All Reviews for Outdoor Adventures

I travel to Oahu every year, but this was my second time on Maui. This time, my goal was to see the stars at Haleakalā. I received polite replies to detailed inquiries about the probability of seeing the stars via email in advance, which made me feel at ease despite the nature of the experience. However, due to a dispute in the U.S. Congress, we couldn't reach the summit (3055m) and had to view the stars from around 2000m at the entrance. Nevertheless, the night sky and the stars were incredibly beautiful, and I felt the smallness of myself in the universe. Above all, I was moved by the storytelling and presentation by the owner, Mr. Yamauchi. There may be a relationship between the tour company and guests, but the thoughtful attention to detail allowed us to relax and enjoy the short time we had. From the hotel pickup at 3 PM to heading to Haleakalā, we stopped at places like tea time and gift shops that individuals wouldn't typically visit. I want to go again next year! I highly recommend this tour to everyone; it’s a life-changing experience. ...Studying the stars in advance might make it even more enjoyable.

毎年オアフ島へは旅行で行ってますが、マウイ島は２回目。今回はハレアカラの星を見るのが目的でした。事前にメールで見られる確率は何パーセントだのなんだの細かい問い合わせにも丁寧な返信をいただき、自然相手にもかかわらず安心して行ったのですが、米国議会の揉め事で山頂（3055ｍ）まで行けず、入口の2000ｍ付近での鑑賞となりました。しかし、夜空も星も素晴らしくきれいで、宇宙の中の自分の小ささを感じました。何よりもオーナー山内さんの語り、演出に感動です。ツアー会社とゲストとの関係はあるかもしれませんが、短い時間に気持ちを和ませて参加できる、細かい心配りは最高でした。ＰＭ３時にホテルピックアップからハレアカラに向かうまで、ティータイムやギフトショップなど個人では行けない場所へも立ち寄ってくれます。来年も又行きたい！そして、皆さんにも是非参加いただきたい、人生観が変わるツアーです。・・・事前に星を勉強していくと一層楽しいかも。

Next, if I could participate in just one thing in Hawaii, it would definitely be this! It's an experience that everyone envies! It's something only those who have done it can understand. Since the North Shore is nearby, I think it's a good idea to rent a car, visit the North Shore, and then head back.

次，ハワイに行って何か一つだけ参加できると言われれば絶対これです！誰もが羨む体験をできます！やった人にしかわからない体験です．近くにはノースショアも近いのでレンタカーで行って，ノースショア巡って帰るのが良いと思います．

The Japanese tour was fully booked, so I joined this one. There was only one Japanese participant, but the guide was very considerate and tried to understand my broken English, which made it a lot of fun.

日本語ツアーが満杯だったので、こちらに参加しました。日本人一人参加でしたがつたない英語を理解しようとガイドさんが気遣ってくれてとても楽しかったです。

For our 25th wedding anniversary, we visited the Big Island for the first time! On August 29th, the sunset and stargazing from the summit of Mauna Kea exceeded all our expectations. When the shadow of the Earth rose above the summit right after sunset, it was so mystical that it gave me goosebumps. Thank you for the wonderful memories!

結婚25年の記念に初ハワイ島！
8月29日。マウナケア山頂のサンセットも星空も予想をはるかに超える素晴らしさに感激でしたが、サンセット直後の地球の影がマウナケア山頂の上に浮かび上がった時は、その神秘さに鳥肌が立つ思いでした。
素敵に思い出を、ありがとう！

Last year, I participated in a horseback riding tour that went up Waipi'o Valley, so this year I joined a tour that explored the valley below, and the lower course was definitely more fun!
In particular, crossing a river that was about waist-deep on the horse, with my feet lifted up in the stirrups, was truly thrilling and enjoyable.
I have a British-style riding license, but I found Western riding to be very enjoyable as well.
The staff brought a lot of organic fruits like avocados and starfruit to share with us.
The horses were well-trained, so I felt safe while riding.
They were all very well-behaved horses.
I highly recommend it!!

去年はワイピオ渓谷を登っていく乗馬ツアーに参加したので、今年は渓谷の下を散策するツアーに参加しましたが、下のコースの方が断然楽しいです！
特に、馬の腰ぐらいまである深さの川を、足を鐙ごと上にあげて川を渡ったのは本当にスリリングで楽しかったです。
ブリティッシュスタイルのライセンスを持っている私ですが、ウエスタン乗りも非常に楽しかったです。
スタッフがアボガドやスターフルーツなどオーガニックフルーツをたくさん採ってきて振舞ってくれます。
お馬も良く調教されてるから、安心してライディングできました。
おりこうなお馬ばかりでした。
とてもおススメです！！

My wife rode a horse for the first time, and it was so much fun riding through Waipi'o Valley that her worries before getting on the horse seemed like a lie.

