See The Universe! The National Astronomical Observatory Of Japan

The National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ), located in Mitaka, Tokyo, is one of the rare research institutes open to the public. In addition to promoting the cooperation among researchers and university students, the NAOJ aims to contribute to the spreading of astronomical knowledge and to encourage everyone's interest in astronomy.

Picture courtesy of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

Established on a vast land surrounded by rich nature, the NAOJ Mitaka Campus is also an attractive destination for you and your family to spend an enjoyable day out while soaking in the infinite mystery of the universe.

The National Astronomical Observatory - Free to Explore

Many facilities are open to the public, requiring no admission fee. You just need to write down your name at the entrance to Observatory and follow the instruction on this map.

Picture courtesy of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

The 20-cm Telescope Dome is one of the highlights among the facilities here. This is the oldest device used for observation at NAOJ Mitaka Campus, and since 1938, it has been used to study the development of sunspots. On weekends, national holidays and school holidays, visitors are welcome inside to take a look at the equipment and learn about solar observation by listening to the explanations given by NAOJ volunteers.

Opposite to the 20-cm Telescope Dome is a two-story building which hosts the Observatory History Museum. Here you will learn about the universe and about the history of astronomical observation in Japan and around the world. On weekends, national holidays and school holidays, the NAOJ volunteers are around so if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask them. They will be more than happy to share their knowledge of the universe.

Picture courtesy of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

On the campus, there are many facilities which are open for the visitors to explore, including a library and the cafeteria. Please check the list of facilities here for more information.

Regular Events at the NAOJ Mitaka Campus

4D2U Dome Theater Showings

The Four-dimensional Digital Universe Project (4D2U Project) is an astronomical data visualizing project developed by NAOJ astronomers to help watchers experience the creation of the universe in the most realistic way. Put on your 3D glasses and get ready for a journey to the stars!

Picture courtesy of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

Four times a month, public showings are held at the 4D2U Dome Theater of the Mitaka Campus. Visitors are required to reserve the seats before coming. Reservations can be made online on the NAOJ 4D2U Dome Theater ‘s website (Japanese only).

Picture courtesy of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

The shows are usually presented in Japanese. However, if you come in a group of 20 people or more, you can contact NAOJ directly and book a show in English. There are 40 seats in the theater and one show will last approximately 40 minutes.

Picture courtesy of the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

Stargazing Parties

The NAOJ Mitaka Campus also hosts stargazing events twice a month. Please check the schedule and book your slots here.

The "Question Corner" at NAOJ

Before going out to observe the stars, visitors will have time to watch documentaries, read books and ask NAOJ staff questions related to astronomy. The quizzes are designed for children and encourage them to learn more about the universe.

Quizzes and poster presentations for children

Moreover, a lecture on the objects to be observed will be held beforehand. The content of the lecture is easy to understand even for children and persons with little astronomical knowledge. These activities provide visitors with the necessary knowledge for the observation, as well as with the chance to discuss with young astronomers about their interest in the universe. Materials in English are available upon request.

Finally, the visitors will be led in smaller groups to the 50-cm Telescope to make the observations they were lectured about. In addition to the 50-cm telescope, smaller telescopes are installed outside to track other celestial bodies such as the Moon, planets, star clusters, and others.

What you can see on the day of your visit depends much on the weather. If you're lucky, you'll enjoy the sight of a clear night sky.

Upcoming Events at the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan

Once a year in October, an event called Mitaka Open House Day is held with many exciting activities for both adults and children. On this day only, visitors will have the opportunity to visit restricted areas that normally are closed to the public. Many exhibitions, lectures, stargazing parties, and other events will be held on the campus.

In 2017, the Open House Day at NAOJ will be held on October 13th (Pre-open Day) and October14th (Open Day). Please check the official web page of the event right here: https://www.nao.ac.jp/en/open-day/2017/ (English).

Don’t forget to keep this day free to come to Mitaka and enjoy the countless exciting events held at the National Observatory!

In Conclusion

The National Astronomical Observatory of Japan creates opportunities for everyone to get to learn more about the infinite universe. Through their diverse activities and exhibitions, a new door to the world of space and time might open for you, changing your viewpoint forever.

If you ever find yourself asking “What is that star called?”, then why not visit the NAOJ in Mitaka to find out?

National Astronomical Observatory

2-21-1, Osawa, Mitaka City, Tokyo 181-8588