National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

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National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

Explore the history of astronomy and the universe on a vast campus.

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The National Astronomical Observatory of Japan is a central institution for astronomical research in Japan, focusing on the study of astronomy and the development of astronomical observation equipment. Part of its campus includes public tour routes, and regular events are also held for the general public.

The facility opens parts of its grounds to the public, where visitors can freely explore historic buildings constructed from the Taisho to early Showa periods. On Saturdays and Sundays, the "Sun Observation Event" is held at the 20-cm Telescope Dome, where, weather permitting, visitors can observe sunspots using a 20 cm diameter telescope operated by staff. The schedule for observation sessions can be checked on the official website (no reservation required, free of charge).

Additionally, the 4D2U dome theater hosts regular public screenings three times a month (suitable for elementary school students and older, limited capacity, reservations required). Here, visitors can view three-dimensional simulations created using the "Mitaka" astronomical simulation software developed at the observatory, along with other visuals produced using supercomputers.

The "Regular Observation Meetings" are held twice a month, allowing visitors to observe seasonal celestial bodies through a 50 cm telescope. These sessions provide views of the moon's craters, Jupiter's stripes, Galilean moons, Saturn's rings, and more (limited capacity, reservations required.).

Highlights

  • Parts of the campus are open to the public, offering tours centered around historical observational devices and buildings.
  • Visitors can see the largest refracting telescope in Japan, with a 65 cm diameter.
  • The facility offers guided tours, solar observation events, and regular celestial observation meetings.

Photos

  • "Observatory History Museum" showcasing the history of the National Astronomical Observatory.
©National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

    "Observatory History Museum" showcasing the history of the National Astronomical Observatory. ©National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

  • The "Observatory History Museum" houses the largest refracting telescope in Japan, with a 65 cm diameter.
©National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

    The "Observatory History Museum" houses the largest refracting telescope in Japan, with a 65 cm diameter. ©National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

  • The 20-cm Telescope Dome where the public can participate in solar observation events.
©National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

    The 20-cm Telescope Dome where the public can participate in solar observation events. ©National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have foreign language support? (If it is available, what language is available?)

A

English audio guides and leaflets are available.

(audio guides)https://www.nao.ac.jp/study/mitaka-guide/

Q

Is it possible to re-enter the premises?

A

Yes, it is.

Q

Is free WiFi available in the facility?

A

Yes, but registration is required to use it.

Q

Are coin lockers available?

A

Not available.

Reviews

Details

Name in Japanese
国立天文台
Postal Code
181-8588
Address
2-21-1 Osawa, Mitaka City, Tokyo
Telephone
0422-34-3600(Main number)
Closed
New Year’s holiday period.(December 28 to January 4)
Business Hours
10:00am - 5:00pm(Last reception time 4:30pm)
Admission
Free
Access
Immediately on foot from the "Astronomical Observatory Front" bus stop
Official Website
Official Website (English)