嫁は初めて馬に乗りましたが、馬に乗る前の心配が嘘のように、楽しくワイピオ渓谷を馬に乗って楽しめました。

My daughter and I really enjoyed horseback riding through Waipio Valley. Just be warned that if it is the dry sesson, you won't see any waterfalls. We did see lots of water though in addition to taro fields, wild horses and plenty of beautiful scenery. Our guides, Dava and Robert were entertaining, yet professional. I highly recommend this tour, as many people try to hike down into the valley and don't get far. Then they have to walk back up that very steep road! One warning. Do wear long pants or some sort of insect repellant. We were told there were no mosquitos but my daughter and I both returned with lots of bites.

Very informative and interesting. Only suggestion would be to include water shoes in the items to bring as the waterfalls are very rocky on the bottom and hurt your feet.

It's hard to see the starry sky in urban areas of Japan, but I was glad to be able to see it while being shown various constellations and the Milky Way. I was worried about getting altitude sickness at a higher elevation than Mount Fuji, but I was completely fine. The sunset over the sea of clouds was also beautiful. On the way down the mountain, I was able to see a white rainbow as well.

日本の市街地ではなかなか星空を見ることができませんが、銀河やいろんな星座を指し示してもらいながら見られて良かったです。富士山より高い標高で高山病になりはしないかと心配しましたが、全然大丈夫でした。雲海に沈む太陽も良かったです。山から下りて行く途中で白い虹も見ることができました。

It was a day close to the new moon, but thin clouds covered the sky. Still, I was able to see the Milky Way. The guides, Mr. Yamamoto and Mr. Matsuzaki, were lively in their storytelling, which allowed us to relax and enjoy the experience throughout. The thin air made it a bit tough, but I managed as long as I stayed still. The sunset was truly fiery, and I thought to myself, is this what heaven is like?

The thermal suit was great. I'm sensitive to the cold, so I wore a sweater and bought a hot pack at the Onizuka Center. Thanks to this thermal suit, I was able to observe the starry sky at a higher altitude than other tours, but on this day, the view was clearer when we descended to the Onizuka Center due to the clouds. Still, since all tours watch the sunset from the summit, I think wearing the suit was the right choice.

せっかく新月に近い日でしたが、薄い雲がかかってしまいました。それでも天の川は見えました。ガイドの山本さんと松崎さんのお話も軽快で、終始リラックスして楽しむことができました。酸素が薄くて少し辛かったですが、じっとしていればなんとかしのげました。夕焼けはまさに燃える様で、天国ってこんなところかしらと思いました。
つなぎの防寒着は良かったです。私は寒がりなので、セーターも着て、オニヅカセンターでホッカイロも一枚買いました。この防寒着のおかげで他のツアーより高い所で星空観測できるそうですが、この日は雲に左右されたので、オニヅカセンターに降りてきたときのほうがきれいに見えました。それでも、夕日はどのツアーも頂上で観るので、つなぎは正解だと思いました。

We participated in a 1.5-hour course with a group of five, including two of us and three American family members. We leisurely progressed in a single line through a very spacious and pleasant ranch. Perhaps because there were children, we mostly walked at a slow pace. They also gave us time to stop and take photos along the way. The riding time was exactly one and a half hours. It was fun, but I thought that a 2.5-hour ride might get boring.

私達2名、アメリカ人の親子グループ3名の計5名で、1.5時間コースに参加しました。とても広々として気持ちの良い牧場を、概ね1列になってのんびり進みます。お子さんもいたからかほとんど並足でした。途中立ち止まって写真を撮る時間も取ってくれます。乗っている時間はちょうど1時間半でした。楽しいですが、2.5時間だと飽きるかもしれないと思いました。

I was looking forward to visiting the summit of Haleakalā, but I couldn't enter due to a stop by the U.S. government, and now I don't know why I even went. It's really disappointing and frustrating since it's not a trip I can make often.

