2026 Iide Observatory Stargazing: A Full-Day Course

Iide Observatory, at 2888 Tsubaki, Iide Town, Nishiokitama District, Yamagata Prefecture, is a public observatory (nicknamed 'Kirakira Dome') established by Iide Town. It is equipped with a 40cm-aperture Cassegrain reflecting telescope and a system that can automatically point to the star you want to see. It is open from April to November (closed in winter, December to March), closed on Sundays, Mondays, and public holidays, and open only Tuesday through Saturday. Reservations must be made by phone (0238-87-1758) at least 8 days before your desired visit date; same-day reservations are not accepted. Nighttime use is possible but depends on the availability of volunteer staff. Admission is 200 yen for adults, university students, and high school students (150 yen for groups), 150 yen for junior high and elementary school students (100 yen for groups of 10 or more), and free for preschool children.