Lively cloud formations along the Hiji River

Winter in Ozu. Under high-pressure conditions, a temporary inversion of atmospheric temperatures (layers closer to the ground are colder than higher ones) facilitates the formation of clouds at low levels. These are trapped in the narrow valleys of the Hiji River basin for several hours, until ground temperature rises.

 Taking place regularly at dusk, the sight of the sun rising above an undulating sea of clouds capped with islets of mountain peaks is memorable. At early hours you may encounter locals, equipped with photographic appliances and coffee thermos, heading towards the mountains to admire the morning spectacle. 

A rarer cloud phenomenon occurs in Nagahama (Hiji River mouth) where prevalent gap winds thrusts materialize, thanks to the formation of fog in clear and cold late autumn or winter mornings. Set under 1000m high mountains and the beautiful landscapes of the Seto Inland Sea, this phenomenon attracts the interest of both scientists and tourists alike. Observation deck.