Jododaira’s Starry Sky
Jododaira offers ideal conditions for stargazing because the mountains encircling the area block out light from nearby towns and cities. On most clear nights, some 6,000 stars, the moon, the Milky Way, and many planets are visible to the naked eye from this part of Bandai-Asahi National Park.
During the summer months, visitors can see bright stars and constellations, such as Sagittarius, Cassiopeia, Orion, Pisces, and the Summer Triangle (Vega, Deneb, and Altair), which cuts across the Milky Way. Shooting stars are common between July and August, and especially during the peak of the annual Perseids meteor shower from around August 12 to 13.
Jododaira Astronomical Observatory
Astronomy enthusiasts can view the moon, planets, and stars through the Jododaira Astronomical Observatory’s powerful 40-centimeter Cassegrain reflector telescope. Nighttime observation sessions are held free of charge every Wednesday and Saturday from May to October. Special events are occasionally held when astronomical phenomena occur, such as meteor showers and eclipses.
During the day, visitors can deepen their knowledge of astronomy at the observatory’s first-floor exhibition room, which has meteorite exhibits, planetary models, and high-definition photographs taken with the Cassegrain reflector telescope.
The observatory, with its shiny silver dome, is open from early April to mid-November. It is adjacent to the Jododaira Visitor Center. Business hours vary depending on the month, but the observatory is open during the day and in the evening, with a 2–3 hour break in between. Check in advance for exact dates and admission hours.
