura, Hiki-gun, Saitama Prefecture. For those traveling by car, it's a 40-minute drive from the Tsurugashima ramp of the Kan'etsu Expressway. If you prefer public transportation, pick-up services are available from Mizuhodai Station on the Tobu Tojo Line and Minami Otsuka Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line. The site is open year-round but closes on rainy days. Dodaira Skypark Paraglider School operates here, offering bilingual staff in Japanese/English and Japanese/Korean. The school provides training for pilots at SafePro Stage 3 (Novice) under the supervision of SafePro Stage 4 (Intermediate) and above. The South Area launch faces south and features a flat slope, while the West Area faces west and has a flat slope with a space of 40m x 160m for top landing. The launch altitude is 870m above sea level, with a landing zone at 420m ASL. The distance from launch to landing zone is approximately 1,500m. Flight conditions include thermal soaring (50%), ridge soaring (30%), and straight flights to the landing zone (20%). The landing zone terrain is a mix of flat and moderate slopes, making it easier to approach in the West Area along a straight path. Access from the landing zone to the launch site takes about 15 minutes by car. Dodairasan is one of the few areas in the Kanto region that offers favorable flight conditions during the winter season, from autumn through early spring. For more information, visit [Dodaira Skypark](http://dd-skypark.com/) or [JHF Saitama](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/english/site/site/Saitama.html#anchor2003saitama02). Contact: Dodaira Skypark Paraglider School Address: Shobudaira, Oaza Ohno, Tokigawa-mura, Hiki-gun, Saitama Prefecture, Japan 354-0021 Phone: 0493-67-1733 Email: info@skypark.oc.to

View spot

Mikkabi Hamanako Flight Park

Hamanako Flight Park is a paragliding site in Japan, offering a stunning view of Lake Hamanako. It is located just 3 minutes by car from the Mikkabi Ramp of the Tomei Expressway, making it easily accessible. The site is open year-round, except on Thursdays (unless it's a national holiday). The Hamanako Paraglider School operates here, providing training and support. The school has bilingual staff and offers services in English. The launch area, known as No.1 Takeoff, faces south and is situated on a slope at an altitude of 400 meters above sea level. The launch area covers 1,500 square meters but does not have a launch deck. This site is beginner-friendly, though pilots should be cautious of strong thermals between 12:00 and 14:00. Flight conditions include 40% thermal soaring, 40% ridge soaring, and 20% straight flights to the landing zone. The altitude difference between the launch and landing zone is 350 meters, with a distance of 1,400 meters. The landing zone is flat, measuring 80 by 150 meters, and is located at an altitude of 50 meters above sea level. Access from the landing zone to the launch area involves a 2-minute walk, an 8-minute car ride, and a 5-minute ride on a mono-rack cart, totaling about 15 minutes. Cross-country flights are accepted at this site. Nearby attractions include marine sports, swimming, and gathering sea shells on the coast of Lake Hamanako. After a flight, you can relax at the Mikkabi Hot Spring or Kanzannji Hot Spring, both located nearby. For more information, visit the [Hamanako Paraglider School website](http://www.jpmsports.com) or check out the [Japan Hang & Paragliding Federation's site](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/english/site/site/Shizuoka.html#anchor2003shizuoka01).

View spot

Ozu Kannannzan Flight Area

Ozu Kannannzan Flight Area is located in the picturesque basin at the west end of Shikoku Island, often referred to as the Little Kyoto of Ehime Prefecture. The site offers year-round paragliding opportunities and is accessible by car or train from Matsuyama City. The launch area faces north, west, and northwest, with the best conditions typically from the northwest. The launch site is situated at an altitude of 320 meters above sea level, with a steep slope and an area of 30m x 50m. The flight conditions include thermal soaring (50%), ridge soaring (70%), and straight flights to the landing zone (30%). The altitude difference between the launch and landing zone is 300 meters, with a distance of 1,000 meters. The landing zone is a flat area of 500m x 200m, located at 20 meters above sea level. It utilizes a rice field, available from November through May. Access from the landing zone to the launch site involves a short walk followed by a 20-minute car ride. For those interested in cross-country flights, this site is accommodating. Nearby attractions include Ozu Fujisan Park, the Wind Museum in Hijikawa-cho, and the History Museum in Uwa-cho. For lodging, Family Trip Village offers camping facilities, and there are hot springs like Yu-yu Saganoya Spa and Ozu-no-Yu Spa. Dining options include Kameya restaurant, known for its Udon noodles. For more information, visit: [Ozu Kannannzan Flight Area](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/english/site/site/Ehime.html#anchor2003ehime04) Kan'nanzan Flight Area features three distinct takeoff points, providing a high probability of flight opportunities except during strong winds. The landing zone is a wide, dry riverbed, offering a stress-free landing experience. Located in Ikazaki-cho, Kita-gun, Ehime Prefecture, the site is accessible by car, being 60 minutes from downtown Matsuyama and 5 minutes from the Uchiko-Isozaki Ramp of the Matsuyama Highway. The site operates year-round. The launch areas include Sancho (top) Takeoff and Chufuku (halfway) Takeoff, both facing north with steep slopes. The launch altitude is 1,043 meters above sea level. Flight conditions include thermal soaring (20%), ridge soaring (70%), and straight flights to the landing zone (10%). The altitude difference between the launch and landing zone ranges from 30 to 100 meters, with a distance of 70 to 300 meters. The landing zone is a flat area of 180m x 50m, located at 940 meters above sea level. Pilots should be cautious not to overshoot the landing field due to its width and short length. Access from the landing zone to the launch site involves a 10-minute walk followed by a 5-minute car ride. Cross-country flights are not accepted at this site. Nearby attractions include the Kiri-no-Kogen Campground, known for its morning mist and starlit skies, and the Kogen Center House, which offers light meals and barbecue facilities. The Kiri-no-mori Cottage also features a spa. For more information, visit: [Kan'nanzan Flight Area](http://jhf.hangpara.or.jp/english/site/site/Ehime.html#anchor2003ehime01)

View spot

-HG Tanzawa Bodai Bodhi

Located in Japan, this paragliding site at an elevation of 777 meters is regularly used by hang gliders and offers good cross-country (XC) potential. The site record for the longest flight is 51.7 km. For more details, you can visit the Tanzawa Sky Club's website: http://tanzawa-sky-club.com/.

View spot