Norikura Kogen(Highland) is located 1500m above sea level and deep in the mountain, Japanese alps.
Therefore there is only few a light source and best spot to see the star and Norikura Kogen is one of the best star watching spot in Japan.
You can see the milky way with the naked eye and many shooting star.

Photo:Takeshi Tsutsuki
We are such a small beings compared to the universe.

Photo:Takeshi Tsutsuki
Star watching depends on the weather and phases of the moon.
The best timing is in the new of the moon.
If you want to see the milky way Cleary, please check the moon calendar and latest weather information.
The below is new moon date on 2017
23th July, 22nd August, 20th Sept, 20th Oct, 18th Nov, 18th Dec.
We hold a star watching tour on the day good for watching stars.
If you’d like to participate the tour,please refer to the following URL.
Reservation of Tours

Photo:Cheng Tung Cheuk
Please make sure to bring some cloths because it is very cold outside even summer.
During staying at Guesthouse Raicho, Norikura Kogen you must be relaxed by beautiful nature, Onsen(hot springs) and stadium of stars.

Guesthouse Raicho’s Outdoor Onsen Photo:Takeshi tsutsuki

Guesthouse Raicho Photo:Takeshi tsutsuki
There are many activities in Norikura Kogen, Japanese alps.
Please refer the below articles for the detail.
Mountain bike and Cycling at Norikura Kogen
Mt Norikura Hill Climb
Hiking & Trekking information about Japanese alps
River Climbing
Popular tourist spots around Norikura Kogen
Mt Norikura sunrise bus