【Hidden Stargazing Spot】Astronomical Observation at Sounatameike Observatory on Hateruma Island 🌠

Did you know there’s a stargazing spot on Hateruma Island (Hateruma-jima), the southernmost point of Japan in Okinawa Prefecture? There’s a little-known hidden gem called the Sounatameike Observatory, a favorite even among the locals!

This time, we’ll introduce you to the Sounatameike Observatory, where you can fully enjoy the breathtaking starry sky!

Note: To reach Hateruma Island, you need to transfer to a ferry from Ishigaki Airport.

What is Sounatameike Observatory?

One of the sightseeing spots on Hateruma Island is the Sounatameike Observatory, located between the "Southernmost Monument of Japan" and the "Hamashitan Grove." This quiet, stone-built, trapezoid-shaped observatory stands next to an agricultural reservoir. Judging by the relatively new rock surface, it’s a fairly recent construction.

Access to Sounatameike Observatory

About 5 minutes by car from Hateruma Port
About 13 minutes by bicycle / 45 minutes on foot from Hateruma Port
About 14 minutes by bicycle / 50 minutes on foot from the village area
About 12 minutes by bicycle from Nishi-no-Hama Beach
About 23 minutes by bicycle from the Southernmost Monument of Japan
One thing to be careful of is the access to Sounatameike Observatory. Once you spot the sign from the circular road, head toward the sea and loop around from the southernmost road to get there.
If you head there at night to stargaze, it’s tricky to find your way and can be a bit of a struggle. It’s recommended to check the location during daylight hours when you have plenty of time.

What You Can Do at Sounatameike Observatory

Sounatameike Observatory may be simple, but the breathtaking view of the star-filled sky is its highlight. With no houses or city lights around, the stars shine even more brightly in the night sky.
You can also enjoy the scenery during the day. Although the observatory isn’t very tall and is built on flat land, the view is amazing. On a clear sunny day, you can expect an even more refreshing and beautiful panorama.

◎ Let's Go to Sounatameike Observatory

What do you think? Hateruma Island is famous as a stargazing destination, even having its own star observatory tower. Make the most of your time stargazing at Sounatameike Observatory on this beautiful island of Hateruma♪

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【Hidden Stargazing Spot】Astronomical Observation at Sounatameike Observatory on Hateruma Island 🌠