Chokai Highland Hanadate Ranch Park - Japan's Second-Best Starry Sky in Akita's Highlands
Overview
Chokai Highland Hanadate Ranch Park is a highland resort at the foot of Mt. Chokai in Yurihonjo City, Akita Prefecture. It boasts an impressive track record of ranking second in the Ministry of Environment's nationwide starlight observation survey, making it one of the Tohoku region's premier stargazing spots.
The ranch spreading across the highland at approximately 500 meters elevation offers an open vista, and the landscape created by Mt. Chokai's silhouette and the starry sky captivates all who visit.
Observation Environment
Located at the foot of Mt. Chokai, it is influenced by Japan Sea-side climate, but on nights covered by high pressure systems, it boasts exceptional transparency. With no major cities in the surrounding area and the open terrain of the ranch, observation to the near horizon is possible.
From autumn to winter, cloudy skies typical of the Japan Sea side become more frequent, but on clear summer nights, the Milky Way crosses overhead, and during meteor shower seasons, many astronomy enthusiasts visit.
Facilities and Usage Information
The park features several cottages where you can enjoy stargazing while accommodated comfortably. With barbecue facilities and ranch experiences available, you can enjoy family activities during the day and stargazing at night.
The facility operates from late April to early November, with winter closures. Cottage reservations can be made by phone or through the website.
Access
About 50 minutes by car from JR Ugo-Honjo Station, and about 40 minutes from Honjo IC on the Japan Sea Tohoku Expressway. Since mountain roads are involved, be cautious with nighttime driving.
Observation Tips
The ranch's open plaza is the best observation point with the clearest view. The grassy ground makes it comfortable to lay out a leisure sheet and observe while lying down. Highlands can be chilly even in summer nights, so bring a long-sleeved jacket. When you position yourself with Mt. Chokai behind you, the southern sky opens up, and you can enjoy the densest part of the summer Milky Way.