The Complete Guide to Mauna Kea! Sacred Sites and Stargazing Attractions on the Big Island of Hawaii
Table of Contents
- 1 The Big Island Hawaii Island
- 2 What is the Big Island of Hawaii like?
- 3 How to get to Hawaii Island
- 4 Attractions of the Big Island of Hawaii
- 5 What is Mauna Kea like?
- 6 History of Mauna Kea
- 7 Mauna Kea Highlights
- 8 What to wear and what to wear to enjoy Mauna Kea
- 9 Access
- 10 If you want to enjoy Mauna Kea safely Mauna Kea, you should join a tour.
- 11 Mauna Kea Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 12 summary
The Big Island.
Hawaii Island, affectionately known as
The Big Island of Hawaii is known for its spectacular nature and beautiful scenery,Mauna Kea is especially famous for stargazing and astronomical observation.It's ☆.
With approximately 13 major observatories (telescopes) in place and clear skies, the night sky of the Big Island of Hawaii offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Volcanoes and beaches are also attractive, making it a place where you can enjoy the diverse beauty of nature.
◆Considering a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii (Hawaii Island)
◆To learn more about stargazing and observatories on Mauna Kea
◆Searching for safe ways to enjoy Mauna Kea and recommended tours?
◆To find out how to get to Mauna Kea, what to wear, and what to expect from altitude sickness.
What is the Big Island of Hawaii like?
The Big Island of Hawaii is a place of abundant nature and diverse landscapes.
Mauna Keaand ... andKilauea VolcanoThere are active volcanoes such asStar gazing at the observatory is also popularIt's ☆.
It has a mild climate and changes like the four seasons, and is dotted with resorts and beautiful beaches.
The grandeur of nature combined with a mystical atmosphere,An island of adventure and relaxationÂ
How to get to Hawaii Island
How to get to the Big Island of Hawaii,The most common route to the Big Island of Hawaii is via Honolulu International Airport.It is.
From Japan to OahuDaniel K. Inouye International AirportThere are direct flights to Kona, Hawaii, and connecting domestic flights to Kona International Airport on the Big Island of Hawaii.
There are few direct flights to the Big Island of Hawaii, but Japan Airlines from Narita and Hawaiian Airlines from Haneda offer service to Elion Onizuka Kona International Airport.
Direct flights from Japan to Honolulu
Time required: approx. 7 to 8 hours
Honolulu (Oahu) → Kona/Hilo (Hawaii Island)
Domestic Flights (Honolulu to Kona/Hilo)
Takes about 45 to 50 minutes
(2) Japan (Narita) → Kona (Hawaii Island)
Direct flights (direct flights from Narita to Kona)
Time required: approx. 7-8 hours
*Direct flights areVaries depending on time period and operating conditionsTherefore, it is necessary to check the latest information
Attractions of the Big Island of Hawaii
Hawaii Island is the place to be,Mauna Keaand ... andKilauea Volcanoand other world-famous natural spots,Stargazing and observatory observationIn addition to the,Kona coffeeand ... andsea turtleThere are also plenty of places where you can spend healing time, such as beaches where you can see â
As a tourist destination, it is dotted with resorts and historical sites,Pleasant climateIt is also a great place for long-term stays along with
Spectacular, untouched wilderness
Hawaii Island is,Unspoiled wildernessis a place where the
Mauna Keaand ... andKilauea Volcanoincluding the following,Akaka Fallsand ... andWimea ValleyYou can feel the power of nature in spectacular landscapes such as
Also,tropical forestThe unique natural beauty of the Hawaiian Islands can be seen in the unique lava and lava rock coastline.
A powerful volcano
Speaking of the Big Island of HawaiiKilauea Volcano.It is.
Located in the southeastern part of the Big Island of Hawaii, together with Mauna LoaDesignated as Hawaii Volcanoes National ParkThe company has been
Kilauea Volcano is a World Heritage Site, and there are several trails within the park that allow visitors to walk around and see the powerful volcano up close.
◆Access: 2 hours and 30 minutes by car from the center of Kailua-Kona
◆Entrance fee: 1 car: $30 (valid for 7 days) / pedestrian, bicycle, motorcycle: $15/person (valid for 7 days)
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Beautiful Beaches
On the Big Island of Hawaii,Unique coastline created by lavaand is dotted with beautiful beaches.
