All Reviews for Top Big Island Sights & Attractions

One of the reasons I decided to go to the Big Island was my desire to see the starry sky at Mauna Kea, so I was really looking forward to it. After participating, it was just as wonderful as I had hoped.

After being picked up at the hotel, we headed to the Onizuka Visitor Center in a 12-passenger van. It was enjoyable to hear our guide, Mr. Yamamoto, talk about the plants and animals that inhabit the Big Island, and we even encountered wild sheep and cows.

Upon arriving at the Onizuka Visitor Center, we took a break with a bento box and miso soup. Although it was an early dinner before sunset, the bento was luxurious, like a catered meal, and I was very satisfied.

Since the van was full, it felt cramped after putting on the borrowed warm clothing. However, once we reached the summit, the temperature was lower than I had imagined, and the warm clothing was much appreciated.

The observatory and the sea of clouds illuminated by the sunset at the summit were breathtaking! The sunset disappearing into the sea of clouds was nothing short of magical. After it got dark, I was able to gaze up at the starry sky, and it was incredibly moving. I was blessed with good weather and timing, and the starry sky without the moon was overwhelming. In the distance, I could faintly see the red glow of the Kilauea crater… I was able to feel the grandeur of nature.

It became a truly wonderful memory. Thank you very much!

ハワイ島に行くことにしたきっかけの一つが「マウナケアで星空が見たい！」という思いだったため、とても楽しみにしていました。実際に参加してみて、期待通り素晴らしかったです。

ホテルでピックアップしてもらった後、１２人乗りのバンでオニヅカビジターセンターに向かいました。ガイドの山本さんのハワイ島に生息する植物や動物のお話を聞きながら、実際に野生の羊や牛などに遭遇でき楽しかったです。

オニヅカビジターセンターに到着後、お弁当とお味噌汁で休憩。サンセット前ということでかなり早めの夕食でしたが、仕出し弁当のような豪華なお弁当で大満足でした。

バンは満席だったため、借りた防寒着を着て着ぶくれた後の車中は狭く感じました。ただ、山頂に上がってみると想像以上に気温は低く、防寒着はありがたかったです。

山頂で夕日に照らされる天文台や雲海は圧巻！
雲海に消えていく夕日は幻想的の一言に尽きます。
暗くなってからは、満天の星空を見上げることができて、とても感動しました。好天やタイミングに恵まれ、月がない星空の星明りに感無量。
遠くには、キラウェアの火口の赤い光もうっすら…！自然の壮大さを感じることができました。

大変いい思い出になりました。ありがとうございました！

Since it was my first time on the Big Island of Hawaii, I definitely wanted to see the sunset and the starry sky, so I found this tour and signed up immediately. During the drive, the guide shared various stories about the Big Island, and we arrived in no time. At the Onizuka Visitor Center, we enjoyed a bento box and miso soup. It was a bit disappointing that the miso soup was cold, but I was still happy to have it♪

As we headed to the summit, they provided us with warm clothing, including hats and gloves, so we could enjoy the sunset and the starry sky without feeling cold. The moment I got out of the car and saw so many stars that I had never seen before, I was truly moved! We took some photos, but the starry sky was so breathtaking that it couldn't be captured in pictures. I tried to imprint the view in my memory for as long as time allowed. I was so touched that I could have watched it forever!

On the Big Island, we visited various spots like Kilauea Volcano and Hapuna Beach, but the sunset and starry sky at Mauna Kea were the most impressive and became my favorite memory. So, if you go to the Big Island, I highly recommend participating in this tour! It's truly amazing☆

初めてのハワイ島だったので、絶対にサンセットと星空は見たいと思っていたところ、このツアーを見つけて即申込みました。
行きの車の中ではガイドさんがハワイ島の色々な話をしてくれてあっという間に到着しました。オニヅカビジターセンターではお弁当とみそ汁をいただきました。みそ汁が冷めていたのが少し残念でしたが、みそ汁は嬉しかったです♪
山頂に向かい、防寒具も帽子や手袋まで貸していただけたので寒さを感じずにサンセットから星空を観賞できました。車から降りて今まで見たことのないたくさんの星を見た瞬間、本当に感動しました！写真も撮っていただきましたが、写真では伝わらないほどの星空で時間が許す限り星空を目に焼きつけました。時間があればずっと見ていたいくらい本当に感動しました！
ハワイ島ではキラウェア火山やハプナビーチと色々なスポットに行きましたが、マウナケアのサンセットと星空が何よりも感動し、一番の思い出になりました。なので、ハワイ島に行ったらぜひ参加してみてください！本当にオススメです☆

I met Kevin for the first time in six years, and once again, I was able to enjoy kayaking comfortably. I was able to enter "Dragon's Throat," which I couldn't do before due to high waves, and the tour photos are a wonderful keepsake. I'm looking forward to participating again.

