Ishigaki Island is the best starry sky spot in Japan! Introducing tours, access, recommended spots, and the best time of day!
Table of Contents
- 1 Ishigaki Island is the best starry sky spot in Japan!
- 2 Why is Ishigaki Island the best place for star gazing?
- 3 Recommended spots for star gazing☆.
- 4 Tour information to enjoy the starry sky of Ishigaki Island
- 5 How to get there and how to get around Car rental is recommended!
- 6 The most beautiful starry sky Time of day and season
- 7 summary
Ishigaki Island is the best starry sky spot in Japan!
Ishigaki Island is one of the most beautiful islands in Japan due to its clean air and low light pollution.Starry sky viewing sitesKnown as ☆.
starry sky reserveThe area has also been designated as a "National Park of the Southern Cross," where you can clearly observe the Milky Way, the Southern Cross, and other stars that cannot be seen in the city!
◆If you are considering a starry sky tour in Ishigaki Island
◆If you want to leave a special commemorative photo on Ishigaki Island
◆Those who are looking for a spot where children can have fun together
Here, we will introduce information on how to comfortably enjoy star gazing on Ishigaki Island.
Why is Ishigaki Island the best place for star gazing?
Ishigaki Island has a mild climate and a high percentage of sunny days throughout the year.
Furthermore, the entire island is surrounded by nature and is less affected by city lights,A truly ideal environment for stargazingIt's ☆.
Why is it called "the starry sky best in Japan"?
On Ishigaki Island,All 84 constellations can be observed with the naked eyeand boasts the largest number of observation conditions in Japan!
Why is it also called the best in Japan?Darkness of sky, number of stars, visibilityThe size of theIt has all three beats.From ☆.
You must see it when you come to Ishigaki Island!
Click here for popular starry sky photo tours
What is a starry sky reserve recognized by the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan?
Some areas of Ishigaki Island are "theStarry sky reserve (Dark Sky Park)The company has been certified by the
This is proof of the international recognition of the beauty of the starry sky, and is a precious area where tourism and environmental protection are compatible☆.
Recommended spots for star gazing☆.
Ishigaki Island is dotted with the best spots for star gazing.
The following are some of the most recommended spots, taking into account ease of access, visibility, and the impact of city lights!
Banna Park Observatory
Not far from Ishigaki city, easily accessible by car.Banna Park!
From the observatory, located in a vast natural setting, the southern skyMilky WayYou can clearly observe the ☆☆☆.
It is a popular spot that is easy to visit even at night.â
Access: 15 minutes by car from Ishigaki Port Terminal
Parking: Free parking available
Facilities：Toilets available
Ishigakijima Observatory
At Ishigakijima Observatory,Observation with commentary by a professional astronomeris being held in the city.
One of the largest optical telescopes in JapanThe attraction is that you can experience full-scale astronomical observation using the
This is a rare opportunity for children and adults alike to learn about constellations, the positions of planets, and how the universe works🎵.
astronomical viewing partyschool (e.g. of ikebana)Reservations requiredTherefore, advance confirmation is recommended!
| general | Elementary, junior high and high school students | preschool child | |
| Facility Tour | 100 yen | 100 yen | free |
| Space Theater (Facility fee) | 400 yen | 200 yen | long vowel mark (usually only used in katakana) |
| astronomical viewing party | 500 yen | 300 yen | free |
*The Space Theater is for elementary school students and older.
Access: 20 minutes by car from Ishigaki Port Terminal
Business hours: 10:00~17:00
Parking: Free parking available
Facilities：Toilets available
Hirakubozaki Lighthouse
Located at the northernmost tip of Ishigaki IslandThe Hirakubozaki Lighthouse is the best place for star gazing because there are almost no artificial lights around it.
It features a wide field of view that extends all the way to the horizon, providing an experience that truly envelops you in space!
Access: 1 hour drive from Ishigaki Port Terminal
Parking: Free parking available
Facilities：Toilets available
For more information about Hirakubozaki Lighthouse, click here.
