Ishigaki Island Astronomical Observatory (石垣島天文台)

Flow of the course

About this spot

An observatory jointly operated by the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, Ishigaki City, the NPO Yaeyama Hoshi no Kai (八重山星の会), and others. With one of the largest telescopes in Kyushu and Okinawa, visitors can observe everything from planets such as Jupiter to star clusters and nebulae. Stargazing sessions are held only on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, from 20:00 to 20:45 during August to May.

Season & hours

Tips

Reserve in advance by phone at 0980-88-0013 (reception hours 10:00-17:00, open days only). Since walking or cycling to the observatory at night is not possible, please use car access via the second parking lot.

Best time to visit

20:00-20:45 on session days (reservation required)

Access & map

907-0024 Arakawa 1024-1, Ishigaki City, Okinawa Prefecture