楽しみにしていたハレアカラ山頂にアメリカ政府のストップで入山出来ず何しに行ったのか分かりません。そうそう何度も行ける旅行ではないので物凄く残念で口惜しいです。

Jason & Ezra were excellent guides!! My Husband and I had a Great time!! My Favorite excursion of our visit!! Crazy Fun Zipping through the trees!!!!!!!

I participated because I wanted to feel the stars and nature. The stars were wonderful, but I was also able to feel the sun, earth, light, and shadow, and it made me realize once again how amazing it is to be alive. I want to live each day with gratitude as a part of the nature that breathes alongside me. Additionally, the guide was great. There was a slight sense that he was immersed in his own world, but his desire to ensure the guests enjoyed themselves was clearly conveyed. I believe he is someone who lives with pride and does not hesitate to put in effort. I was very moved. I want to express my gratitude.

星と自然を感じたくて参加しました。星も素晴らしかったですが太陽・地球・光・影を感じることができ、生きているって素晴らしいと改めて思いました。そして自分も呼吸する自然の一部として、毎日を感謝しながら生きていきたいと思いました。更にガイドさんが良かった。若干ご自分の世界に入り込んでいる感はあったのですが、それを含めてゲストに楽しんで貰おうという気持ちは充分伝わってきました。きっと誇りを持って努力も惜しまず生きている方なのだろうと思います。とても感動しました。ありがとうございましたと伝えたいです。

I participated after being recommended by an acquaintance I met before, and it was a lot of fun. Also, there are many places to stop by from Waikiki to here, so if you're going by rental car, you can enjoy a full day.

前に行った知り合いに勧められて参加しましたが、とても楽しかったです。又、ワイキキからここまでは立ち寄る所も多くレンタカーで行かれるなら一日満喫できます。

This was my first time participating. I thought that because a front was coming in, there would be clouds both above and below, so while the sunset would be nice, I didn't expect much from the stars. However, I was quite surprised to see them clearly. Mauna Kea really does have great weather. Conversely, in Japan (I live in Osaka), the air might be so polluted that it's always cloudy.

Our guide, Matsuzaki, mentioned he was in his third year, but I was impressed by how much he had studied. He continuously provided various explanations during the drive and even lay down on the ground to take photos, showing his dedication.

【A few notes】
- You can borrow a set of thermal clothing, including a jacket. I brought a thick thermal outfit, so I ended up feeling quite bulky. Thin, warm items like Heattech underwear are preferable.
- The women's restroom at the Onizuka Center gets crowded due to bookings with other tours. You can get your bento and miso soup here, so it's best to change as early as possible.
- Since we had an early dinner, I was a bit hungry as a big eater and bought a late-night snack at a shop we stopped by on the way back. My companions are also big eaters, but perhaps due to a bit of oxygen shortage, they didn't seem to want to eat much.
- Dinner consisted of a simple bento and miso soup. Other tours had Hawaiian sushi and lasagna, as shown in the photos for reference.
- The way they took commemorative photos was quite creative, as expected. My photo lacked a bit of flash power but had a nice silhouette. It's great that we can also download the guide's photos.

I've experienced sunsets from the summits of various mountains in Japan many times, but in Hawaii, the air clarity is unmatched. Additionally, the thrill of driving up to such an elevation all at once is unique to the Big Island. You reach the top so quickly that you don't really feel the height, but it's a height that would have been a life-threatening challenge in the past. One should truly appreciate this altitude. (What was I doing back then, climbing with heavy loads in the mountain club?)

I believe the tour is worth the price alone. You can't reach the summit by rental car, and the knowledge you gain is on a different level of impact. I highly recommend a Japanese guide for those who are not confident in their English.

はじめての参加。前線が来ていたため、上空にも下層にも雲があって、夕陽にはいいが星には期待できないだろうと思っていたのに、けっこう見えて驚きました。マウナケアって、ホント天気がいい所なんですね。逆にいうと、日本（私は大阪在住）はいつでも雲の中というくらい空気が汚いのかもしれません。ガイドの松崎さんは３年目との事でしたが、色々勉強されていて感心しました。車中でも途切れずいろんな説明をされたり、地面にねころんで写真をとって下さったりして、一生懸命なのが伝わってきました。

