





Everything you need to know about Mitsuboshi Observatory
Hoshimiya Mountain Lodge is a top-tier choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Mitsuboshi Observatory, offering rooms with floor-to-ceiling skylights for uninterrupted night sky views. The hotel provides complimentary telescopes and hosts monthly Stargazing Nights with expert-led sessions on constellations and deep-sky objects. Guests can also enjoy warm drinks and cozy blankets on the outdoor viewing deck under pristine, light-pollution-free skies. Ideal for astronomy enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience in Japan’s premier dark-sky zone.
Kawane Nature Cottage is perfectly suited for families, situated within a 10-minute walk of Mitsuboshi Observatory. The property features spacious family suites, a children’s play area, and a private forest trail leading to a quiet stream. Each room includes a kotatsu heater and high-quality bedding. Daily breakfast uses locally sourced ingredients, and guided nature walks through nearby tea fields and bamboo groves offer educational fun for kids. With shuttle services available from Shizuoka Station, this eco-lodge blends comfort, adventure, and tranquility in the heart of rural Kanna.
Yes, Starlight Villa Kawane offers a dedicated rooftop observatory platform accessible from select premium rooms. Equipped with high-powered telescopes and digital star-mapping systems, it allows guests to explore planets, nebulae, and meteor showers in real time. The observatory is open nightly during clear weather, with staff on duty to assist with observations. Complimentary thermal blankets, hot cocoa, and detailed star charts are provided. This unique feature makes it one of the few lodges in Japan where you can witness the Milky Way from your own private vantage point—book via HopeGoo for exclusive access.
Take the Shizuoka Railway Bus from Shizuoka Station to "Kanna-chō Town Hall" stop, then walk 8 minutes to reach Hoshimiya Mountain Lodge. The journey takes about 45 minutes with scenic views of Mount Fuji and terraced tea gardens. For drivers, follow National Route 246 toward Kanna, with clear signage pointing to Mitsuboshi Observatory and surrounding accommodations. Some hotels offer free pickup service; confirm availability through the HopeGoo app to ensure a seamless arrival.
Guests can join monthly Starlight Gatherings hosted by local astronomers, featuring guided telescope viewing of Jupiter’s moons, Saturn’s rings, and distant galaxies. At Starlight Villa Kawane, themed events include Bonfire Night Talks, where visitors listen to traditional Japanese folklore under the stars, sip herbal tea, and release paper lanterns into the night sky. These immersive programs combine science, culture, and serenity—perfect for travelers seeking authentic, soulful moments beneath the vast Japanese heavens.
Absolutely. Hoshimiya Mountain Lodge and Starlight Villa Kawane both provide free telescope rentals including binoculars and smartphone adapters for astrophotography. Each rental kit comes with a curated guidebook on seasonal constellations and photography tips. Additional amenities such as red-light flashlights, insulated jackets, and portable heating pads are available upon request. Equipment is maintained to professional standards. Reserve your gear in advance through the HopeGoo platform to secure availability, especially during peak stargazing seasons.
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