Hyogo Kenritsu Nishiharima Observatory

The visit was a phenomenal experience. I went there in September with my japanese friend to visit an old professor of his who works there. Eberybody was very friendly and helpful. They showed us around everywhere. The explanations at the beginning where of course in japanese but because I dont understand any of it, he explained it for me once again in quite fluent english. Same with the astronomical viewings. The event is at 7 pm. It was quite crowded that evening because of a school trip but although we watched the moon, Mars, saturn and the double stars. Plus we had a second, though small telescope outside to shorten the waiting period. The telescope is incredibly big, one of the biggest worldwide as I understood and it is indeed impressive. Once got the right direction, the parc is quite easy to find. I can only recommend. Even for foreigners! Nothing is directly translated in english but you can communicate and I promise you are very welcome. Give it a try!

Stay in a family building, very good facilities, reasonable accommodation rate The reception desk is very kind but inefficient, and it takes a long time, so if you want to participate in the telescope training session, which starts at 4:30 p.m., you have to open the reception desk early at 4:30 p.m., otherwise you won't be able to make it in time. Reservations fill up quickly The view is spectacular To borrow a telescope for free, you must attend an information session. It is best not to bring children to the information session. Unfortunately, it was cloudy during the stargazing event, so I would like to try it again.

I went there during the day, and it was a wonderful place to enjoy and learn even during the day, or rather, it was an observatory. I would definitely like to go again for the occasional nighttime events. The Nayuta telescope was making some kind of eerie sound, but what kind of sound was it? However, it gives a sense of solemnity and romance.

On weekends and holidays, you can participate in daytime star and sun observation sessions using a special large telescope for free. For night observation sessions at the Nayuta Telescope, non-guests must call in advance to make a reservation. The expansive natural scenery overlooking from the top of the mountain is also soothing. The only disappointing thing is that the service at the restaurant is not good. We close quickly before 5pm. There are no other places to eat until you get off the mountain, so we recommend preparing your food in advance.