The Shinhotaka Ropeway
Stargazing Tour

Enjoy a sparkling, starry sky
illumination over the summits
of the Northern Alps!

The Shinhotaka Ropeway, located in Okuhida in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture, is a popular spot where visitors can enjoy spectacular views at over 2000m above sea level. I took a steep ride up Japan’s only two-story gondola (which can carry up to 100 people at once), and soon I was left speechless as a breathtaking view of the Northern Alps spread out before me.

For this trip, my goal was ride the limited-time Starry Sky Viewing Service which offers a view of the sparkling night sky from the observation deck at an altitude of 2156 meters. I arrived a bit early and strolled the newly opened Itadaki no Mori (Summit Forest). From the boomerang-shaped observation deck, you can get a sweeping view of Mt. Yari and the Hotaka Mountain Range. Their tranquil beauty was like a breath of fresh air.

Finally, the sun began to set, and it was time to watch the stars. As the darkness deepened, countless stars shone brighter and felt so close I could almost touch them. It was like a natural planetarium. Occasional shooting stars streaked across the night sky in a dreamy, romantic spectacle.