Kabira Bay
One of the most beautiful spots on Ishigaki Island, "Kabira BayIn addition to its beauty during the daytime, the "Starry Night" is also popular at night as a fantastic starry sky spot where stars are reflected on the surface of the sea☆.
Few city lights,Milky Way and Southern Crossis also clearly visible!
By car from the city centerApprox. 30 min.and easy access to the city, and a visit by rental car or cab is recommended.
Access: 25 minutes by car from Shin-Ishigakijima Airport, 30 minutes by car from the remote island terminal
Parking: Kabira No. 1 and No. 2 parking lots available (fee required)
Facilities：Toilets available
Click here for popular plans for Kabira Bay
deified volcano or volcanic eruption
Located on the western edge of Ishigaki Islanddeified volcano or volcanic eruption(Uganzaki) is a spectacular point where you can enjoy the sunset on the horizon and the stars in the sky afterwards☆.
Especially attractive is the location where the stars seem to fall into the sea♪ By car from the city centerApprox. 40 min.The following is a list of the most common problems with the
There is also a parking lot at the end of the paved road,Star gazing in the eveningIt is best to visit over the
Access: 1 hour and 20 minutes by car from Shin-Ishigaki Airport, 45 minutes by car from Ishigaki Port Remote Island Terminal
Parking: Free parking available
Facilities：Toilets available
For more information about Mikamizaki, click here.
Tamatorizaki Observatory
Located in the northeastern part of Ishigaki IslandTamatorizaki Observatoryis spread out from the high ground.Panoramic view and night skyis attractive!
Because the field of view is wide and unobstructed, the stars can be seen close to the horizon and the Milky Way is clearly visible.
By car from the airportApprox. 25 min.Free parking is also available for easy access.
It is worth visiting day or night!
Access: 20 minutes by car from Shin-Ishigaki Airport
Parking: Free parking available
Facilities：Toilets available
For more information about Tamatorizaki Observatory, click here.
Nagura Bay
Nagura BayThe charm of the "Mangrove World" is the serene world of starry skies, the sea, and mangroves.
The waves are calm and the stars are reflected like mirrors on the surface of the water, making for a truly spectacular sight!
By car from the city centerApprox. 20 min.and easy access,Milky Way and southern constellationsThis is a great location to observe â
The area is often a meeting place for stargazing tours.
Access: 15 minutes by car from the city center / 20 minutes by car from the outlying port terminal
Parking: Free parking available
Facilities：Toilets available
For more information about Nagura Bay, click here.
Yamama Village
Ishigaki Yaima Villageis surrounded by traditional red-tiled houses and tropical nature.theme parkThe following is a list of the most common problems with the
During special nighttime events, the park is open to the public with little light pollution.Southern Cross and countless starscan be observed☆.
By car from the city centerApprox. 20 min.It is a unique spot where you can enjoy both cultural experiences and star gazing as a set 🎵.
Access: 10 minutes by car from the city center
Parking: Free parking available
Facilities：Toilets available
Admission: Adults 1,200 yen / Children 600 yen
For more information about Yaima Village, click here.
Tour information to enjoy the starry sky of Ishigaki Island
For first-time stargazers,Night tours with expert guidesis safe♪
Knowledgeable about the weather and direction of the islandProfessional GuidanceThe attraction is that you can have a more fulfilling experience with the
Japan's best starry sky & night tours
Click here to see the ranking
Types and Features of Night Tours
In Ishigaki Island, in addition to tours with commentary by a star guide,Starry sky photo shooting, ,SUP and kayakA variety of night tours are offered, including activity-type tours that combine
Activities can also be experienced!
Click here for Sunset Tour Rankings
What are the advantages of participating in a tour?
(guided commentary, explanation of constellations, etc.)
On tour,Professional Guideswill introduce you to the constellations and myths associated with the stars, so you can't just look at them.Learning and inspirationis obtained!
â- You can rest assured that the professionals will be able to determine observation conditions due to weather conditions.â
Advance Reservation Timing and Notes
Popular season (spring - summer)and consecutive holidays fill up quickly, so please contact us as soon as you decide on your travel dates.Early reservations are essential.It is!
