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2025.9.29
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Kamiyama Observatory

[Kamiyama Observatory], where you can see beautiful stars, is located at [Kyoto Sangyo University]! [Guest Article]

One of the charms of the night sky is that the stars look different depending on the season, time of day, and location. While it’s fun just to gaze at them, did you know that there are actually facilities in Kyoto where you can participate in stargazing events and tours for free?
It is the [Kyoto Sangyo University Kamiyama Observatory]. It plays an important role in both research and public education, and visitors can enjoy observing the night sky through telescopes and listening to explanations provided by the staff.
In this post, I’ll be introducing the [Kyoto Sangyo University Kamiyama Observatory].

1. [The Kamiyama Observatory] opened in April 2010!

Kamiyama Observatory

[Kyoto Sangyo University] has placed a strong emphasis on astronomy education and research since its founding, as its founder, Dr. Shunma Araki, was an astronomer and astrophysicist; as a result, it is known nationwide as a “private university where students can study space and astronomy.”
One of the distinctive features of [Kyoto Sangyo University] is that it opened the [Kamiyama Observatory] in April 2010, which is open not only to students but also to the general public.
With a wide array of observation instruments, as well as experimental and development equipment—including the “Araki Telescope,” the largest of its kind among private universities in Japan—the university is making various contributions to the field of astronomy.
In addition, the [Kamiyama Observatory] hosts both permanent and special exhibitions on the first-floor exhibition floor to spark interest in celestial objects among as many people as possible, making it an accessible and welcoming place even for those new to astronomy—which is one of its main attractions!

2. We also hold regular events, such as stargazing sessions!

Kamiyama Observatory

The [Kamiyama Observatory] regularly hosts events such as stargazing sessions, so even first-time stargazers can feel at ease.
What’s more, at the stargazing events, you can observe the celestial bodies visible each season with commentary from staff members, so feel free to ask any questions you may have.
The event dates and times are listed on the official website, and you can make reservations using the reservation form there, so be sure to check it out!
Since this is an event that everyone from children to adults can enjoy, why not stop by and check it out?
Since the stars and planets you can see change depending on the season, visiting during different seasons is another great way to enjoy the experience.
In addition to stargazing events, they also offer astronomy lectures and exhibits, so it’s great that they actively host events throughout the year!

3. summary

Kamiyama Observatory

Photo courtesy of [Kyoto Sangyo University]

[Kyoto Sangyo University's Kamiyama Observatory] is actively planning events, so if you have even the slightest interest in the stars, please stop by.
Also, admission is free on days the museum is open, so if you're ever in the area, be sure to stop by and check out the Araki Telescope. You'll be amazed by its size.
My personal recommendation is to visit on event days, such as stargazing sessions, when you can hear from the staff!

This article was written by [Kugatsu].

  • A freelance writer who spent his student years in Kyoto. I’ll be sharing my experiences of Kyoto’s charm.

Kyoto Sangyo University Kamiyama Observatory

  • Kyoto Sangyo University: The Koyama Issue
  • Kamigamo Motoyama, Kita Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
  • A 12-minute walk from the "Kyoto Sangyo University" bus stop
  • Tel. 075-705-3001
  • Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
    Saturdays from 2:30 p.m. until the end of the stargazing event (Open only on days when the stargazing event is held)
    Closed on Sundays and holidays
  • Free admission
  • https://www.kyoto-su.ac.jp/observatory/
The information is subject to change. Please contact each store or facility directly for the latest information.
All prices include tax.
*If you notice any errors in the content or information about store closures, please let us know at info@leafkyoto.co.jp.
*Since this site uses automatic translation, the translation may differ from the original Japanese content.

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