Chōkai Highland — Akita's highland with Japan's 2nd-best starry sky

Overview

Chōkai Highland Handate Pasture Park is a highland resort sprawling at the foot of Mt. Chōkai in Yurihonjo City, Akita Prefecture. It is one of Tōhoku's representative stargazing spots, having achieved a ranking of 2nd in Japan in the Environment Ministry's nationwide continuous starlight observation survey.

The pasture at about 500m elevation sprawls with an open horizon. The sight of the silhouette of Mt. Chōkai woven together with a sea of stars captivates visitors.

Observation environment

Located at the foot of Mt. Chōkai and influenced by the Sea of Japan climate, the nights with a high-pressure system provide exceptional transparency. With no major cities nearby and the open terrain of the pasture allowing observation down to the horizon, conditions are excellent.

From autumn to winter, cloud cover typical of the Sea of Japan side increases, but clear summer nights reveal the Milky Way crossing overhead, and many astronomy enthusiasts visit during meteor shower periods.

Facilities and usage guide

Several cottages within the park allow visitors to enjoy starry skies at leisure while staying overnight. With barbecue facilities and pasture experiences available, you can enjoy family activities during the day and stargazing at night.

The operation period is from late April to early November, with closure in winter. Cottage reservations can be made by phone or website.

Access

About 50 minutes by car from JR Ugo-Honjo Station, about 40 minutes from Honjo IC on the Nihonkai-Tohoku Expressway. Be cautious when driving mountain roads at night.

Stargazing tips

The pasture plaza is the best observation point with an open horizon. With grassy ground, it's comfortable to spread a leisure sheet and observe while lying down. Evenings are cool even in summer on highland areas, so bring a long-sleeved jacket. Facing away from Mt. Chōkai opens the southern sky, allowing you to enjoy the densest part of the summer Milky Way.