ケビンさんとは6年ぶりにお会いしましたが、今回も気持ちよくカヤックを楽しむことができました。以前は波が高くてはいれなかった「竜ののど」にもはいれましたし、ツアーの写真はとてもよい記念です。また参加できることを楽しみにしています。

The day I participated was the day before the new moon, so there was no moonlight, allowing us to see a truly spectacular starry sky. It was great to see the long-lived stars that you can't see in Japan. The explanation of the constellations was fun and entertaining, as they used a laser pointer to illustrate them. I would like to join the sunrise tour next time.

参加した日は新月の前日ということで月あかりもなくまさに降るような星空を見ることが出きました。日本では見ることのできない長寿の星も見れたのは良かったです。
星座の説明もレーザーポインターを使いながら面白おかしく説明してくれるので楽しかったです。次回は朝日のツアーに参加したいです。

The beauty of the orange sunset sinking into the white sea of clouds left me with a thrilling emotion, as the hazy view cleared up refreshingly in the thin air. Despite the strong light of the waning moon, I was captivated by the amusing and lively chatter of the guide, who shared stories about the faintly visible Milky Way and various constellations. I forgot the cold, and my childlike spirit was revived. It was a wonderful trip.

白い雲海に沈む夕陽のオレンジの美しさは、薄い空気でぼうっとしていた視界が一気に晴れた爽やかさと共に、心が震える感動を残してくれました。
下弦の月の強い光にも負けず、うっすらと見えた天の川や数々の星座にまつわる物語を語るガイドの方の可笑しく軽快なおしゃべりに聞き入ると、寒さも忘れて、童心が蘇って来ました。
良い旅になりました。

I participated in both the sunrise and sunset tours. I thought I might be a bit greedy, but it turned out to be the right decision. We were blessed with good weather and enjoyed the wonderful scenery. While it's common for the sun to rise and set, I was surprisingly moved to the point of almost tears, realizing how extraordinary something so ordinary can be.

I remembered a line from a picture book I read as a child: "The sun is always watching over you." It felt as if the sun was truly saying that to me. When the sun rises, it feels like it's saying, "Alright, go on your new adventure today," filling me with excitement and energy for the day ahead. When it sets, it feels like it's saying, "That's enough for today. This is good," allowing me to acknowledge both the good and the bad of the day with a gentle heart.

I've encountered views that made me feel small before, but this was the first time I felt that while also gaining the strength to strive harder. I felt empowered to do my best.

The reason I felt this way wasn't just because the scenery was amazing, but also because our guide, who truly loves the Big Island, treated us so well. Thanks to the guide's charm, my memories of Mauna Kea became truly wonderful. I hope that many more people will come to appreciate the beauty of the Big Island. Thank you very much.

サンライズとサンセット両方のツアーに参加しました。少し欲張りすぎかなと思いましたが、欲張って正解でした。お天気にも恵まれ素晴らしい景色を堪能しました。太陽が登り沈むことは当たりのことだけれど、当たり前のことがこんなに素晴らしいものかと、不思議と涙が出そうなほど感動しました。
「おてんとうさまはどんな時もあなたを見ているのよ。」子供の時に読んだ絵本の台詞を思い出し、本当におてんとうさまにそんな風に言われた気がしました。
太陽が登る時は、「さあ今日も新しい冒険に行ってらっしゃい」と言われているようで、これから始まる１日にわくわくするような活力が湧いてきて、
沈む時は、「今日はここまで。これでよし。」と言われているようで、その日１日の良かったところも悪かったところも認めてあげることができるような優しい気持ちになりました。

自分がちっぽけに思える景色は他にも出会ったことがありますが、自分を小さく感じるのと同時に、もっと頑張れる。頑張るんだ。と思える力が湧いてきたのは初めてです。

こんな風に感じられたのは、ただ景色が素晴らしかったからではなく、ハワイ島が大好きというガイドさんが本当に良くして下さったということもあると思います。ガイドさんの魅力も手伝って、マウナケアの思い出がとても素晴らしいものになりました。
これからもたくさんの人にハワイ島の魅力が伝わることを願っています。
本当にありがとうございました。

We were blessed with great weather and hardly any wind, making it a wonderful day. The journey to the Onizuka Visitor Center was enjoyable, as we stopped by lava plateaus and learned about various plants and creatures. I gained a lot of valuable knowledge that I wouldn't have known just by driving a rental car myself. The bento and miso soup were even more delicious than I expected. Although it was cold during the stargazing, I was very grateful for the warm tea and cookies provided by the staff. We were able to see shooting stars multiple times, which was truly moving. Honestly, I thought the price was high, but I'm really glad I participated.

