On a Clear Night You Can See Stars in Japan
Jan 29th, 2009 | By Shane Sakata | Category: Museums, Tokyo and Vicinity
If you have the opportunity to head out of the larger cities and into the more rural areas of Japan there is a good chance that you will be able to see the night sky in all of its glory. But if you are in Tokyo, the city lights and the haze that engulfs the city in the hot and humid summer months can make seeing even the brightest star challenging at times.
If seeing the stars from Japan is on your itinerary then you will want to make a stop at The National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno or Tsukuba.
Kid’s will want to make a wish upon a star, and adults will be reminded once again of the vastness of the universe and be humbled by its mystery and simple beauty. Did you know that the Japanese also sing a version of Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star? If you are taking kids with you it’s a great opportunity for both of you to expand your vocabulary – here are the words:
| Japanese Lyrics | Vocabulary |
| Kira-kira hikaru | Kira-kira – shining |
| Yozora-no hoshi-yo | hikaru – shine |
| Mabataki shitewa Minnna-o miteru | yozora – night sky |
| Kira-kira hikaru | hoshi – star |
| Yozorano hoshi-yo | Mabataki – blink |
| Minna-o miteru – stars are watching everybody |
Source: All Experts – Japanese Language
The National Museum of Nature and Science Astronomical Observations
In Ueno, astronomical observations are held on the first and third Fridays of each month. If Tsukuba is closer to you you will want plan to attend on the second or fourth Saturdays of each month. Admission for university students and adults is very reasonable at Y300 for two hours of viewing, while those in high school or younger are admitted free. Viewing starts at 7:30PM from April to August and at 6:30PM from September to March, clear skies and weather permitting.
Image Credit: Flickr, stars #1
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Was working in Tsukuba recently and regret not having the chance to check out the museum and other science attractions there.
I really miss looking at the stars. When I was in Tokyo, I couldn’t see more than a handful on a given night, but Sendai is a lot better especially on the winter nights.