Experience Remote Work and Relaxation at Star Forest Auto Camp's 'Forest Office' Initiative

Star Forest Auto Camp, located at an altitude of 1,200 meters in the serene landscapes of Nagano Prefecture's Ueki Village, is set to launch an exciting summer initiative titled 'Forest Office' from August 22 to September 30, 2026. This unique project invites not only camping enthusiasts but also those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life for remote work in a refreshing natural setting.

Increased Demand for Cool Getaways

Every summer, the search term '避暑地' (cool retreat) sees a spike in Google queries, especially during July. In fact, searches surged from 49,500 in 2022 to an astonishing 135,000 by 2025. This 2.7-fold increase points to a growing desire among people to escape the sweltering heat of cities where high temperatures often leave them stuck indoors as summer hours waste away.

The rising trend of remote work makes it easier for individuals to choose alternative locations to spend their summer, combining the need for a cool retreat with the flexibility of working from different environments. This convergence of interests may explain the surging online searches.

At Star Forest Auto Camp, you won’t find air conditioning in the cabins. The camp’s elevated setting renders it unnecessary, offering cooler temperatures that even demand a light jacket during mornings and evenings—perfect for a refreshing summer retreat. Located roughly 2 hours and 40 minutes from Nagoya City, visitors often express delight at their first impression of the cool mountain air, exclaiming, “Wow, it’s so cool!”

Welcoming All — Campers and Non-Campers Alike

The 'Forest Office' initiative warmly welcomes visitors who are not specifically there to camp. You are not required to pitch a tent; regardless of outdoor experience or gear, everyone can participate. With cabin accommodations available, along with coin-operated showers and laundry facilities, stays ranging from a few days to longer-term visits are easily facilitated.

Ideal for Varied Audiences

This initiative is great for:

- Those wanting to escape the urban heat for a while.
- Individuals seeking a change of scenery to focus on work or creative projects.
- Teams wanting something more engaging than a conference room for their retreat.
- Anyone curious about spending time in nature, even if they aren't avid campers.
- Students pursuing certifications or those hoping for uninterrupted hours for reading.

During this period, guests can expect suggested activities in a mission format for their stay. Completing these missions comes with special rewards!

Moreover, traditional camping is still an option. Existing reservations for three nights or more also qualify for this initiative.

Select Your Work and Environment

Have you put off essential tasks while caught up in city life? 'Forest Office' is designed for a productive getaway. Whether revising a project plan, structuring documentation, composing lengthy texts, or indulging in reading, this space provides the distraction-free environment necessary for such endeavors.

Guests can choose their workspace according to their needs. For tasks requiring effective communication, the management lodge or a conference room (available from 9 am to 5 pm) are recommended. For personal reflection, note-taking, and reading, options range from cabins to tent sites.

Should you need a break, explore the camp's network of walking paths featuring three distinct trails that meander through lush forests and alongside a gentle stream. Each trail offers scenic routes lasting around 40 to 50 minutes, allowing for over two hours of immersive nature experience with benches and gazebos for rest along the way.

Walks can serve as solitary reflection times or opportunities for collaborative discussions, as side-by-side ambulation promotes easier conversation without the pressure of direct eye contact as in a conventional meeting space.

At night, guests are treated to breathtaking views of the sky at 1,200 meters, where, under ideal conditions, the Milky Way becomes visible. The following morning, reflect on your previous day while walking along dew-kissed paths, observing how time taken isn't rushed when not confined to a single day.

The workspace at 'Forest Office' isn’t limited to indoor settings; planning time spent while walking or pausing under a gazebo counts as part of your work!

Implementation Overview and Participation Rewards

Initiative: Summer Limited Project 'Forest Office'

Timeline:

From August 22 (Saturday) to September 30 (Wednesday), 2026

How to Participate:

Make reservations via our website (https://star.natureservice.jp/reserve/) and include 'Forest Office / Forest Worker Participation' in the remarks section.

Eligibility:

Open to guests staying three nights or longer during the designated period.

Existing Reservations:

Current guests looking to join should contact [email protected].

Missions:

Upon check-in, guests will receive a mission card to complete during their visit and collect stamps.

Participation Rewards:

Completers of the missions will receive locally produced goods (one reward per reservation) dependent on the type of accommodation booked.

Conference Room Rates:

- Morning (9 am to 12 pm) - 500 yen
- Afternoon (1 pm to 5 pm) - 800 yen
- Full Day - 1,300 yen

(Sessions can be chosen while booking. Same-day use is available if the room is open.)

Discounts:

A 10% discount is applicable for consecutive stays. (This cannot be combined with sticker or disability discounts.)

For more details on benefits, missions, FAQs, and site specifics, we invite you to check the project page.

Important Notes:

- Wi-Fi may be limited depending on your accommodation, hence use the management lodge or the fee-based conference rooms for essential connectivity.
- Bed linens are not provided in the cabins; rentals are available through listed providers in the FAQ section.
- Ueki Village is small; it's advisable to plan meals and other supplies in advance.
- Guests are requested to carry their waste back (collection services are available for stays of four nights or longer).
- Ensure you wear comfortable shoes while exploring the walking paths.
- Although it’s summer, evenings can be cool; please bring warm clothing.
- Open flames are prohibited. Fire pits require a fireproof stand for safety.
- Quiet hours begin at 10 PM to maintain a peaceful environment.

Facility Overview

Facility Name: Star Forest Auto Camp
Location: Ueki Village, Shimoina District, Nagano Prefecture 2653-3
Elevation: Approximately 1,200 meters
Access: Around 2 hours and 40 minutes by car from Nagoya City; approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes from Toyota City
Project Details: https://star.natureservice.jp/information/6260/

Incorporation Details

Nature Service, a nonprofit entity, operates with the mission of making access to nature more natural. We aim to facilitate increased opportunities for people to connect with the great outdoors, fostering a more positive outlook on daily life through moments of healing in nature. For more information, visit our official site: https://www.natureservice.jp/