Fukui · Minami-Rokuroshi
Bortle 3 · Rural dark sky ｜ Elevation 500m ｜ SQM ~21.4 ｜ Best view South
Certified by DarkSky International in 2023 as an Urban Night Sky Place, Minami-Rokuroshi is Japan’s fourth International Dark Sky Place and Asia’s first Urban Night Sky Place.
Last reviewed: 2026-07
Minami-Rokuroshi is not about being completely remote; it shows how a near-urban highland can protect the night. As an Urban Night Sky Place, it connects light-pollution management, nature-center programming and accessible stargazing.
Minami-Rokuroshi lies in the highlands of Ono, Fukui, and is easiest by car. Roads are simpler from spring to autumn; in winter, confirm snow, ice and facility openings. For nature-center events, follow official dates and meeting details.
The Fukui Nature Conservation Center and highland facilities make it more approachable than wilderness sites, good for families and beginners. Because it is near settled areas, follow designated zones and keep personal lights low.
Spring through autumn can show the Milky Way, but the site’s strength is reliable, educational stargazing. Around new moon and clear air, summer Milky Way is visible; winter can be transparent but snow reflection and travel risk increase.
Photograph the protected-night concept: nature-center events, pasture or highland lines, low mountain silhouettes and star trails. It does not need to pose as wilderness; its story is that lighting management can preserve stars near communities.
A near-urban highland still has risks: cold nights, wildlife and winter snow or ice. Park only in legal safe spots, do not enter farmland or closed areas to avoid headlights, and postpone winter visits without snow-driving experience.
🌌 Tonight the Milky Way core climbs to a shootable altitude around 20:59, sinks back near 01:39, and peaks around 22:19 at roughly 25° in the South.
Located on the Minami-Rokuroshi plateau in Ono City, Fukui; easiest by car. Check snow and road conditions in winter.
Fukui Nature Conservation Center, stargazing events and plateau facilities; check official schedules.
Spring through autumn for general stargazing and Milky Way; winter can be clear but snow logistics matter.
See the nearby city's stargazing calendar
Bortle class and SQM are estimates for well-known sites, used to compare darkness — not on-site measurements.
Related tools: Taiwan Dark-Sky Map · Stargazing & Moon Viewing Score · Meteor Showers