Japanese resorts where you can reach for the stars

The Japanese resort region of Nagano is a long-time favourite for skiers and snowboarders. 

Now the Nagano region, about 250km north-west of Tokyo, wants to become a year-round destination for lovers of the outdoors. 

In a prefecture that boasts mountains as high as 3000 metres, local tourism officials want potential visitors to also focus on forests and the summer ground cover of flowers through hiking, cycling, e-biking, scenic drives or mere sightseeing.

And one highlight to visiting “The Roof of Japan” is to take on star gazing, where the air is clear and crisp and uninterrupted by artificial lighting.

“It’s one of those experiences worth treasuring for life,” said Helen Wong, Australian representative of the Nagano Tourism Organisation.

“There are several hotspots for guests to look into the night’s sky with a telescope; Star Village Achi and the famous Senjojiki Cirque (above) among the best,” she said.

“Nagano is known for its breathtakingly beautiful nature trails, fresh air and clear skies and is open to anyone wanting to lace up the boots for an adventure.

“Australians will soon realise there’s much more to holidaying in Nagano than challenging the slopes on skis or snowboards.”

Recent statistics indicate Australia remains Nagano’s number one long-haul market.

Star Village Achi is said to be the best spot for stargazing in Japan as endorsed by the Ministry of the Environment.

Here, visitors board a gondola from the base of Heavens Sonohara Snow World to Star Village Achi, where there is a café, telescopes and an open field that is perfect for stargazing.

At over 1400 metres, the village is surrounded by the Japanese Alps and light pollution is minimal. 

At 2600 metres above sea level, Komagatake’s Senjojiki Cirque is also a popular destination for anyone wanting to view starry skies. Here, guests can check into Japan’s highest-altitude hotel, Hotel Senjojiki.

At the northern end of the Japanese Alps lies the village of Hakuba, known for its plentiful snow and ski resorts that served as the venues for the 1998 Winter Olympic Games.

Visitors can take in the scenery of the Japanese Alps from almost anywhere in Hakuba, from riverside parks to mountaintop terraces.

One of the most impressive views of the mountains is from Happo Pond on top of 2000-metre high HakubaHappo One. 

For more details see www.go-nagano.net/en/

Are you ready to go skiing in Saudi Arabia?

Snow skiing in Saudi Arabia may sound an absurdity - but it will soon be a reality.

The Arab nation with a very dubious human rights record this week announced plans for a new mountain tourism destination in the futuristic city of Neom.

Trojena will feature a ski village and ski slope, as well as wellness resorts and an interactive nature reserve. 

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said the Trojena project is set for completion in 2026.

“Trojena will redefine mountain tourism for the world by creating a place based on the principles of ecotourism, highlighting our efforts to preserve nature and enhance the community’s quality of life, which is aligned with the goals of the kingdom’s Vision 2030,” said Prince Mohammed, who is also the chairman of Neom’s board of directors.

“It also confirms our commitment to be part of the global effort to protect the environment. 

"Trojena will be an important addition to tourism in the region, a unique example of how Saudi Arabia is creating destinations based on its geographical and environmental diversity."

Trojena will be a first-of-its-kind experience with retail outlets and restaurants as well as a man-made freshwater lake and a vertical village that will merge technology, entertainment and hospitality facilities. 

“Trojena represents  Neom's values and bold plans as a land where nature and innovative technologies come together to form a unique global experience,” said Neom CEO Nadhmi Al-Nasr.

Trojena expects to attract 700,000 visitors and 7,000 residents by 2030. The project will create more than 10,000 jobs, says a press release. 

Trojena will be made up of six districts: Gateway, Discover, Valley, Explore, Relax and Fun, all of which will be designed to offer activities catering to a variety of tastes and needs. 

The region is characterised by clean air and climatic diversity, where temperatures drop below zero in winter. 

Trojena is situated in the centre of Neom, 50 kilometers from the Gulf of Aqaba coast, in a mountain range with the highest peaks in Saudi Arabia at approximately 2,600 meters above sea level. 

Neom is planned to be a "smart city" home and workplace for more than one million people from around the world.

Intrigued? Read more at www.neom.com