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/

Tasmanian stargazing, wine and the Winter Solstice

Two of Tasmania’s leading drinks producers: Tamar Ridge and Turner Stillhouse are joining forces to host a one-off Winter Solstice stargazing event: NOIR NOIR.

This one-night-only event will take place at the Tamar Ridge cellar door on Saturday, June 21, from 6:30pm.  

The collaborators are inviting wine lovers, whisky drinkers and budding astronomers to sip, savour and stargaze under Tasmania’s bright winter sky - and be among the first to taste some new releases, including Tamar Ridge's 2023 Reserve Pinot Noir and Turner Stillhouse's inaugural whiskies, which includes Tasmania’s first ever Bourbon-style whisky: Rosevears Three Grain Whiskey and Rosevears Single Malt Whisky, matured in old Tamar Ridge pinot noir oak barrels. 

Guests at Tamar Ridge cellar door will be guided through a stargazing session by local astronomy expert Chris Arkless.

Arkless says the event will provide insights into Tasmania’s unique location in the Southern Hemisphere and the stellar beauty of Tasmania's night sky on the longest night of the year.

“Stargazing is a powerful way to connect with the natural world and ignite a sense of wonder. As we gather to celebrate the Winter Solstice with exquisite, locally made pinot noir and whisky, we will embark on a celestial journey, discovering the stars that have guided humanity for millennia.”

NOIR NOIR is being promoted as a “rare opportunity to connect the earthly pleasures of our Tasmanian landscape with the vastness of the universe”. 

Huddled around outdoor fire pits, guests will get a tasting of all new releases and can add the option of a cheese and charcuterie platter.

"NOIR NOIRis a chance to celebrate not only these two exciting new releases, but also theincredible natural beauty of Tasmania," said Tamar Ridge winemaker Tom Wallace.

"We're thrilled to partner with Turner Stillhouse to create a truly memorable night that showcases thebest of our cool-climate pinot noir and their exceptional new whisky, and to share the magic of a Tasmanian winter with our guests. 

Tickets for NOIR NOIR are $45 per person including a tasting of new releases, meeting Tamar Ridge winemakers, live music and stargazing session. Guests can add a cheese and charcuterie platter for $35 (for two people).

Tickets at tamarridge.rezdy.com/709946/noir-noir-winter-solstice.