Encounter the Highland Stars Through a Large Telescope and Planetarium
About this spot
A public astronomical observatory situated within Kuma Kogen Furusato Travel Village, built beneath the clear sky of a high-elevation location. The dome is equipped with a large 60-centimeter reflector telescope, which under the right conditions can observe bright fixed stars and planets even in daylight—its greatest appeal. The adjacent planetarium allows you to experience the starry skies unique to light-pollution-free Kuma Kogen through beautiful imagery and expert commentary. Kuma Kogen, where the entire town could be called a "Star Town" due to the clarity of its air, is one of Shikoku's premier stargazing locations. By lifting your gaze to the cosmos as the finale to your clear-stream journey, you'll realize that both the gorge water you saw by day and the night sky's stars are part of the same natural narrative.
Tips
Check opening days and planetarium screening times in advance. Daytime star observation is weather-dependent, so clear days are ideal. If you plan to attend evening observation sessions, bring a jacket even in summer, as highland nights are cold. Furusato Travel Village also offers cottages, allowing you to extend your plans to an overnight stargazing adventure.
Best time to visit
Plan for approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Evening is ideal for leisurely enjoying both the planetarium and large telescope, and you can seamlessly continue to the evening observation session.
Access & map
〒791-1212 Ehime Prefecture Kamiukenatagunn Kuma Kogen Town Shimohatanonokawa, Shimohatanonokawa Otu 488
Model course featuring this spot
Kuma Kogen: Omogo Gorge and Astronomical Observatory - A Journey Through Clear Streams and Starlit Skies
Ehime
Explore features & model courses
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