â- Since it can get cold at night, be prepared for cold weather and insect repellent.
Japan's best starry sky & night tours
Click here to see the ranking
How to get there and how to get around
Rental cars are highly recommended!
Many of the star gazing spots on Ishigaki Island are located far from the city center, so you can move freely.Rental car useis by far the most convenient.
especiallyA must for nighttime viewing.It is!
Access from Ishigaki Airport to each spot
From Ishigaki Airport to the city center by carApprox. 30 min.The following is a list of the most common problems with the
Banna Park, Hirakubozaki Lighthouse, and other spots are also available with a rental car.Within 1 hour Accessible via
Bus routes are few and nighttime service is limited!
Convenient airport transfer included♪
▼Click here to see our recommended car rental plans.
Why Renting a Car is the Best Way to Stargaze
Many of the starry sky spots areMountainous areas and along the coastand most are difficult to reach by public transportation!
With a rental car, you are not limited by time and can adjust to the weather and cloud movement.Flexibility to change destinations♪
▼Click here for recommended car rental plans for Ishigaki Island.▼
Points to keep in mind when using a rental car
(night driving, gasoline, navigation)
Because there are few street lights on the mountain roads at night,Drive carefully and do not drive too fastto!
Gas stations may be closed at night,Early refueling is safe.It is.
 Check the map on your navigation system or smartphone in advance.
Car navigation system is standard equipment!
Click here for recommended car rental plans
The starry sky is most beautiful
Time of day and season
For successful stargazing,timingis very important!
By being aware of the phases of the moon, the presence or absence of clouds, and seasonal constellations, you will increase your chances of seeing a more beautiful starry sky.â
Varies with the position of the moon, weather, and season.
best timing
There is no moonlight.a new moonThe best timing is around "1!
There are many sunny daysSpring and Autumnis especially recommended♪
After 9:00 p.m., the air is clearer and the stars are more clearly visible.
When is the Milky Way and Southern Cross visible?
The Milky Way isAround June to Augustis the best time to see it, and it spreads across the sky on the south side of the island.
The Southern Cross isApril - JuneEarly morning observation is also recommended because it is visible before dawn in
You can enjoy the starry sky unique to the tropics.
Characteristics and highlights of the starry sky in each season
Ishigaki Island is near the southernmost tip of Japan, and you can enjoy beautiful starry skies throughout the four seasons♪
The air is clear,Orion (constellation)and ... andwinter trianglesis clearly visible,deified volcano or volcanic eruptionwith little wind, such asWest side areais recommended.
spring
Southern Cross (asterism formed with the brightest four stars of the constellation Crux)is the best season for observation,Kabira Bay and Nagura Bay open to the southThe best way to view the scenery is in the
summer
Milky Waycrosses the night sky,A spot with a wide view like Tamatorizaki Observatoryis the best choice.
autumn
In autumn, the air is stable again,Pegasus (constellation)You can take your time to enjoy the autumn constellations such as
Constellation AppWhen used in combination with ☆, deeper observation is possible☆.
List of suitable attire and personal belongings for stargazing
In order to enjoy star gazing comfortably on Ishigaki Island,attirenot just ... (but also ..)personal effectsIt is also important to prepare for the
especiallyIt is darker outdoors at night than you might imagine.The weather can be chilly at times.
The following is a checklist of specific items suitable for stargazing.
Lightweight, long-sleeved cloak
Long pants that are easy to move in
Comfortable walking shoes (e.g. sneakers)
Hat (with a string so that it does not fly away in the wind)
◆personal effects
Towel around the neck (in summer)
Leisure Sheet
Outdoor chairs
Insect repellant spray, anti-itch medicine
Binoculars
Beverages & snacks (long viewing)
Zodiac Signs
summary
Ishigaki Island offers both sightseeing and nature experiencesSanctuary of the Starry SkyIt's ☆.
With recommended spots, tours, accessibility, and the best time of day, you will surely be able to see the starry sky for a memory of a lifetime!
Please add it to your travel plans♪
▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this one.
