Stars photographed near the house
New moon calendar, autumn and winter 2026-27
The new moon and about three days either side are the darkest nights.
| New moon (Japan time) | Darker nights (approx.) |
| Sun 11 Oct 2026 | 08 Oct - 14 Oct |
| Mon 09 Nov 2026 | 06 Nov - 12 Nov |
| Wed 09 Dec 2026 | 06 Dec - 12 Dec |
| Fri 08 Jan 2027 | 05 Jan - 11 Jan |
Dates are calculated estimates in Japan time. For exact moon phases see the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan. Visibility depends on the weather.
Meteor showers (typical peaks)
| Orionids | around 21 October (best after midnight when the moon sets) |
| Leonids | around 17-18 November (after midnight) |
| Geminids | around 14 December (five days after the new moon; the moon sets early) |
| Quadrantids | around 4 January 2027 (before dawn) |
A starry night at the house
Check in from 15:00, visit Shirakawa-go or a nearby hot spring in daylight, then cook in the island kitchen or have a BBQ on the deck. After dark, put on a warm coat and step outside; come back in to the wood stove when you get cold. It is a whole-house rental, so late nights and children's voices are no problem.
FAQ
When is the best time to see stars at Hirugano?
Nights around the new moon, when there is little moonlight. In autumn and winter 2026-27 the new moons fall on Sun 11 Oct 2026, Mon 09 Nov 2026, Wed 09 Dec 2026, Fri 08 Jan 2027. Clear skies depend on the weather.
Can I see stars from the house?
There are few lights around the house, and on clear nights you may see a sky full of stars (depending on weather and moonlight). The photos on this page were taken near the house.
How many people can stay?
Up to 6 guests for the same price. The whole house is yours: two bedrooms plus a loft.
Is it cold at night?
Yes. Hirugano is a highland area and autumn and winter nights are cold. Bring warm clothes for stargazing; the wood stove keeps the living room warm. Winter tyres are required in winter.
How far is it from Shirakawa-go and Takayama?
Shirakawa-go is about 40 km (40 min) and JR Takayama Station about 55 km (50 min) by road, so you can visit during the day and watch the stars at night.
Tencho no Bettei Hirugano · Ski guide · Shirakawa-go and Takayama