Social design company and community builder USP Japan Co., Ltd. has begun sales for its first exclusive rocket launch tour packages for December 13, 2024.
The three-day package includes a rocket launch viewing, hands-on rocket building, and cultural experiences on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, all alongside luxury accommodation and cuisine. The tours and launches are set to continue into 2025, with plans for over 20 launches per year.
Tour details: https://widgets.bokun.io/online-sales/a59d98fd-5ea5-4a44-8d8a-bc0787a70bb2/experience/928271
Space and Spiritual Exploration Collide
Traverse the boundaries of time in the sacred land of Kumano on a three-day journey connecting earth and space. This exclusive tour package starts on protected ancient grounds and culminates in the spectacular sight of an up-close rocket launch, accompanied by luxury accommodation and cuisine. The unique experience has been created to give guests insight into rocket science and further exploration of the Wakayama region.
Begin with a prayer ceremony for the rocket launch’s success at Fudarakusan-ji Temple, a World Heritage site. See a rare viewing of the temple’s hidden statue of the Eleven-Faced Kannon and take in the positive energy of a Goma fire ceremony, creating a spiritual connection with Kumano’s sacred land and outer space. Return to luxury accommodations to get a peaceful night’s sleep before the launch events to follow.
Experience a Rocket Launch Up-Close
Kushimoto Town was chosen as the launch site after cooperation with the local community due to its remote location, far from land and built-up areas. Spaceport Kii is Japan’s first private rocket launch site, and it provides commercial space services for satellites, sending around 20 satellites into space per year.
With this private spaceport, USP Japan Co., Ltd. can offer the exclusive experience of viewing the launch up close and building and launching your model rocket using the exact mechanisms. Unlike other launch sites, this unique setting also allows visitors to experience a world heritage site, national park and protected Ramsar wetland. Speaking on these unique characteristics, President Kenichi Niitsu mentioned his ambitions for the project: “I hope that Wakayama first-timers will also understand the beauty of the area’s history, nature, and culture through this unique experience that combines modern technology and historic cultural heritage.”
Exclusive Experiences with the Fire, Water, and Onsen Packages
This exclusive launch-viewing experience is available in three packages: Fire, Water, and Onsen. The packages will follow the schedule outlined below.
Day 1
- Meet at Kumano-Shirahama Resort Airport or JR Shirahama Station
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fudarakusan-ji Temple, for a special opening of the temple and prayer ceremony
- Courses split for dinner and a two-night accommodation
- Fire Course: Dinner and lodging at The azure island accommodation Kumano-bettei NAKANOSHIMA
- Water and Onsen Course: Dinner at the Michelin-listed restaurant MINAMO, lodging at NIPPONIA HOTEL KUSHIMOTO KUMANO SEA ROUTE
Day 2
- Witness the Kairos Rocket launch from three unique vantage points:
- Fire Course: Viewing from the Shimizu Pass on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route
- Water Course: Viewing from a private chartered cruise
- Onsen Course: Viewing from a private hot spring bath at KOUBOUYU
- All courses convene
- Exclusive BBQ and launch replay viewing party at the famous Ichimaiiwa, with video projected onto a cliff face
Day 3
- All courses convene
- Hands-on rocket building and launch experience
- Departure from Kumano-Shirahama Resort Airport or JR Shirahama Station
Tour Details
Sales for the rocket launch packages have begun, and applications for the tickets will be available until November 15. The tours are set for December 13-15, 2024. Guests will then be sent a contract and payment information; this tour contract will be completed by November 29.