お天気にも恵まれ、風もほとんどなくすばらしい一日でした。
オニヅカビジターセンターまでの道のりも、溶岩台地に立ち寄ったり植物や生き物の
お話など、楽しく過ごせました。自分でレンタカーで走るだけだと知らないことを、たくさん
教えていただき、有意義でした。
お弁当やおみそ汁も期待以上に美味しかったです。寒い中での星空観測のでしたが、温かい
紅茶やクッキーを用意していただき、スタッフの方のお気づかいもとてもうれしかったです。
流れ星も何度も見られ、感動の連続でした。
正直、お値段が高いと思っていましたが、参加して本当によかったと思っています。

The drive from the hotel to the Onizuka Visitor Center took about an hour, and it was very enjoyable to hear stories about the plants and animals that inhabit the Big Island of Hawaii. I felt the staff's attentiveness throughout the journey.

Along the way, we stopped to take pictures of the lava fields, making the trip to our destination quite fun. The lunch box and miso soup we had upon arriving at the Onizuka Visitor Center were delicious.

Regarding the restrooms, I think it's good to follow the instructions about their locations and timing (the staff provides appropriate advice).

At the summit, we were fortunate to have clear weather with no wind, resulting in a wonderful sunset. I was actually worried about my child (13 years old) who wasn't feeling well, but the guide's care and the oxygen bottle they brought along were very helpful. I really appreciated their support. It was my first experience using oxygen!

Even though it was cold during the sunset and stargazing, we were warm thanks to the provided clothing (it seemed that some participants from other tours did not have pants available for borrowing), which made it comfortable.

During the stargazing, the guide's explanations were thorough, easy to understand, and enjoyable. I was also delighted by the warm tea and cookies! We saw shooting stars multiple times during the star explanations, making it an emotional and memorable tour. I'm really glad I participated.

ホテルのピックアップからオニズカビジターセンターまで１時間くらいのドライブ中も、ハワイ島に生息する植物や動物のお話もとても楽しく、スタッフの方のお気づかいを感じました。
途中、溶岩台地も車から降りて撮影したり、到着までも十分楽しく過ごせました。
オニズカビジターセンター到着後にいただいたお弁当とおみそ汁も美味しかったです。
トイレについては、場所やタイミングも説明どおりに行っておくといいと思います。（適切にアドバイスしてくださいます）
山頂でも風もなくお天気に恵まれ、すばらしいサンセットでした。実は同行した子供（１３歳）が体調がすぐれず心配でしたが、ガイドさんのケアや持参されていた酸素ボトルも使わせていただいたりしました。大変お世話になりました。酸素吸引も初体験でした！！
寒い中でのサンセット＆星空観測でしたが、用意されてあったウエアのおかげで温かく（他のツアーの方はズボンの貸し出しがない方もいたようです）快適に過ごせました。
星空観測では、ガイドさんのお話も丁寧で分かりやすく楽しかったです。温かい紅茶やクッキーも嬉しかった！　星の説明の途中も何度も流れ星が見られて、感動がいっぱいのツアーでした。参加して本当によかったです。

I participated in a tour led by Mr. Matsuzaki on January 16, 2016. To put it simply, it was "the best." I don't think I've ever experienced a tour that was this enjoyable. The guide's humorous explanations and guidance made it a memorable experience, and I would love to participate again. This time it was a crescent moon, which was a bit bright, but next time I would like to join during the new moon, guided by Mr. Matsuzaki.

2016年1月16日にMatsuzakiさんによるツアーに参加しました。結論から言いますと”最高”でした。今回ほど楽しく過ごすことが出来たツアーは経験がないのではないでしょうか。ガイドさんのユーモアを交えた説明や案内、何度でも参加したいと思います。今回は三日月で少し明るかったですが、次回は新月の時に参加したいと思います、Matsuzakiさんのガイドで。

It was a 7:00 AM flight. Since I was staying at Mauna Lani, I chose a tour from Waikoloa, which was a bit pricey. The departure was just as the sunrise was happening, and the view of the sunrise from Mauna Kea was spectacular. The pilot was very kind, and we could see the lava and waterfalls up close from any seat. The guide spoke English and explained everything very clearly. The 1 hour and 40 minutes flew by. It’s tough to wake up early, but there’s a shuttle service to the hotel, and you can make the most of your day, so I highly recommend it. It’s a bit expensive, but I’m glad I decided to participate. I was very satisfied.

朝一番の7:00のフライトでした。マウナラニに泊まっていたので、少々高いのですがワイコロアからのツアーにしました。朝日が丁度昇る頃の出発だったので、マウナケアから昇る朝日が見事でした。パイロットの方がとても親切で、どの座席からも溶岩や滝を間近で見ることができました。ガイドも英語でしたが、とても分かりやすく話してくれました。1時間４０分があっという間でした。朝一番は大変ですが、ホテルまで送迎がありますし、その日を有意義ぬ使えるので、とてもオススメだと思います。チョットお高いですが、思い切って参加してよかったです。大満足でした。

I was quite moved when the whale suddenly appeared on the surface, even though it didn't show itself for a while!
The guide spoke in English, so I couldn't catch everything, but just being rocked by the large boat and looking at the vast ocean was very soothing.
We participated as a family with children, and it was great that the kids' tickets were free.

