Sapporo Astronomical Observatory (札幌市天文台)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A small observatory standing in one corner of Nakajima Park (中島公園), marked by its white dome. Inside there is a telescope, and on some days you can hear staff talk while looking at exhibits about the stars and the universe. It is not large, but that is exactly why children can take their time looking at things at their own eye level. Being indoors, you can avoid the morning sun and save energy before the water play. The Toyohira River Green Space is within walking distance, and the route through the trees of Nakajima Park makes for a pleasant walk in itself.

Tips

Opening days and hours change with the season, so be sure to check in advance. It is a place to look around quietly, so promising not to run is reassuring. Restrooms are in Nakajima Park. On some days there are evening stargazing sessions, so if that interests you, working it into the plan for another day is also recommended.

Best time to visit

About 45 minutes. The quiet time just after opening lets you look around at leisure.

Access & map

1-17 Nakajimakoen, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 064-0931