Sapporo Science Center

Sapporo Science Center is a hands-on science museum in Sapporo, on the Japanese island of Hokkaido, built around one of the region's most complete planetarium and observatory experiences. It combines an astronomy programme with wider exhibits on physics, robotics and the natural world.

About Sapporo Science Center

The center houses Hokkaido's largest planetarium, renovated in April 2016 with an optical projection system capable of reproducing around 9,500 celestial bodies across its dome. Alongside the night-sky shows, the museum runs interactive exhibits covering astronomy, robotics and magnetism, and is even credited with the world's first artificial snow-making machine, a nod to Hokkaido's own winter science.

Telescopes & research

Astronomical observation is carried out through the affiliated Sapporo City Astronomical Observatory in nearby Nakajima Park, which uses a 20-centimetre refracting telescope for solar and stellar observation. Together with the planetarium's star projector, this gives visitors both a simulated and a live view of the sky.

Location & getting there

Sapporo Science Center sits within the city of Sapporo, Hokkaido, in northern Japan, making it an easily reachable stop for anyone exploring the region's capital.

Visiting Sapporo Science Center

The museum is open from 9:30am to 4:30pm and is closed on Mondays. As with any attraction, it is worth checking the official website for the latest hours, ticket prices and planetarium show times before you travel.

See your named star from here

Because a star's position is fixed by its coordinates rather than by where you stand, the right ascension and declination on a Star Register certificate can be found from Sapporo just as from anywhere else on Earth. Staff at an observatory like this one, or simply a good pair of binoculars on a clear Hokkaido night, can help you track down the exact patch of sky your named star occupies. Browse our star-naming packages or explore more sky-watching sites in the observatory catalogue.