【ちょっと一言】
・つなぎと上着セットの防寒着を貸してもらえます。
　　私は分厚い防寒着を持参したので、モコモコになっちゃいました。
　　ヒートテックの下着など、薄くて暖かいものがいいです。
・オニヅカセンターの女性用トイレは、他ツアーとブッキングするので、
　　行列になります。ここでお弁当と味噌汁をもらうのですが、
　　できるだけ早い目に着替えたほうがいいです。
・早い夕食で、大食いの私はちょっとおなかがすいて、
　　帰りに立ち寄ったお店で夜食を買いました。
　　同行者も大食いですが、ちょい酸素不足になったためか、
　　すかなかったようです。
・夕食は簡単幕の内と味噌汁。他ツアーはハワイ寿司やラザニアなどでした。
　　写真、ご参考に。
・記念写真の撮り方は、色々工夫されていて、さすがでした。
　　私の写真はフラッシュの力がちょっと不足でしたが、いいシルエット。
　　ガイドさんさんの写真もダウンロードできるので、ありがたいです。

日本の山は色々登って山頂からのサンセットは何度も体験しましたが、ハワイは空気のぼやけがない。また、これだけの海抜を車で一気に登る豪快さはハワイ島ならではです。あっというまに頂上に行ってしまうので、高さの実感がわかないのですが、昔なら命がけで挑戦した高さ。心してこの高度を味わうべきです。（山岳部で重い荷物を背負ってヒーヒー言いながら登っていたのは何だったんだ・・）

ツアーは料金だけの値打ちはあると思います。レンタカーで行っても頂上まではのぼれないし、いろんな知識を与えてもらえるので、感動のボリウムが違います。英語に自信のない方はぜひ日本語ガイドを、とオススメします。

Since all the Japanese tours were fully booked, I was unsure of what to do, but since it was the purpose of my trip, I thought I would manage even though I didn't understand English, and I decided to participate alone. It's necessary to do some research in advance since you have to take a taxi to the meeting point. When I arrived, there were mostly Western couples of various ages. There were a few Japanese people as well, which made me feel a bit more at ease. We traveled by bus to the summit of Mauna Kea, but it gets quite cold along the way, so it's best to dress warmly. We had lunch at a spot where we set up a tent. After that, we continued on a bumpy road, and I was worried about not being able to see the stars due to the fog, but when we reached the top, it cleared up, and we could see the sunset. It was a sensation unlike anything I had experienced before. The oxygen was thin, so it would have been good to bring some candy. After the sun went down, we went to see the stars. The stars were huge and incredibly beautiful. Since it was an English tour, I couldn't understand the explanations at all, but please enjoy the scenery. It was too cold, so I returned to the bus (laughs). I was happy that the driver, Maka, was very kind and attentive. We returned around 11 PM, and it was helpful that they dropped me off at my hotel. It was a valuable experience, and I really enjoyed it.

日本語ツアーがどれも満員だった為、どうしようと思いましたが、今回の旅の目的だったので英語がわからなったかですが、何とかなるかなと1人でしたが思いきって参加しました。集合場所までタクシーでいかないといけないのであらかじめ下調べは必要です。着いてからは殆ど欧米のカップル（年齢はバラバラ）でした。日本人も何組かいたので少し安心しました。全てバスでマウナケアの山頂までいくのですが、途中かなり寒くなるので防寒対策は上下しっかりしていった方がいいです。途中テントを張ったとこでゴハンを食べます。その後は、ガタガタした道を進んでいくのですが霧で前が見えなく、星が見えるのか心配してましたが、頂上にいくと一気に晴れ夕焼けが見えます。今までに見た事のない感覚でした。酸素も薄くなるので飴など持っていった方がよかったです。日が沈んでから星を見に行きます。星が大きくすごくきれいでした。英語ツアーなので説明は全くわからなかったですが景色を堪能して下さい。寒すぎてバスに戻りましたが（笑）ドライバーのmakaさんがとても優しく気にかけてくれたので嬉しかったです。帰りは23時くらいですがホテルまてま送ってくれたので助かりました。貴重な体験ができすごくよかったです。

I signed up for the 2-hour course. At first, I was worried it might be too long, but thanks to the smart horses and the lovely cowgirls, I had a wonderful experience!! Next time, I want to challenge myself with the half-day course☆

The atmosphere of Jurassic Park was amazing, and I was lucky enough to see the filming of FIVE-0, making it a truly HAPPY day.

