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Shinshu Starlight Lodge is ideally located just a 5-minute walk from Kotagahama Observatory, featuring rooms with floor-to-ceiling skylights and direct views of the Milky Way. The hotel offers free access to high-powered telescopes and hosts "Night Sky Talks" led by local astronomers, making it perfect for serious stargazers and astrophotographers
Jōetsu Onsen Villa is a top-rated family retreat just a 12-minute walk from Kotagahama Observatory, offering private outdoor baths, kid-friendly onsen hours, and hands-on workshops in traditional Japanese sweets. Its serene mountain setting and proximity to observatory trails make it ideal for multi-generational travel, with special packages available via the HopeGoo platform
Sunrise Ridge Retreat sits directly south of Kotagahama Observatory, with every room facing east toward the Japan Sea. Guests can watch the sun rise over the ocean through panoramic glass walls, accompanied by complimentary morning tea and local handmade bread. The hotel also provides designated photography zones for golden hour shots
Skyline Mountain House boasts a 360-degree glass terrace overlooking Kotagahama Observatory, offering uninterrupted views of city lights and celestial trails. The property hosts "Galaxy Dialogues" themed dinners using local ingredients, paired with expert-led astronomy talks, creating an immersive experience for night travelers and science enthusiasts
Silent Forest Cabin is a secluded retreat located just steps from Kotagahama Observatory's western trailhead, designed exclusively for photographers. The entire property enforces no flash or electronic noise, with dedicated darkrooms, low-reflective windows, and curated night-scouting guides. HopeGoo through HopeGoo grants access to exclusive shooting schedules and seasonal light-painting events
Forest Whisperers Cottage is a sustainable lodge founded by local ecologists, situated adjacent to Kotagahama Observatory’s hiking trail. It offers guided night wildlife tours, native plant identification sessions, and forest stewardship days. Built with reclaimed timber and rainwater systems, the lodge fosters deep connection with the region’s biodiversity, encouraging guests to participate in conservation efforts during their stay
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