なかなか姿を見せてくれませんでしたが、突然クジラが水面に現れた時はとても感動しました！
ガイドが英語なので全ての内容は聞き取れませんでしたが、大きな船に揺られ、広い海を見ているだけでとても癒されます。
子連れ家族で参加しましたが、子供料金無料だったのが良かったです。

An unforgettable experience! Viewing flowing lava burning trees, the spots where the lava begins to flow, the breathtaking coastline of the Big Island with its many waterfalls, humpback whales from overhead, and the wonders of the island with the unbelievable views of every hue in the ocean's water= memories that will last a lifetime! Add a fabulous staff and the best pilot ever, and that's what you can expect.

We participated in a company trip with a group of six. The guide was a nice guy who spoke fluent Japanese and had an entertaining way of talking. During the journey to Mauna Kea, he frequently scheduled breaks and time for commemorative photos. He took pictures of each group with a good camera and provided a service where the photos would later be available for download on a blog.

The bento we had during the break was unexpectedly Japanese food. It wasn't extremely delicious, but eating together at a picnic table in the great nature of Hawaii made it taste much better.

As we climbed to the summit, the air became thinner and the temperature dropped, making me worry about altitude sickness, but I was fine. I heard that if you fall asleep in the car after reaching a high altitude, the risk of altitude sickness increases... It was tough to fight off the drowsiness.

The sea of clouds and sunset from the summit were very beautiful! To be able to drive up a mountain higher than Mount Fuji and see such a wonderful view was a great memory. The starry sky on the day we participated had strong moonlight, making it a bit difficult to see the stars. Still, with the guide's rich knowledge of constellations, we enjoyed it thoroughly.

While some people might go by rental car, the roads near the summit are quite rough. I think it was a good decision to leave it to the experienced guide for a safe and enjoyable tour. Thank you, Sue!

社員旅行６名グループで参加させていただきました。
ガイドさんは日本語ぺらぺらでトークもおもしろいナイスガイ。
マウナケアまでの道中も度々休憩と記念撮影用に時間を設けてくれます。ガイドさんは良いカメラでグループ毎に写真を撮ってくれるし、後にダウンロード可能な状態でブログに掲載してくれるというサービス付きです。
休憩時にいただいたお弁当は何故か日本食でした。すごく美味しい！というものではありませんでしたが(笑)、ハワイの大自然の中ピクニックテーブルでみんなで食べているというマジックでとても美味しく感じました。

山頂に登るに連れ、空気が薄くなり気温も下がり、高山病にならないか心配でしたが、大丈夫でした。標高が高くなって以降に車内で寝てしまうと高山病のリスクが高まるらしいです…その眠気と闘うことが大変でした。
山頂から見る雲海、夕陽はとても綺麗です！
富士山より高い山に車でラクラクと登り、素晴らしい景色を観ることができるなんて！とても良い思い出になりました。
星空は我々が参加した日は月明かりの強い日で、少し星が見えづらい様子。それでも、星座の知識豊富なガイドさんの説明もあり、十分楽しめました。
レンタカーで自力で行く人もいるようですが、山頂付近はかなりの悪路です。経験豊富なガイドさんにお任せして、安全に楽しく観光できよかったと思います。
スーさん、ありがとう！

The doors off tour was incredible and well worth the price! I highly recommend this tour to anyone that wants to get a real helicopter volcano tour!

On that day, we arrived early at the port with our rental car, and the office was already open, where a friendly woman at the reception welcomed us. With both of us excited for our first ocean rafting and snorkeling experience, the Captain Zodiac set off into the waves with the four of us, including an American couple. Captain Andy was easygoing and very approachable, making it hard to believe we had just met, as he shared various stories and jokes with us. Unfortunately, the sea was rough, and it felt like we could be thrown overboard if we didn't hold on tightly, but my wife seemed to be enjoying the thrill. Along the way, we encountered a pod of dolphins, and since we were beginners, we were excitedly searching for dolphins from the boat, while the American couple, being more experienced, swam happily around the dolphins. After that, we reached a calm bay where we could go snorkeling. Looking at the seabed, we saw various fish swimming gracefully, and it truly felt like we had come to the Big Island of Hawaii! Captain Andy provided sandwiches and fruit, and the meal enjoyed on the water was very delicious. As we headed back while looking at the shore from the boat, we spotted a whale in the distance, and everyone let out excited cheers. The waves were still high, and the wind was strong, making it feel like we were on a roller coaster the whole time. To be honest, by the end, I was tired, but when we arrived at the port, I felt a sense of relief at our safe arrival and wanted to thank Captain Andy for the thrilling boat trip and the opportunity to enjoy the great nature of the Big Island!

