This is a guest blog written by one of Designer Journeys’ trusted Local Designers in Japan.
For those, like me, who prefer the countryside, you’ll know that a twinkling world awaits you beyond the light pollution of the cities. Japan skies are no different; they are filled with millions upon millions of stars without borders.
In the remote parts of Japan’s countryside, the enormity of sparkles above you reflects in your wide eyes as you stare up in awe. Here, the only sound that might interrupt your stargazing experience, is the river or the insects or maybe even the snoring of your fellow traveller that fell asleep beside you because of how peaceful and surreal it is there. It is truly a magical experience.
So, you’re probably thinking: ‘How do I experience this? Must I detour to see this?’
You will be glad to know, that it is not hard to do this. In fact, it can fit into your current itinerary with ease and for no extra cost at all, you just need to know how and where.
Here are our three favourite stargazing locations, shared by Designer Journeys’s Local Designers in Japan.
1- Spotting shooting stars at Shirakawa-go Village
For anyone who is planning to visit the famous Golden Route, it will most likely include this sightseeing spot. (See image above) However, did you know that you can stay overnight at one of the Gassho Houses? Gassho Houses, known for their steeply-pitched thatched roofs, are only found in the historic villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama.
In Shirakawago, there are approximately ten houses that are open to tourists, specifically small private groups, where you will be hosted by the owners, giving you insight into traditional life and a unique, truly local experience.
2 – Catching the glittering skies at Kamikochi
Kamikochi
Kamikochi is one of Japan’s most beautiful mountain valley areas, well-known for its great scenic roads travelled by eco-bus and its stunning hiking trails. Kamikochi is a popular day trip, however, did you know you can also stay overnight here? The area is home to original ryokans, traditional Japanese inns that date back to the 8th century, within the valley where you can stay overnight.
Due to its remote location, by nightfall, Kamikochi’s skies light up with millions of glittering sparks spread out in the midnight blue skies above the mountains. Kamikochi is also a great overnight stopover option when travelling between Nagano Region and Takayama.
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3 – Watching the skies sparkle at Kurobe Alpine
Great Tateyama Kurobe Alpine
Have you heard of the Great Tateyama Kurobe alpine route? At 90 kilometres long, it is known as the ‘roof of Japan’ as it passes through the dynamic scenery of Mt. Tateyama in the Japanese Alps and is also home to the highest hotel in Japan. It takes approximately 8-10 hours to get from one end of the alpine to the other, via multiple methods of transportation and is considered a great adventure of Japan. Need we say more about how incredibly stunning the skies full of starts will look from up there.
Of course, there is a reason these trips aren’t widely known. In order to find the best spots, away from the crowds with minimum noise interruption and maximum stargazing abilities, you’ll need to know someone who knows these parts of Japan like the back of their hand.
This is where Designer Journeys’s Local Designers come in. Taking an adventure with Designer Journeys means you’ll be opened up to some of the most amazing local experiences and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that this stunning and culture-rich country offers.
Want to see the Stars of Japan for yourself?
Design your Japan adventure with Designer Journeys and let their experienced Local Designers do all the research and planning for you.
