A Sky Full of Stars

The Milky Way Visible to the Naked Eye

In the environment at the foot of Mt. Omoto with virtually no light pollution, the Milky Way stretches clearly across the sky on clear nights. What you can never see in a city is an everyday sight here.

A Southern Island Where You Can See the Southern Cross

Located at 24 degrees north latitude, Ishigaki Island is one of the few places where you can observe the Southern Cross, which cannot be seen from mainland Japan. It's said you can see 84 of the 88 constellations and all 21 first-magnitude stars.

Japan's First Dark Sky Park

Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, which includes Ishigaki Island, became Japan's first International Dark-Sky Association certified "Dark Sky Park" in 2018. Light pollution is regulated by ordinance, and this beauty is protected by law.

Lie Down on the Wooden Deck

Omoto526's spacious wooden deck is the best seat for stargazing. Spread out a leisure sheet and lie flat, and you'll be enveloped in a sea of stars covering the entire sky.

Shooting Stars, Planets, and Eclipses Too

Perseids and many more

The Perseid meteor shower in summer, the Geminid meteor shower in winter, Jupiter and Saturn's close encounters… Ask the owner what astronomical events might occur during your stay.

Omoto526 Wooden Deck

A sky full of stars without leaving the property. With nothing to obstruct the view, you can see all the way to the horizon. The greatest appeal is being able to stargaze anytime without having to go anywhere.

Banna Park Observatory

The 230-meter-high observatory offers 360-degree views. Appropriately distanced from city lights, it's popular among photography enthusiasts as a premier spot for Milky Way photography.

Nagura Bay & Southern Coastline

Beaches with unobstructed ocean views are ideal locations for seeing stars all the way to the horizon. Choosing a beach with a clear southern view increases your chances of spotting the low-lying Southern Cross.

Mt. Omoto Trail

The island's highest peak, within walking distance of the property. As you ascend, light pollution approaches zero, and the starry sky glimpsed through gaps in the trees is exceptional. Pre-dawn hikes are for advanced hikers only.

● Spring March–May

Southern Cross Season

The best chance of the year to see the Southern Cross shining low in the southern sky. High transparency makes the Milky Way also appear vivid.

● Summer June–August

Peak Milky Way Season

The Summer Triangle rises high overhead and the Milky Way appears at its most intense. Don't miss the Perseid meteor shower (August) either.

● Autumn September–November

Autumn Constellations & Meteor Showers

After typhoon season ends, the sky becomes crystal clear. The night sky grows busier as we approach the Geminid meteor shower (December).

● Winter December–February

Orion & Winter Constellations

With stable atmospheric conditions and high transparency, Orion and the Pleiades shine beautifully in winter. The Geminid meteor shower peaks at winter's beginning.

Aim for the New Moon Period

The three days before and after the new moon, when there's no moonlight, offer the best conditions. Checking the lunar calendar when planning your stay dates will increase your satisfaction.

20 Minutes for Dark Adaptation

After coming from a bright location, it takes about 20 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Set your phone screen to minimum brightness and wait patiently.

Prepare for Insects & Cold

In summer, insect repellent spray and long sleeves are essential. Winter nights can drop below 10℃, so don't forget a jacket. Leisure sheets are also available for loan.