Hoshinitenotodokuoka Camping Ground
Hoshinitenotodokuoka Camping Ground: A Starry Escape at the Foot of Mt. Furano
Ok, picture this: you’ve escaped the frenetic pace of modern life and find yourself nestled at the foot of Mt. Furano in Hokkaido, Japan, gazing up at a sky so clear that you could almost believe the stars are winking at you in conspiratorial delight. Welcome to Hoshinitenotodokuoka Camping Ground, or as it poetically translates, Star Reaching Hill Campsite—a place where nature’s canvas is as mesmerizing by night as it is by day.
Stargazing: Nature’s Most Dramatic Light Show
For the starry-eyed among us (literally), this campsite is a veritable paradise. It’s renowned as one of Furano’s finest spots for stargazing, and there’s not a single artificial light in sight. Even the faintest glimmer of stardust has its moment in the spotlight here, making it an ideal destination for astrophotographers, dreamers, and anyone who simply wants to get lost in the cosmos.
The campsite offers two designated stargazing spots: “Hill Site” and “Star Site.” For those keen to capture the heavens in all their glory, there’s a little art to it—position your tent just right to add that rustic aesthetic touch to your celestial snapshots. And if you’re looking for photography inspiration, the campsite’s Instagram is a treasure trove of tips. Or, for the more hands-on types, the staff will even help with framing suggestions for the perfect shot.
Sunsets that Steal the Show
If sunsets are more your speed, you’re in for a treat. By 3 PM, you’ll want to stake out a spot on the eastern slope. As the day melts into evening, the sky over Furano transforms into an ever-shifting palette of pinks, oranges, and purples. It’s one of those moments that demands a quiet drink, perhaps a sigh of contentment, and the satisfaction of knowing your tent is already pitched and your worries have been left far behind.
The Local Culinary Delight: Genghis Khan BBQ
Now, what would a camping trip be without food? And not just any food—here, it’s Genghis Khan BBQ (Jingisukan), Furano’s famous lamb dish. But fair warning: this is no spontaneous decision. If you want to indulge in this regional specialty, make sure to check in by 4:30 PM and have a reservation in hand. Dinner is served at the nearby Hitsuji no Oka, an exclusive treat reserved for guests of the campsite. There’s nothing quite like the primal satisfaction of grilling lamb under a canopy of stars.
A Dawn Greeting from the Locals
Early riser? Perfect. Because at 6 AM sharp, the local sheep are let out to graze, and there’s something undeniably calming about watching these woolly creatures begin their day. It’s a delightful sight, especially with the backdrop of Hokkaido’s serene landscape. And, lest the sheep steal all the limelight, the campsite is also home to about 50 rabbits. Both children and adults alike are encouraged to feed and frolic with these long-eared residents, adding a dash of whimsy to the morning routine.
Summer Fun: Stag Beetles and Bonfires
From mid-June to early August, stag beetle hunting becomes the name of the game. Elementary school boys and girls (and the young at heart) often take part in this impromptu summer competition, scouring the grounds for these fascinating creatures. If bug-hunting doesn’t light your fire, perhaps an actual fire will. Bonfires are permitted at all tent sites, with firewood available for just ¥500—a small price for the quintessential camping experience. And for those who enjoy a bit of sparkle, hand-held fireworks are allowed in designated areas, though launching fireworks are strictly off-limits to preserve the camp’s tranquility.
A View from Above: The Sea of Clouds
As if stargazing, sunsets, and sheep weren’t enough, the camp offers yet another natural wonder—the sea of clouds. When conditions are right, the Furano Basin fills with a rolling mist, creating a scene so ethereal that it could easily be mistaken for a dream. Framed by the Furano/Tokachi mountain ranges and the rolling hills of Beberui, it’s a sight that demands to be seen—and Instagrammed.
Practical Information
Getting There
- By Car: Expect about a three-hour drive from Sapporo or an hour from Asahikawa.
- By Public Transport: From New Chitose Airport, it’s a 30-minute train ride to Sapporo Station, followed by a 2.5-hour highway bus journey to Furano Station. From there, it’s just 7 minutes by local train to Nakafurano Station. The Nakafurano Circular Bus runs twice a day on weekdays (but not on weekends), and you’ll want to disembark at “Kyodokan-mae” and walk a leisurely 10 minutes uphill to Hitsuji no Oka.
Check-in/Check-out
- Check-in: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Check-out: 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM
(Tel: 0167-44-3977 / 080-3234-9169—in Japanese)
A Few Handy Tips and FAQ
- Reservations: The site welcomes only one family per reservation. Group bookings for more than two families or friends are a no-go, unless it’s a party of up to four adults that includes grandparents or junior high school kids or older. Best to book ahead!
- Pets: Your furry companions are welcome, but there’s a fee. Just note that pets aren’t allowed in bungalows or inside vehicles overnight.
- Amenities: Forgot something? No worries—basic necessities like ice (¥200), charcoal (¥1,000), and firewood (¥500) are available on-site. Showers cost ¥200, and power is available at camper sites for an extra fee.
- Trash: Trash collection is a punctual affair—only from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM, for ¥100. Outside these times, you’ll need to pack it out.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it. Hoshinitenotodokuoka Camping Ground offers more than just a place to pitch your tent; it offers an escape, an adventure, and a return to a simpler way of living. Whether it’s the stars, the sunset, or simply the satisfaction of grilling your own dinner beneath a twilight sky, this hidden gem in Hokkaido is sure to leave you starry-eyed and full of memories that sparkle long after the embers of the bonfire have cooled.