2時間コースで申し込みました。
初めは長すぎたかと不安もあったのですが､頭のいいお馬さんと可愛いカウガールの皆さんのおかげで素敵な体験が出来ました!!
次回は半日コースにチャレンジしたいです☆

ジュラシックパークの世界観はもちろんラッキーな事にFIVE-0の撮影も見られて本当にHAPPYな1日でした

My first trip to Hawaii, and skydiving was the main event of my journey with my college-aged son. It was supposed to be scheduled for the day after our arrival, September 11. When we arrived at Honolulu Airport and checked my watch, it automatically adjusted to the local time. Little did I know, this was just the beginning of the mishaps...

The next morning, just before 6 AM, on my way back from getting breakfast, I spotted the skydiving van at the hotel entrance and thought, "Wow, they operate this early! I wonder where they go?" When I returned to the room and looked at the clock next to the bed, it showed 7:15 AM. The pickup was scheduled for 7:05 AM, so I rushed to the front desk and asked, "Is it already past 7? Is there no skydiving pickup?" Unfortunately, they had already left. I quickly called the number listed on the coupon from the front desk and was able to speak in Japanese with the driver who was picking up participants. I was informed that they were already heading to the airport and was advised to contact them to reschedule. I changed the date to the following day.

On September 12, the day of the skydiving, I was nervous but excitement prevailed. The plane climbed rapidly, spiraling at a steep angle, and before I knew it, we reached an altitude of over 4,200 meters. As soon as the engine slowed down, the door opened, and one by one, people jumped out without hesitation. I was the second to last to go. The cameraman clung to the outside of the exit, and as soon as I knelt down, the instructor behind me signaled, and I dove headfirst in a somersault. The only moment I felt scared was during the approximately three seconds it took to complete the flip. Once I spread my arms and legs and entered free fall, the fear disappeared. "What is this feeling? Is it pleasant?" No, it was "Incredibly amazing!" This sensation lasted for over a minute. Once we landed, I could immediately see my photos and video. Initially, I thought I would only buy the photos, but after watching the video, I found myself loosening my wallet.

On the way back to the hotel, the driver turned out to be the president of the diving center. Still buzzing with excitement, I expressed my desire to return and dive again someday by saying, "Thank you. See you next time." The president cheerfully replied, "See you tomorrow!!" He was a nice guy.

The DVD was edited with music, making it feel like a promotional video. I've converted it to MP4 and have watched it multiple times on my iPad and smartphone, dreaming of the next opportunity.

初めてのハワイ、スカイダイビングは大学生の息子との男二人旅のメインイベント。予定は到着の翌日9/11のハズでした。ホノルル空港に着いて腕時計を見ると、地元の電波で自動的に時間を指した。さすがハイテク機器と思ったのがハプニングの始まり・・・

翌朝AM6時前、朝食を買い出しに行った帰り、ホテルの玄関でスカイダイビングのバンを横目で見ながら、「こんな早朝でもあるんだ～。何処だろう？」と感心しながら部屋に戻ってベット脇の時計を見ると、なんとAM7:15を指している。ピックアップの予定はAM7:05、急いでフロントに駆けつけ「今、7時過ぎですか？　スカイダイビングのピックアップは居ませんか？」と聞くが出発した後だった。直ぐにフロントからクーポン券に記載の番号に電話をすると、ピックアップ中の運転手と日本語で話ができた。もう飛行場に向かっているので、参加できる日を連絡するようにと告げられ、翌日に変更をした。

9/12、スカイダイビング当日、緊張はしているが期待が勝っている。飛行機は急角度で螺旋を描きながら、アッと言う間に高度4200m以上に到達する。エンジンがスローになった途端、シャッタを開けて間髪を容れずに次々に飛び出していく。私は最後から二番目。カメラマンが出口の外にしがみつき、私が片膝をついた途端、後ろで繋がったインストラクターの合図で、前転する様に頭からダイブする。「怖い。」と感じたのは、1回転するまでの約3秒間だった。手足を広げて自由落下になると恐怖感が消えた。「何、この感じは？」「気持ち良い？」いや「チョー気持ち良いーーー!」この感覚が約1分以上続いた。地上に降りると直ぐに自分の写真とビデオを見ることができます。ダイビングの前は写真だけと思っていたが、映像を見ると財布の紐が緩んでしまった。

ホテルまでの帰りのドライバーは、なんとダイビングセンターの社長でした。興奮が醒めない私は、またいつか戻ってきてダイブしたいという気持ちを込めて別れ際にThank you. See you next time.　社長の返答は See you tomorrow!!陽気なNice Guyでした。

DVDは音楽付きで編集されていて、まるでプロモーションビデオの様です。MP4に変換してiPadやスマホで何度も見ています。次の機会を夢見て。

I participated in the tour on September 24 (Tuesday). It was a "Happy Vacation!" with just the two of us girls. The stargazing was amazing! The Milky Way, which I saw for the first time, was truly beautiful, and just looking at it made me feel so happy!! After moving to Oahu, I still can't forget Haleakalā. The stargazing in Maui is indeed wonderful!