Particularly famous is the popular snorkeling spotKahaluu Beach Park.
Sometimes you can swim with sea turtles in the clear waters.
Further,Hapuna BeachThe "Mere Old Man" has a wide expanse of white sandy beaches,Quiet and relaxing spaceIt is known as the
The beaches of the Big Island of Hawaii have a unique beauty created by nature that impresses visitors.
◆Access: 12-15 minutes drive from the center of Kailua-Kona
◆Admission fee: Free
◆Parking: Free parking available
◆Facilities: Restrooms, picnic tables, showers and rental equipment
◆Access: Approximately 40 minutes by car from the center of Kailua-Kona
◆Parking: Paid parking available/$10
◆Admission fee:$5 per person (free for children under 3 years old)*Credit card payment only
Facilities: toilets, showers, changing rooms, lifeguards, rental equipment
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Shopping and dining are also recommended.
The Big Island of Hawaii has a fascinatingShopping Spotsand ... andgourmetThere is an abundance of â
Waikoloa Beach ResortShopping malls inThe King's Shops."and ... andQueens Marketplace.You can purchase luxury brand goods and Hawaiian sundries at
Kona BrewingThe local beer andBig Island Candiess cookies and chocolates also make great souvenirs!
Access: 25-30 minutes by car from Kona International Airport
◆Parking: Paid parking available
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Let's learn about culture and history.
The island of Hawaii was first known to the West in 1778 by Captain Cook.
At the time, the islands were in the midst of an ongoing struggle, but a Hawaiian nativeKing Kamehamehaunited it and established the Hawaiian dynasty in 1810.
Later, the dynasty fell with the influx of Western culture, but the island of Hawaii is still home toHistoric sites associated with King Kamehameha the Great still remain.
What is Mauna Kea like?
Mauna Keaboasts an elevation of 4,205 meters above sea level.Tallest mountain on the Big Island of HawaiiIt is.
It means "white mountain" and can be seen snow-capped in winter.
On the other hand, it has been cherished as a sacred place since ancient times,Now a world-famous observatory gathering place for star gazing Also known as
High percentage of clear skies, starry skies and beautiful sunrises and sunsets will captivate you.Special Place'It's good to be here'
History of Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea has been revered as a sacred mountain since ancient timesspiritual spotIt is.
In ancient times, temples were built and royalty were buried there.
Mauna Kea Highlights
Mauna Kea, at 4,205 meters above sea level, offers magnificent nature and one of the world's best starry skiesOne of the most spectacular spots on the Big Island of HawaiiIt's ☆.
From the top of the mountain, you can see the entire island of Hawaii, and it looks completely different by day and by night.
Depending on the season, snowy landscapes can be seen, allowing visitors to experience an extraordinary scenery while in the tropics.
The spectacular view from the top of the mountain is inevitably impressive.
The air is very clear near the summit, and the high percentage of clear skies is another attraction.â
especiallySunrise and sunset timesThe sky changes color from moment to moment,Breathtaking beauty surrounds you ◎
The scenery changes from dusk to night,An emotional experience that leaves a deep impression on visitors.This will be the case.
Enjoy stargazing at the observatory!
Observatories from around the world gather on Mauna Kea,The Frontiers of Astronomical ObservationIt is known as the
At night, the sky is filled with stars and the Milky Way,Telescopes can be used to observe constellations and planets'It's good to be here'
With a guided stargazing tour, you can enjoy the fascination of the universe with peace of mind while listening to explanations♪
Sunrise Sunset is great too!
On Mauna Kea,half-melon shaped bun (term used in the Chugoku area)andsunsetis also a special experience.
The sunrise from the top of the mountain is so beautiful that the moment the sky is dyed with fantastic colors is likeDreamy scenerywill expand♪
In the evening, the sky turns orange and pink, and the setting sun provides a spectacular drama.
Subaru Telescope
Subaru Telescopeis a Japanese optical-infrared telescope installed on Mauna Kea,One of the world's most famous astronomical observatoriesIt is.
It has a large mirror with a diameter of 8.2m, enabling clear observation of even distant stars and galaxies.
