Introduction: 2026 is a “Golden Year” for Meteor Shower Observation!
Did you know, camping car owners, that 2026 is an exceptional year for stargazing? According to the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, both the Perseids meteor shower (August) and the Geminids meteor shower (December) can be observed under “ideal conditions” with almost no moonlight interference—a rare occurrence indeed.
The Shikoku and Kyushu regions offer ideal environments for stargazing, with high-altitude areas away from urban light pollution and coastlines with open views of the southern sky. Furthermore, many spots allow you to observe the stars right from your parking space with a camping car, and you can stay warm inside your vehicle even during cold winter observations.
In this article, we introduce stargazing spots in Shikoku and Kyushu that are easily accessible by camping car and suitable for overnight stays and observation, organized by prefecture.
【Shikoku Region】Stunning Stargazing Spots Where Mountains Meet the Sea
The Shikoku region offers two distinct observation environments: high-altitude areas in the Shikoku Mountains and coastlines facing the Pacific Ocean. In the mountain areas, you can enjoy the Milky Way in crystal-clear air, while along the coast, you can appreciate the southern stars with expansive views.
Tokushima Prefecture
★ Gakujin no Mori (Mountaineer’s Forest)【Recommended】
Located at approximately 1,000m elevation, Gakujin no Mori is a secure observation spot with 24-hour staff on duty. It features auto-camping sites with toilet and shower facilities available. This is Shikoku’s top recommended spot where both beginners and experienced observers can enjoy stargazing with peace of mind.
- Elevation: Approximately 1,000m
- Parking: Auto-camping sites available
- Facilities: Toilets, showers, and shop
- Features: 24-hour staff for safety and security
Kochi Prefecture
★ Shikoku Karst / Tengu Kogen【Recommended】
At approximately 1,400m elevation, Shikoku Karst is one of Shikoku’s premier stargazing locations. Tengu Kogen features an observatory and planetarium, while camping (500 yen) is available at Himezuru-daira. The combination of the distinctive landscape dotted with limestone formations and the starry sky is breathtaking.
- Elevation: Approximately 1,400m
- Parking: Free parking at Tengu Kogen and Himezuru-daira
- Facilities: Observatory and planetarium (Tengu Kogen)
- Camping: Available at Himezuru-daira (500 yen)
⚠️ Note: Roads may be closed due to snow from December to March. Always check road conditions before visiting in winter.
Cape Muroto
Cape Muroto features an exceptionally dark sky with a light pollution index of 0.50. With views open to the east, south, and west, it’s an ideal location for Milky Way photography (best season: February to September). However, be aware of streetlights and footing, and tide checking is essential. This spot is recommended for experienced observers.
- Light Pollution Index: 0.50 (very dark)
- View: Open to east, south, and west
- Best Season: February to September (Milky Way photography)
- Caution: Watch for streetlights and footing; tide check essential
Agawa Sky Park
Known as a paragliding launch site, Agawa Sky Park is also suitable for stargazing with its open views and moderate elevation. Parking is available, making it easy to visit casually.
Ehime Prefecture
Shikoku Karst (Ehime Prefecture Side)
Shikoku Karst spans both Kochi and Ehime prefectures and is also accessible from the Ehime side. You can enjoy the same wonderful starry skies as on the Kochi side.
Kagawa Prefecture
Goshikidai Youth Nature Center
A suburban astronomical observation facility. It features an astronomical observation building with regular public observation events. This is an easily accessible spot recommended for beginners and families.
- Facilities: Astronomical observation building
- Events: Regular public observation sessions
- Features: Easy access from urban areas
【Kyushu Region】Dynamic Stargazing Experiences Created by Volcanoes and Highlands
The Kyushu region offers a variety of stargazing spots, from highland volcanic areas like Aso and Kuju to observatories facing the Genkai Sea. The highland areas of Kumamoto and Oita, in particular, provide stable airflow and clear air at elevations of 600-1,100m.
Fukuoka Prefecture
★ Hoshino Village / Hoshi no Bunka-kan【Recommended】
A full-scale astronomical facility equipped with one of Kyushu’s largest telescopes with a 100cm aperture. It also features a planetarium and overnight accommodation is available. Combined with the adjacent Ikenoyama Campground and Ikenoyama-so hot spring, it provides the perfect base for stargazing. The village is a member of “The Most Beautiful Villages in Japan” association.
- Telescope: 100cm aperture (one of Kyushu’s largest)
- Parking: Approximately 40 spaces
- Facilities: Planetarium and accommodation
- Nearby: Ikenoyama Campground, Ikenoyama-so Hot Spring, Tea Culture Museum
Saga Prefecture
★ Iroha Island Observatory【Recommended】
An observatory overlooking the large and small islands of “Iroha Islands” floating in Imari Bay. Legend has it that the Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi threw down his brush in awe of this spectacular view. With a free parking lot accommodating 108 vehicles and views open to the east and west, it’s ideal for stargazing. Wheelchair-accessible ramps make it enjoyable for everyone.
