Kirk here. Atsuko’s post about Amakusa reminded me of this bit of news from RKK. Even if you don’t understand Japanese, the combination of the English text and the images in the video should give you a clear idea of what’s nice about the Ryugatake Summit Natural Park (which I’ve never been to yet myself).

=== start ChatGPT translation of Japanese article ===

Headline: “The Best Starry Sky in Japan” Should Be Seen from the Summit of Mt. Ryugatake! How ‘Mountain Amakusa’ Doubled Its Revenue and Offers More than Just the Sea — Kumamoto

Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025, 9:00 AM

Exploring the Natural Park at the Summit of Mt. Ryugatake in Kami-Amakusa, Kumamoto

We visited a breathtaking natural park in Ryugatake, Kami-Amakusa City, Kumamoto Prefecture—an attraction that has revitalized the town’s tourism resources and reportedly doubled its revenue by drawing in visitors.

A Place Where “Half the Facilities Couldn’t Be Used”

Located about two and a half hours by car from central Kumamoto City, the Ryugatake Summit Natural Park sits atop Mt. Ryugatake at an elevation of 470 meters.

This expansive site includes campgrounds with tent sites, lodges, and bungalows, as well as rare facilities such as an astronomical observatory where visitors can observe stars and celestial bodies.

Originally operated by Kami-Amakusa City, the park’s management was transferred three years ago to a company based in Uki City that runs restaurant businesses, as part of its business expansion. Staff member Akinori Miura took over operations.

Miura, Park Manager: “Previously, half the lodging facilities couldn’t even be used, and the management building was little more than a reception area—not a welcoming space. So we renovated everything to ensure the campground facilities could all be used. We want to contribute to the development of Ryugatake and Kami-Amakusa by running this park, so we work hard every day.”

A Bold Initiative: Next-Generation Vehicles

In an effort to increase visitors, Miura began an unprecedented new initiative.

Miura: “Our highlight is definitely this. We’ve brought in Segways.”

That’s right—the park introduced Segways and other next-generation vehicles. Facilities where visitors can ride Segways are rare in Kumamoto, making this park a unique attraction where anyone can try them out casually.

Miura: “When we took on the park’s management, I wanted to do something in Amakusa that no one else was doing. That’s why we introduced Segways. I believe we’re the only ones offering this here.”

Since the Segways were introduced, tourists from both inside and outside the prefecture have increased. This unique initiative has drawn people to the park and contributed to revitalizing the region.

Miura: “Since we became the managers, both revenue and visitor numbers have more than doubled.”

Enjoying Japan’s Best Starry Sky

Another highlight of the park is Myui Observatory, a valuable tourism resource for the town. Inside, visitors can enjoy planetarium shows and enchanting exhibits featuring constellations and planets glowing under black light.

By making better use of such facilities, the hidden value of the park has become clear.

Outside, stargazing sessions with small telescopes are also held. Ryugatake was once selected by Japan’s Ministry of the Environment as having the “Best Starry Sky in Japan.” Surrounded by pristine nature, the chance to gaze at such a beautiful night sky has become one of the park’s biggest draws.

Junki Kitamoto, Observatory Staff: “I’d like as many people as possible to see this and share in its beauty.”

More Spectacular Views of “Mountains and Sea”

The starry sky isn’t the only attraction. From the observation deck near the observatory, visitors can take in sweeping panoramic views of the Amakusa Islands and the Yatsushiro Sea.

Miura: “I hope people who see Amakusa’s mountains and sea from here will be inspired to protect our natural environment.”

The park also features attractions like a power spot—a massive rock with a heart-shaped hollow, popular with couples. With such hidden potential appealing to diverse visitors, Ryugatake Summit Natural Park continues to evolve.

Miura: “When people think of Amakusa, they often picture the sea and fishing. But here at the summit, you can also enjoy camping and stargazing. Please come visit—we’re waiting for you.”