If you come here early in the morning, you might be lucky enough to see the unique “Sea of Clouds” phenomenon. The best time to come is between October to March, especially November or December. You might see the clouds flowing along the Hijikawa River and blowing through Nagahama. They call this a “Hijikawa River Storm.” A festival is held on the third Sunday of November, where we’re told, “It’s a drinking festival!” Locals jokingly say this observatory was built so they could have a place to drink. There’s also a secret outdoor hot spring where you can stay overnight.