- Parking: 108 spaces (free)
- View: Open to east and west
- Facilities: Wheelchair-accessible ramp
- Nearby: Kokumin Shukusha Iroha-jima (with hot spring)
Kumamoto Prefecture
★ Kusasenri-ga-hama【Recommended】
A signature scenic spot of Aso at approximately 1,100m elevation. The 24-hour parking lot (500 yen/day) makes it ideal for overnight stays in a camping car. The 360-degree panoramic view offers a unique sight found nowhere else: volcanic smoke from Mt. Aso Nakadake combined with a sky full of stars.
- Elevation: Approximately 1,100m
- Parking: 24-hour access (500 yen/day)
- View: 360-degree panorama
- Highlights: Volcanic smoke from Mt. Aso Nakadake with starry sky
- Nearby: Aso Volcano Museum
⚠️ Note: Temperatures can drop below freezing in winter. Adequate cold-weather gear is essential, and be mindful of horses grazing in the area.
★ Minami-Aso Luna Observatory【Recommended】
A full-scale astronomical observation facility located at approximately 600m elevation. Guided observation sessions by expert staff are popular. With accommodation facilities on-site, it’s recommended for those who want to take their time enjoying the starry sky.
- Elevation: Approximately 600m
- Facilities: Observatory and accommodation
- Features: Guided observation sessions by expert staff
Oita Prefecture
★ Chojabaru / Tadewara Wetland【Recommended】
The trailhead for the Kuju Mountains at approximately 1,030m elevation. Easily accessible along the Yamanami Highway, it’s well-equipped with parking, toilets, and vending machines. The open views of Tadewara Wetland and the clear highland air provide an excellent environment for stargazing.
- Elevation: Approximately 1,030m
- Parking: Available (free)
- Facilities: Toilets and vending machines
- Nearby: Yamanami Highway, surrounding hot spring resorts
Kuju Flower Park / Hoshi Furu Kan
An astronomical observation facility within the flower park overlooking the Kuju Mountains. Enjoy flower fields during the day and starry skies at night for a full day of nature appreciation.
Miyazaki Prefecture
Ebino Kogen
A highland at approximately 1,200m elevation in the northern part of the Kirishima mountain range. With parking for about 200 vehicles, camping cars are welcome. Combine stargazing with daytime hiking to attractions like Mt. Karakunidake and Fudo Pond.
- Elevation: Approximately 1,200m
- Parking: Approximately 200 spaces
- Nearby: Mt. Karakunidake, Fudo Pond, Ebino Kogen Camp Village
Kagoshima Prefecture
★ Kihoku Uwaba Park / Kihoku Tenkyu-kan【Recommended】
A stargazing spot that represents Japan, having been selected 7 times as “Japan’s Best Stargazing Location” by the Ministry of the Environment’s “Continuous Star Observation” program! The Tenkyu-kan on a hill at approximately 550m elevation houses a large 65cm aperture telescope, with a massive parking lot accommodating 600 vehicles. There’s also an adjacent campground where you can stay in star-shaped bungalows called “Star Houses” for a night literally surrounded by stars.
- Elevation: Approximately 550m
- Awards: Selected 7 times as “Japan’s Best Stargazing Location” by the Ministry of the Environment
- Telescope: 65cm aperture
- Parking: 600 spaces (large vehicle compatible)
- Accommodation: Campground, “Star House” bungalows
- Nearby: Athletic facilities, day-trip hot spring 15 minutes away
🌟 2026 Stargazing Guide
Astronomical Observation by Camping Car
Understanding Observation Conditions
Check cloud cover forecasts and satellite imagery for clear skies
Around new moon is the best time for observation
Confirm nighttime availability and large vehicle access in advance
Watch for road closures and ice in mountain areas
Keep headlights and interior lights to a minimum. Red lights recommended
Avoid prolonged idling (noise and exhaust)
Be especially quiet late at night. Be considerate of other observers
Always take your trash with you. Leave it cleaner than you found it
Pollen season. Visibility may be reduced by yellow dust
Insect repellent essential. Cool at night even at high elevations
Best season! Clear air makes stars crisp and bright
Best transparency, but prepare for cold weather. Watch for snow in mountain areas
✅ Pre-Departure Checklist
Summary: Recommended Spots by Purpose
Recommended for Beginners & Families
- Gakujin no Mori (Tokushima) – 24-hour staffing for safety, well-equipped facilities
- Hoshi no Bunka-kan (Fukuoka) – Fun learning with guided explanations
- Kihoku Tenkyu-kan (Kagoshima) – Easy access to Japan’s best starry sky
Recommended for Serious Stargazers & Photographers
- Shikoku Karst (Kochi/Ehime) – Spectacular views at 1,400m elevation
- Cape Muroto (Kochi) – Minimal light pollution, ideal for Milky Way photography
- Kusasenri-ga-hama (Kumamoto) – Unique combination of Aso’s volcanic smoke and starry sky
Recommended for Camping Car Overnight Stays
- Kusasenri-ga-hama (Kumamoto) – 24-hour parking available
- Chojabaru (Oita) – Well-equipped facilities, hot springs nearby
- Kihoku Uwaba Park (Kagoshima) – Massive parking lot for 600 vehicles
2026 is a banner year for meteor showers. We hope you’ll explore the stargazing spots of Shikoku and Kyushu by camping car and create unforgettable memories under the stars!