I really resonated with what Mr. Yamape said: "Since our customers have come all the way here, I want to do everything I can for them." I believe that having a sincere attitude towards customers is truly important in any job.

With the countless sparkling stars we saw in Maui in our hearts, I hope to spend each day feeling happy. Thank you so much!! I will definitely go back to Maui to see the stargazing again☆

We love Hokulea!!

9/24(火)のツアーに参加しました。Happy Vacation!ということで、女子2人での参加です。
天プラ、最高でした！初めて見た天の川が本当にとてもキレイで、見ているだけで幸せな気持ちになれました！！オアフ島に移動してからも、ハレアカラが忘れられません。やはりマウイ島の天プラは素晴らしいですね！
山ピーさんのおっしゃっていた、「お客様がせっかくここまで来てくれたのだから、できる限りのことはしたいと思っている」という言葉と姿勢にとても共感しました。どんな仕事でも、お客様に対して、真摯に接する姿勢は本当に大切だと思っています。
私たちも、マウイ島で見た、無数のきらめく星たちを心に、毎日を幸せな気持ちで過ごしたいなぁと思います。
本当にありがとうございました！！また絶対、マウイ島の天プラ観に行きます☆
We love Hokulea!!

Loved loved loved it. Had a great day and the beach is beautiful there. The sunset was amazing

Love this the most we booked several activities this was a great way to end our trip a wonderful day at north shore YOLO

What an amazing outdoor experience! This hike is a must do if you'd like to get a better understanding of the hidden nature Hawaii has to offer. Our guides, Keola and Marcella, shared a wealth of knowledge and gave us an unforgettable and valuable tour of the forested region of Oahu. Some parts of the trail are strenuous, so be prepared with some good hiking shoes/boots and plenty of water. We also had the opportunity to taste the fruit the trail had to offer, simply delicious. I highly recommend trying this hike if you plan on visiting the North Shore.

We used this service for our honeymoon. I was actually looking for a sunrise at Haleakalā online, but unfortunately, all the dates were fully booked, so I had to change to a sunset. Among various options, this was the only one available, and I was glad to secure a reservation, eagerly looking forward to the day. The guide was fantastic, and I was overwhelmed by the number of stars I had never seen before. I saw the Milky Way, Orihime and Hikoboshi, and a shooting star for the first time in my life. I had never been interested in stars before, but it was truly moving. My husband and I were really satisfied with the sunset! Thank you very much!

新婚旅行で利用させてもらいました。本当はハレアカラのサンライズを見たいとネットで探していました。しかしサンライズは時期的にどの日程もいっぱいで予約がとれず、仕方なくサンセットに変更して探していました。色々探した中で唯一空きがあり、予約がとれて良かったと思い、当日を楽しみに待っていました。ガイドの方もすごく良かったし、今まで見たことのない星の数に圧倒されました。天の川とか織姫彦星、人生で初めて見た流れ星、今まで星なんて全く興味なかったんですが、感動しました。主人とサンセットで良かったね！ってすごく満足しました！
ありがとうございました！

The guide was very kind. It was really cold, and this tour company provides warm clothing for both the upper and lower body, so I think we were able to observe much warmer than those who participated in other tours (only the upper body). However, my toes were quite cold, so I think having thick socks would be good. On the day I participated, the sunset was wonderfully beautiful, but the moon was too bright, and I couldn't see the stars well. That was disappointing, so I give it a ☆-1. Other than that, I was very satisfied!!

ガイドの方はとても親切でした。
本当に寒くて、こちらのツアー会社は防寒着を上下貸してくれるので他社のツアーに参加されていた方々よりは(上着のみ)遥かに温かく観測できたと思います。
ただ、足先もかなり冷えてるので厚手の靴下があるといいと思います。
参加した日は、夕焼けは素晴らしく美しかったけど月が明る過ぎて星はよく見えませんでした。それが残念だったので☆-1で。あとは大満足!!