Currently,Virtual TourYou can also take an online tour of the inside of the telescope and how it works through the
You can have a precious experience to touch the mystery of the universe!
Popular as a power spot
Mauna Kea isFamous as a spiritual power spot.It is.
Mana" is the Hawaiian word forSpecial Spiritual PowerThis means.
Since ancient times, Hawaiians have sensed the mighty power of Mauna Kea and revered it as a sacred place.
Even today, the majestic Mauna Kea is a power spot where one can feel the universe, and is visited by many people from all over the world.
Trekking can also be enjoyed
You can drive to the top of Mauna Kea, though,Trekking is also recommended.'It's good to be here'
When climbing, park your car at the Onizuka Visitor Center,Submit a mountaineering report before setting out.I will do so.
Fuji, so do not try to climb the mountain all at once, but take your time and rest as you go.
You can wear athletic shoes or sneakers as you walk along the road.
Mauna KeaTrekking takes half a day.So be sure to prepare food and drinking water in advance.
Onizuka Visitor Center
It is a rest and education facility located halfway up Mauna Kea, named after Colonel Onizuka, a Hawaiian-born Japanese-American astronaut.
Trekkers can find it here.Submit mountain climbing reportDo,Leave your car and go trekkingI will do so.
Information on each observatory on Mauna Kea, hot beverages, souvenirs, and more ☆.
Access: 1 hour drive from Hilo International Airport
Note: Rental cars or tours are required / 4WD/AWD vehicles are required.
What to wear and what to wear to enjoy Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea is higher in elevation than Mt,Even in summer, early morning and nighttime temperatures can be cold.
In addition to long sleeves, a jacket, and long pants, gloves and a body warmer are recommended.
Prepare sunscreen, sunglasses, and rain gear in case of strong sunlight!
Please note that pregnant women, those with heart problems, and those who have been drinking or diving within 12 hours should refrain from climbing the mountain.
Because tours may have age restrictions,Prior confirmation is requiredIt is.
Access
It is possible to drive to Mauna Kea, though,Participate in tours because of the risk of altitude sicknessLet's do it.
Also, even if you rent a car, most insurance does not cover the trip to Mauna Kea, and the roads are not all paved and some do not have guardrails.
Altitude sickness also makes driving impossible due to headache, nausea, and fatigue.
If a situation arises that calls for an ambulanceNote that there are also high medical costs.Let's do it.
Access: 60 minutes by car from Hilo International Airport
If you want to enjoy Mauna Kea safely
Taking a tour is highly recommended to get the most out of the tour.
When climbing a high mountain such as Mauna Kea, the atmospheric pressure is said to drop by 100 hPa with each 1000 m increase in elevation.
At the summit of Mauna Kea, the atmospheric pressure is about 60% of the level at sea level.
If you aim for the summit all at once just because the road continues to the top, you will go from hypoxia toDangerous due to possible altitude sickness.It is.
Tours are a little more expensive, though,If safety is a priority, taking a tour is the best choice.'It's good to be here'
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Mauna Kea Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
It is possible for individuals to go there with four-wheel drive vehicles, but there are unpaved roads, steep grades, and the risk of altitude sickness.
Because insurance coverage for rental cars is often not available, tour participation is recommended for beginners and first-time visitors.
The best time to visit is after sunset and into the evening.
Especially around the new moon, when there is little moonlight, the Milky Way and the stars in the sky can be viewed more beautifully.
Tours that include sunset to star gazing are also popular.
Warm clothing is essential, as the temperature at the summit can drop to near freezing even in mid-summer. In addition to long sleeves, long pants, and a jacket, gloves, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Care must be taken to maintain physical condition to prevent altitude sickness.
summary
On the Big Island of Hawaii, the largest of the Hawaiian Islands, where the climate and scenery vary greatly from area to area, you will find Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea Mountain, and the powerful Akaka Falls,Enjoy nature on a grand scale.
Mauna Kea, among others,A special place with one of the most beautiful starry skies in the world♪
The observatory is blessed with such observation conditions that many countries have set up observatories in the area, providing a star-filled sky that is difficult to find in Japan.
You can safely and easily participate by taking a tour, so please try it when you visit the Big Island of Hawaii.
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