その日はレンタカーで早めに港に着いたが、事務所はすでに開いていて、受付の女性がフレンドリーに迎えてくれました。初めてのオーシャンラフティングとシュノーケリングに夫婦そろって期待が高まる中、キャプテン・ゾディアック号はアメリカ人夫婦と私達の４名を乗せ波の中に出発したのです。キャプテンのアンディーは気さくで非常に親しみやすく初めて会ったとは思えないほど、ジョークを交えいろいろな話をしてくれました。あいにく海は荒れていて、しっかりとつかまっていないと海に放り出されてしまいそうでしたが、妻はのそスリルを楽しんでいる様子でした。途中イルカの群れに遭遇したが、我々は初心者だったので船上から感激してイルカを探し、アメリカ人夫婦は経験者だったので楽しそうにイルカの周りを泳いでいました。その後静かな湾に着いてシュノーケリングをすることができました。海底を見ると色々な魚が群れをなして優雅に泳いでいて　まさにハワイ島に来た！という実感を味わえました。キャプテンがサンドイッチやフルーツを出してくれて、海の上で食べる食事はとてもおいしかったです。ボートから岸を見ながら帰途に就いたが、遠くにクジラも見つけみんな感激の雄叫びをあけていました。波は相変わらず高く風も強くてまるでジェットコースターにずーっと乗っているようで、正直なところ最後の方は疲れたけれど、港に着いた時は無事到着した安心感と同時にキャプテン・アンディーにスリリングな船旅とハワイ島の大自然を満喫させてもらいありがとう！

Thank you for an unforgettable day.

I was a bit anxious about the meeting point since I was staying at the Care Hawaii condo, but I was picked up right at the entrance of the condo.

I honestly didn't have high expectations for the bento, but I was surprised by how much it exceeded my expectations.

At the visitor center, various tour companies were eating their bentos, but ours was the best!!!

The highlight was that there were no disposable containers used at all.

Other companies used disposable plastic containers and paper cups, but here, we had beautiful bento boxes, bowls, and cups.

Even though it was a bit challenging to take them home, it was great to have such a wonderful approach for a tour that allows us to enjoy our beautiful planet.

The sunset and starry sky from the summit of Mauna Kea were breathtaking and will be unforgettable for a lifetime.

We were lucky to have great weather that day, and we could clearly see the summit of Haleakalā on Maui and the red crater of Kīlauea.

Lying down to watch the starry sky felt like being in space, and it truly seemed like the stars were falling.

The photos available for free download were well set up to capture not only the stars but also Kīlauea, which was great, but it was a bit disappointing that the company's name was included at the bottom of the photos...

If there had been no name on the photos, I would have considered it a perfect tour!

The guide, Mr. Konno, provided excellent guidance and photo techniques, which enhanced the experience.

He had clearly studied a lot about the island and constellations, and thanks to Mr. Konno's guidance, it was a fun tour.

I am grateful that I could drive to a high mountain without walking and feel the beauty of our planet.

感動の一日をありがとうございました。

ケアホウのコンドに滞在だったので
集合場所が不安だったのですが
コンドの入口まで迎えに来て頂けました。


お弁当は正直期待していなかったのですが
期待以上のお弁当にビックリでした。

ビジターセンターでは
色々なツアー会社がお弁当を
食べていましたが
私達のお弁当が一番でした！！！

一番のポイントは
使い捨ての容器は一切使っていない事。

他社は使い捨ての
プラ容器や紙コップでしたが
ココはステキなお弁当箱にお椀にカップ。

持ち帰りが大変でも
美しい地球を楽しむツアーとしては
最高の対応をされていのも良かったです。



マウナケア山頂からの
サンセットも星空も
一生忘れられない景色に大感動でした。


この日は天気に恵まれて
マウイ島のハレアカラの山頂や
キラウエアの赤い火口まで
しっかり見えてラッキーでした★

寝転がってみた星空は
宇宙にいるような感覚で
本当に星がふってくるようでした。


無料でダウンロード出来る写真には
星だけでなく
しっかりキラウエアまで写るよう
セッティングされていて良かったのですが
写真の下に会社の名前等々入っているのが
ちょっと残念でした…

写真に名前が無かったら
満点のツアーだったと思います！



ガイドのKonnoさんの
ガイドアナウンスも写真テクニックも
素晴らしく感動が増しました。

島の事や星座の事をすごくお勉強されていて
Konnnoさんのガイドがあったからこそ
楽しいツアーでした。

歩かずに高い山に車で行けて
素晴らしい地球を感じられた事に感謝です。

The 4 of us had a GREAT time - Nobody at home could believe I did the one over the falls! I am not real good with heights! Would definitely recommend to anyone who is the least bit adventurous!!