One of the purposes of my visit to Hawaii was this. My husband and I were supposed to participate together, but unexpectedly, he fell ill the day before, so I considered canceling. However, he encouraged me to go alone, and I did.

My impression? Simply the best!!

The photographer was very good at Japanese and made various efforts to help me relax. The instructor spoke mostly in English, so I think it would be better to have some speaking ability.

I experienced a new world. When I come to Hawaii next time, I would like to participate again with my husband.

今回ハワイ訪問の目的のひとつでした。
夫婦で参加の予定でしたがまさかの夫が前日体調悪くなったためキャンセルを考えましたが夫に勧められひとりで参加しました。

感想は、ひとこと最高！！

カメラマンの方は、日本語が上手でリラックスさせるためいろいろ気を使って頂きました。
インストラクターの方は、英語のことが多いので多少話せた方がいいかと思います。

新しい世界を経験しました。
ハワイに来た際は、今度は夫婦で再度参加したいです。

I enjoyed the ride very much. It is a very beautiful ranch to see. I recommend taking the morning ride (the one we took), since it does get very hot as the day goes on. My horse was a very good follower and listened good. Our guild was fun, information, and funny. If we needed any kind of help he was right there when you asked. He also was a very good photographer for all of us when we stop to take pictures. I would also recommend being in the front so it isn't so dusty. I was in the back and got dusted out a few times so I just kept my distance from the person in front of me and it was fine after that. Did I mention how beautiful the views were? Also, the drive there seems like you've gone too far but you can't miss the gates with the Mendes Ranch name on it. Small parking lot so park by the entrance, for easy exiting. The whole staff was very nice and helpful. I would definitely do this again!

My first time on the Big Island of Hawaii, and I participated alone. At first, I was anxious about being alone, but as I ran through the vast Big Island, surrounded by lava on both sides, all my worries disappeared. To acclimatize to the altitude, I took breaks about three times along the way. I encountered wild goats, donkeys, and turkeys. The lunch at the Onizuka Visitor Center, which included miso soup with green onions, was delicious. Here, I put on warm clothing and aimed for an even higher point. I took breaks a couple of times during this part, so I was fine regarding altitude sickness, which I had worried about. At the summit, a magnificent sunset awaited me above the sea of clouds. Perhaps because I was so captivated by the view, I didn't feel the cold. After that, we enjoyed stargazing. I could see the Milky Way, artificial satellites, the red crater of Halemaʻumaʻu, and the lights of Hilo. The photo taken with the Milky Way and the starry sky is a treasure for life. The guide also explained a lot about the charms of the Big Island, the stars, and constellations. The other participants in the tour were friendly, and I was able to have various conversations, making for a fun time. I was completely enchanted by the allure of the Big Island. Thank you for the wonderful memories!

初めてのハワイ島、一人での参加でした。
一人参加なので、最初は不安でしたが、右も左も溶岩だらけの、広いハワイ島を走っていると、そんな不安も一気に吹き飛びました。
高度に慣らすため、途中で３回程休憩しました。
野生のヤギ、ロバ、七面鳥に会えました。
オニヅカビジターセンターでのお弁当に、ネギのお味噌汁、おいしかったです。
ここで防寒着を着て、更に上を目指します。この途中でも２回程休憩を取ったので、心配していた高山病は大丈夫でした。
山頂では雲海を下に、素晴らしいサンセットが待っていました。その光景に夢中になっていたからか、寒さは感じませんでした。
その後は星空鑑賞。天の川に人工衛星、ハレマウマウの赤い火口、ヒロの街明かりまで見えました。
天の川と満天の星空と一緒に撮っていただいた写真は、一生の宝物です。
ガイドさんもハワイ島や星の魅力、星座をたくさん説明してくれました。
ご一緒したツアーの方も気さくな方で、色々お話ができて、楽しい時間を過ごすことができました。
ハワイ島の魅力に、一気に取り憑かれました。
最高の思い出を、ありがとうございました！

This time, I went to Hawaii for the first time. When you think of Hawaii, you think of Oahu, but my goal was to see the starry sky, so I stayed on the Big Island for five days. I planned my trip over two months in advance, choosing a new moon day, and signed up for the "Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Tour <Reflecting Telescope> by Masashi Nature School."

To prevent participants from getting altitude sickness, we took several breaks while driving up Mauna Kea and enjoyed a lunch box made by an American, complete with miso soup, at the Onizuka Center.

