Ginga no Mori Observatory
Discover the Universe Under Japan’s Clearest Winter Skies
Rikubetsu, known as the coldest town in Japan, is also famous for its brilliantly clear, star-filled night skies. As temperatures drop, the air becomes exceptionally clear, allowing the stars to shine with remarkable brightness.
At Ginga no Mori Observatory, visitors can experience one of Japan’s largest telescopes. Inside the massive dome, you can observe distant star clusters, glowing nebulae, and even the spiral arms of the Milky Way with striking clarity.
The observatory is located in an area recognized by Japan’s Ministry of the Environment as one of the “Top 10 Starry Sky Towns,” reflecting its outstanding conditions for astronomical observation.
In rare conditions, visitors may even witness faint auroras, making Rikubetsu one of the most unique stargazing destinations in Japan. Beyond the telescope, the outdoor viewing terrace offers a quiet, open space where the night sky can be enjoyed with the naked eye in complete silence. A visit here is more than stargazing—it is a chance to experience the quiet grandeur of the universe.
- * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
- Nearest airports
General Information
- Postal code
- 〒089-4301
- Address
- 北海道陸別町宇遠別
- Telephone Number
- 0156-27-8100（Rikubetsu Space and Earth Science Museum）
- Open
- 14:00-22:30 (Apr.-Sep.)
13:00-21:30 (Oct.-Mar.) - Closed
- Monday, Tuesday, The New Year's holiday, Temporarily closing
- Car Park
- 100 spaces, free
- Directions
- ●By car: About 50 minutes from Doto Expwy Ashoro IC
●By car: About 70 minutes from Memanbetsu Airport - Website
* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