An extremely informative tour, friendly and knowledgeable tour guide. The tour bus is slightly crammed. A lifetime experience.

Visiting Mauna Kea was the main reason for my trip to Hawai'i and it was worth it! Our guide was informative (I wish I could of recorded everything he said) and I learnt alot, not just about the mountain and the island but about astronomy and rock formations etc.
A long day but worth having a tour as it takes the stress out of driving at high-altitude and you learn more by having a guide who visits the area daily.

It was my first time on the Big Island, so I thought I absolutely couldn't miss the sunset and starry sky. I found the perfect tour and signed up immediately. Our guide, Kon-chan, was friendly and attentive. At the photo spots, he always took pictures of my husband and me together, suggesting poses like "let's jump!" which resulted in some truly memorable photos. Along the way, he stopped at various sightseeing spots, making it feel like a great deal!

I was a bit worried about my health since we were climbing Mauna Kea to see the sunset and stars, but he took his time, so it was no problem at all. The bento was decent, but the miso soup was warm and delicious!

The weather was excellent that day, but it was very windy and cold. Thanks to the warm clothing they provided, I managed to be okay, but I think it's better to prepare well on my own too.

The sunset was beautiful after waiting in the strong wind. It goes down so quickly that you can't afford to miss a moment. After sunset, the full moon was bright and shining, so the starry sky felt a bit lacking, but I was captivated by Kon-chan's stories about constellations, reminiscing about long ago, and I was able to see shooting stars and satellites, so I was very satisfied overall.

I truly had a wonderful time. I want to come back next time when the moon is less visible in the summer.

初めてのハワイ島でしたので、絶対にサンセットと星空は外せないと思っていたところ、ぴったりのツアーを見つけて即申込みました。ガイドさんは気さくで気がきくこんちゃんさんでした。写真スポットでは必ず主人と2人で撮ってくれて、飛んでみましょうとか、ポーズのアドバイスをしてくれてとても思い出深い写真がとれました。道中でも様々な観光スポットにとまってくれたので、なんだかとてもお得な気分です！
サンセットと星空を見るのにマウナケアに登るので体調が少し心配でしたが、ゆっくり時間をかけてくれたので全く問題ありませんでした。お弁当はまずまずという感じですが、おみそ汁が温かくて美味しかったです！
当日は天気は抜群に良かったのですが、風がとても強く寒かったです。貸して下さった防寒着のおかげでなんとか大丈夫でしたが、自分でもしっかり準備しておいた方がいいと思いました。
サンセットは強風の中待ったかいがあってとてもキレイでした。あっという間に沈んでしまうので一瞬も見逃せないです。
日没後は満月が近く月が明るく輝いていたので、星空はちょっぴり物足りない感じでしたが、こんちゃんさんの星座の話に引き込まれ遥か昔に思いを馳せたり、流れ星や人工衛星を見ることができたので結果とても大満足です。
本当に楽しく過ごせました。次は夏の月があまり出ていない時にまた来たいです。

I participated in this tour on December 29. When I arrived at the summit of Mauna Kea, I suddenly felt unwell due to mild altitude sickness, which worried me. However, I gradually acclimated, and by the time we were stargazing, I had recovered. The beauty of the night sky was so breathtaking that I completely forgot about feeling unwell. I love stargazing in Japan and have seen various sights, but nothing compares to this! The number of stars, the clarity of the air, and the lack of light pollution are incredible. I heard that even airplanes are restricted from flying in the area. The abundance of satellites and shooting stars was also moving; it was a unique experience like no other, perfect for stargazing enthusiasts! I would love to participate again in the summer to see the Milky Way.

12月29日に本ツアーに参加させていただきました。
マウナケア山頂に到着した時には軽い高原病で体調が急に悪くなり心配しましたが、徐々に慣れ星空観測時には体調も回復、あまりの星空の美しさに体調が悪かった事など忘れてしまうほどでした。日本でも星空が好きで色々と見てきましたが、日本とは、とても比較にならない！星の多さ、空気の透明感、光害の無さ、飛行機までも飛行制限されているそうで、人口衛生の多さと流れ星の多さに、また感動、ちょっと今までに無い体験ができました、星空好きにはたまりません！！またいければ夏に天の川目当てに参加したいです。

Since you can only access the summit of Mauna Kea through a tour, I participated in one, but we could only go partway due to icy road conditions and ended up just watching the starry sky before returning. It's really disappointing that we couldn't reach the summit, as you can drive partway there with a rental car.

マウナケア山頂はツアーでないといけないため、ツアーに参加しましたが、ちょうど路面凍結して途中までしか行けず、星空を見て帰ってきました。途中までならレンタカーでも行けるため、山頂に行けなかったのがすごく残念でした。

The experience was really great!
The views were amaizing!
I recomend this experience!