Once we exceeded 3000 meters, we were warned that sleeping was prohibited, and off we went to the summit!

At the summit, we were lent warm clothing, resulting in a strange orange army look. It seems that other tours also offer warm clothing rentals, but this tour is the only one that provides both top and bottom! Fortunately, the day I participated wasn't extremely cold, so I found the temperature quite comfortable, but my wife, who is sensitive to the cold, was fully equipped with Heattech, patches, and disposable hand warmers in front and back. Warm clothing is essential in extreme cold.

At the summit, we watched the sunset above the clouds, and it was incredibly beautiful and moving! However, at over 4000 meters, the air is thin, and I felt dizzy; just moving a little made me out of breath! After that, we did stargazing! The moment we got out of the car, I was amazed by the starry sky. I'm so glad I participated on a new moon!

The constellation lecture by guides Mr. Yamamoto and Mr. Matsuzaki, along with their explanations using a powerful laser pointer, was very interesting, and I was thrilled to take commemorative photos with the constellations in the background!

Additionally, they carefully taught us how to photograph constellations with a DSLR camera, including shutter speed and aperture, allowing us to take many memorable photos of the constellations. Thank you! (A tripod is essential for constellation photography!)

Moreover, those photos can be downloaded from the Nature School's blog, making for great keepsakes.

I would like to recommend this tour to acquaintances who are going to the Big Island.

今回、初めてハワイに行きました。ハワイと言えばオアフ島ですが私の目的は満天の星空を見てみたいでしたのでハワイ島のみ５日間滞在しました。２ヶ月以上前から新月の日を選び旅行計画を立てオプショナルツアーを「マウナケア山頂 サンセット＆星空観測ツアー＜反射望遠鏡＞ by マサシネイチャースクール 」に申し込みました。

参加者が高山病にならないように車でマウナケアに登る途中数度休憩をしてオニズカセンターでアメリカ人の作ったお弁当・みそ汁付をいただきました。

3000mを超したら居眠り禁止ですと注意事項を受けいざ山頂へ！

山頂で防寒着か貸し出して頂き変なオレンジ軍団の出来上がりでした。このツアー以外も防寒具の貸し出しがあるみたいですが、上下を貸し出して頂けるのはこのツアーだけみたい！
偶然参加した日は極寒ではなかったので私はちょうど快適な気温でしたが、寒さに弱い妻は、ヒートテック・パッチ・前後に使い捨てカイロで完全防備でした。
極寒の時は防寒具上下必需品ですね。

山頂でサンセットを雲上から見て、とても綺麗で感動的！
でも、やはり4000m越では空気が薄く頭がクラクラして少し動くだけでゼイゼイしますよ！
その後、天体観測！車降りた瞬間満天の星ビックリしました。新月に参加して良かったな～！
ガイドの山本さんと松崎さんの星座講座、強力レーザーポインターでの星座の説明はとても面白く同時に星座をバックに記念写真まで撮っていただき感激！

合わせて、一眼レフカメラの星座の撮影の仕方およびシャッタースピードや絞りまで丁寧に教えて頂き記念になる星座の写真を何枚も撮影することができました。ありがとうございます。（星座撮影には、三脚は必需品ですよ！）

また、その写真は、ネイチャースクールのブログ内よりダウンロードでき記念写真を何枚のダウンロードでき記念になりますよ。

知り合いがハワイ島に行く時には、このツアーを薦めたいと思います。

I was taken with a group of about 10 people. I thought we would have plenty of time at Dole, but the pineapple train took longer than expected, and we ended up hurriedly eating our soft serve. I think the timing of the train plays a role, but before boarding, the staff takes photos of each group with the train in the background, so we had to wait until everyone was done taking pictures, which took a lot of time before we could depart, especially since it was summer vacation. At the North Shore, we were able to eat garlic shrimp and see sea turtles, which made for a fun experience.

10名ほどのグループで連れて行ってもらいました。
ドールでは時間がたっぷりあると思っていましたが、パイナップル列車に予想以上に時間が掛かり、急いでソフトクリームを食べる感じでした。
列車の来るタイミングもあると思いますが、乗車前にスタッフが1組ずつ列車をバックに写真を撮るため、全員が撮り終わるまで待たなくてはならず、夏休みという事もあって出発するまでにすごく時間が掛かりました。
ノースショアではガーリックシュリンプも食べられたし、ウミガメも見られて楽しく過ごせました。