Fukushima Jōdodaira Astronomical Observatory

Fukushima Jōdodaira Astronomical Observatory sits at roughly 1,600 metres elevation within Bandai-Asahi National Park in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, recognised as the country's highest public astronomical observatory.

About Fukushima Jōdodaira Astronomical Observatory

Operated by Fukushima City, the observatory doubles as a volcano observation post and a public stargazing venue, with an Astronomical Observatory Learning Hall running educational lectures on both topics.

Location & getting there

Perched at about 1,600 metres in Bandai-Asahi National Park, the observatory's high mountain setting gives visitors clearer, darker skies than lower-altitude sites, in Japan's Asia region.

Visiting Fukushima Jōdodaira Astronomical Observatory

The observatory is wheelchair accessible and admission is free. It opens seasonally from May 20, on Wednesdays and Saturdays: 7-9 PM (last entry 8:30 PM) in May, September and October, and 8-10 PM (last entry 9:30 PM) from June to August, weather permitting. It also hosts Star Festival events throughout the season.

See your named star from here

From Japan's highest public observatory, staff experienced in mountain-sky observation can point toward the right ascension and declination of any named star. Name a star or browse the catalogue to find one.