We were blessed with great weather and were able to see the best sunset. The bento and miso soup distributed at the Onizuka Center were truly delicious, just like the day itself.

The two guides were cheerful and very friendly. It was rare to see such a starry sky, and I learned a lot about constellations. The dreamy constellation guide was incredibly knowledgeable, and I discovered many new things. I still remember that I could see all of my favorite constellation, Orion.

It was quite cold, so I definitely think it's better to dress warmly.

お天気に恵まれ、最高のサンセットを見ることができました。鬼塚センターで配られたお弁当とお味噌汁は、日そのもので実においしかった。
２名のガイドさんが陽気な方たちで、とてもフレンドリー。あんな満天の星空はなかなかみられないとともに、大変星座に詳しくなりました。なんか夢のある星座ガイドは実に詳しいものであり、初めて知ることが多かったです。とにかく、私の好きなオリオン座のすべてが見えたのは今も覚えている。
かなり寒いので、厚着のほうが絶対いいと思った。

Departure day on December 30, 2015, waiting for hotel pickup.

S-Fan appears.

Fluent in Japanese (the reason is a secret to avoid spoilers).

Thorough checks to confirm whether they are a celebrity.

The conversation in the car is solid.

Stopping at various places for commemorative photos.

At the summit of Mauna Kea.

Driving along the mountain road while taking measures against altitude sickness with water and chocolate.

It seems warmer than usual, but at 4,000 meters, it feels like a typical Japanese winter.

However, I’m well-prepared with five layers on top and four on the bottom.

A few foreigners are just in leggings, quite strong.

They gaze at the sunset without concern, but I still want to capture it in a photo.

I receive one-on-one instruction on how to take photos (grateful for the help).

Time flies by.

Before I know it, most participants other than Masashi's tour have descended.

The sun has completely set, and the sky is changing to deeper colors.

"I really want everyone to see this~~"

I'm so glad I got to see it.

Descending a bit from the summit for stargazing.

Quite a strong wind.

Setting up windbreaks with two cars.

Waiting for the sun to fully set with warm drinks and cookies.

With no moonlight, it seems to be in the same state as a new moon for a few hours (is that a possibility?).

Slowly, the sky fills with stars.

Seeing the speed of satellites is quite shocking.

Yo's stargazing school.

Sirius appears bluish-white, Aldebaran looks reddish, very clear.

I learn that my zodiac sign is Gemini and that my brother is immortal.

I discover that Orion is three times larger than I thought.

Due to the season, those constellations that aren't visible in the night sky receive unfortunate news, so checking in advance is wise.

Nine hours pass in the blink of an eye.

On the way back, I fall into a deep sleep.

I'm sure the conversation in the car on the way back was lively too, but that will be for another time.

Mahalo.

2015/12/30 出発の日　ホテルお迎えを待つ

Sファンさん登場

日本語がスラスラ　（ネタばれしないため理由は秘密）

芸能人かどうかの念入り確認もかかさない

車中のトークも盤石

いろんな場所で車をとめて　記念撮影



マウナケア山頂

水とチョコで　高山病対策をしつつ　山道をドライブ

例年より暖かいそうだが　４０００ｍ級　普通に日本の真冬

しかし　上５枚　下４枚　防寒装備にぬかりなし

数名の外国人はレギンスいっちょ　強い

気にせず夕日を見つめるが　やはり写真にもおさめたい

カメラの取り方をマンツーマンでレクチャーしもらう（もらえたことに感謝）

そんなかんなで　時間はどんどんすぎる

気付けば　マサシツアー以外の参加者はほとんど下山

夕日は沈みきり　空はどんどん深い色に変化する

「みなさんにはこれを見てもらいたいんですよ～～」

ほんとに見れて良かった


山頂を少し下って星空観察

なかなかの強風

車２台で風除けをセッティング

暖かい飲物とクッキーで太陽が沈みきるのを待つ

月明かりがない　数時間は新月と同じ状態になるみたい　（そのパターンもあるのか！）

ゆっくりと満天になっていく

人工衛星のスピードはみるとビビる

Yoさんの星空スクール

シリウスが青白っぽい　アルデバランが赤っぽい　くっきりわかる

私はふたご座　弟が不死身であることを知る

オリオン座　思っていたより３倍大きいことを知る

季節がら　夜空に上がっていない星座の方は残念なお知らせを受けるので事前チェックが吉


あっというまの９時間

岐路は爆睡

きっと帰りの車中も軽快トークだったはずだが

それはまたの機会ということで

マハロ

The pickup from the hotel is convenient. I greatly enjoyed the humpback whales and the sunset, and the staff were very service-oriented, making it easy to have a great time even alone. Since the tour is in English, it's more enjoyable if you understand English.

