Kwasan Observatory

Kwasan Observatory sits at the summit of Mt. Kwasan in Kyoto's Higashiyama mountains, right behind the famous Kiyomizu Temple, and has belonged to Kyoto University since 1929.

About Kwasan Observatory

Kwasan Observatory is Japan's second oldest university observatory. It was designed by architect Saburo Okura and, in the decades since, has become known within Japan as something of a sacred place for amateur astronomy.

History

The observatory was founded in 1929 at Mount Kwasan (Kazanyama), 221 metres above the surrounding Higashiyama mountains. Issei Yamamoto served as its first director.

Telescopes & research

The Main Building houses a 45cm refractor beneath a 9-metre dome, while the Annex holds an 18cm refractor under a 5-metre dome. A 70cm Coelostat is also on site. Research at Kwasan has focused on solar coronal studies, Martian meteorology, and broader data analysis, alongside an active educational role hosting students from Kyoto University and nearby schools.

Location & getting there

The observatory occupies the summit of Mt. Kwasan in Kyoto's Higashiyama mountains, close to the well-known Kiyomizu Temple, making it possible to combine a visit with exploring one of Kyoto's most famous historic districts.

Visiting Kwasan Observatory

Check the official Kyoto University page for Kwasan Observatory for current public access and event information before planning a visit, since access can depend on the university's teaching and research schedule.

See your named star from here

A working university observatory with a 45cm refractor is a serious place to try to spot a star named through Star Register. Browse the naming packages or check its coordinates in the star catalogue before your trip.