ホテルからのピックアップが便利です。ザトウ鯨とサンセット、スタッフの方々のサービス精神も旺盛で１人でも大いに楽しめました。英語でのツアーですので、英語がわかるほうが楽しめます。

The bento was not great, but the driver was kind and funny, which made it very enjoyable. I was glad that we could take photos at the photo spots. I considered renting a 4WD, and although the weather was very nice, the summit, which is higher than Mount Fuji, was very cold, and during the journey, I was battling sleepiness. If I had gone with a lighthearted attitude, it would have turned into quite a challenge.

お弁当はいまいちでしたが、ドライバーさんも親切で面白い方で、とても楽しかったです。
写真ポイントでは必ず写真も撮っていただけて良かったと思います。
四駆車を借りていこうとも考えましたが、とても良い天気でしたが、
富士山より高い山頂はとても寒く、移動中は眠さとの戦いなので、
軽い気持ちで行っていたら大変なことになっていたと思います。

There were four adults participating (my husband and I, along with my niece and her husband). The weather on the day was very nice, not as hot as I had expected, making it a wonderful day for rafting. We were the only Japanese participants, but the woman at the tour company's office was very kind and accommodating. I needed prescription goggles for the water, but I forgot to request them when I made the reservation. However, I called the day before, and they managed to have them ready for me.

The snorkeling was a bit different from what I had imagined. I was expecting a clearer sea, but it was murkier than I thought. Perhaps it was due to the location? They provided the necessary goggles for snorkeling, but they were old, and I experienced some water leakage, which meant I had to clear the water several times, so I ended up getting out early. If I had brought my own perfect-fitting gear, I might have enjoyed it more. The lunch was delicious! Eating burgers and fruit on the water was exceptional.

I have relied on VELTRA's tours several times, so I felt comfortable trusting them. Next time, I would like to participate in a different tour.

おとな４人（私たち夫婦と姪夫婦）の参加でした。当日はとても天気が良く思っていたほど暑くもなく素晴らしいラフティング日和でした。日本人の参加者は私たち４人だけでしたがツアー催行会社の事務所の女性がとても親切に対応してくれました。水中眼鏡の度が入ったものが必要だったのですが予約の時に頼み忘れてしまっていたのですが、前日電話でお願いし何とか間に合わせていただきました。
シュノーケルのほうは私が思っていたのとはちょっと違っていました。というのももっときれいな海を想像していたのですが思ってより濁っていたのです。場所のせいでしょうか？それからシュノーケルに必要なメガネなどは貸していただけるのですが古いせいでしょうか水漏れがして何度も水を抜く必要があったので私は早めに上がってしまいました。自分にぴったりのものを持っていけばもっと楽しめたのかも・・。ランチはおいしかったですよ！
バーガーもフルーツも海の上で食べるのは格別でした。
VELTRAさんのツアーには何度かお世話になっているので安心して頼むことができました。
次回は他のツアーに参加したいと思っています。

Our cruise was very enjoyable, short though, didn't take long for the sun to go down. The boats captain was very friendly, knowledgeable, and did his best show us the sights in the area, but once the sun is gone, not much more to see after that. All-in-all we enjoyed our outing very much. Any day on the water is a good day.

It's a mountain higher than Mount Fuji. You can get there by rental car, but the thought of not having an oxygen tank if you get altitude sickness is chilling. I don't think this would be allowed in Japan. If you're prepared to face the dangers, I won't stop you, but I absolutely recommend going on a tour for the sake of safety. They have extensive knowledge about cameras, so they can teach you how to take photos with the camera you bring. For those interested in constellations, the explanations are very easy to understand, and you'll create lifelong memories by seeing the natural planetarium. The local staff are friendly, humorous, and all around great people. The reason for the four stars is the poor exchange rate. It says $170, but the actual amount I paid in Japanese yen was 21,542 yen. This company has its own exchange rate, so please be careful when applying for the tour.

富士山より標高が高い山です。
レンタカーでも行けますが、もし高山病になった場合、酸素ボンベが無いと思うとぞっとします。
これが日本なら絶対に許可が出てないと思います。
危険覚悟で行くなら止めませんが、安全をお金で買うという意味で絶対にツアーで行く事をお薦めします。
カメラの知識も豊富なので持って行ったカメラで撮る方法等教えてもらえます。
星座に興味のある人にはとても分かり易く、そして自然のプラネタリウムを見ての説明に一生の想い出を作る事が出来るでしょう。
現地スタッフは気さくで、とてもユーモアありトークも楽しく良い人ばかりです。
星４つの理由は換金率が悪いからです。
170ドルと書かれていますが、実際に日本円で支払った金額は21542円です。
この会社独自の換金レートがありますので、このあたりを気をつけてツアーの申し込みをして下さい。