©JAXA
Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.
JAXA Uchinoura Space Center
A one-of-a-kind mountaintop rocket launch facility, unmatched anywhere else in the world.
Located in eastern Kagoshima Prefecture on the Osumi Peninsula, JAXA Uchinoura Space Center is a rocket-launch facility operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). Established in 1962 as a property affiliated with the University of Tokyo's Institute of Industrial Science, it has launched over 400 rockets of varying sizes and more than 50 satellites and probes—including Japan’s first satellite, "Ohsumi." The center has significantly contributed to space science research through rocket launches, tracking operations, and data collection.
Uniquely situated atop mountainous terrain, this launch complex has been meticulously developed by carving out plateaus from the mountainside to strategically place essential structures. It stands out as one of the most distinctive rocket-launch sites globally.
The space center offers guided tours for visitors (advance reservation required for groups), featuring facilities such as rocket launch pads and massive parabolic antennas. The on-site Space Science Museum provides exhibits and engaging materials designed to deepen visitors' understanding of space exploration.
Recent successes, including the launch of the asteroid probe "Hayabusa" and the Epsilon rocket, have brought increased attention to the facility. A visit to Uchinoura Space Center is highly recommended when traveling in Kagoshima.
Highlights
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A rocket launch facility operated by JAXA, located on the eastern Osumi Peninsula in southeastern Kagoshima Prefecture.
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Has significantly contributed to space science research since its establishment in 1962.
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A unique, globally unmatched rocket-launch complex built on plateaus carved into mountainous terrain.
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Offers curated tours for visitors.
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An on-site Space Science Museum features exhibits related to space science research.
Photos
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On clear days, you can see Tanegashima Island across the ocean. ©JAXA
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View of the Epsilon rocket maintenance tower on M Plateau from Eiseigaoka Observation Deck. ©JAXA
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Statue of Hideo Itokawa, known as "the father of Japanese space development." ©JAXA
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KS Launch Control Room, where a series of rocket control operations are conducted. ©JAXA
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Space Science Museum located within Uchinoura Space Center. ©JAXA
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Launch site for RAPIS-1/Epsilon Rocket No. 4. ©JAXA
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Are brochures or informational signs available in foreign languages? (If yes, please specify languages.)
Yes, English information is available on explanatory signs and audio guides.
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Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
No free Wi-Fi available.
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Are coin lockers available?
Not available.
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Is a reservation required to visit the facility?
No reservation is required. Please check in at the observatory entrance on the day of your visit.
Reference page: Visitor Guidelines
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How do visitors move around within the facility?
Visitors use their own vehicles to move around inside. Please observe the speed limit of 30 km/h and drive carefully.
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Can visitors enter the buildings?
Visitors can only enter the Space Science Museum; other buildings are off-limits.
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Is photography or video recording allowed?
Photography and video recording are permitted within the designated visitor areas. However, drone use is strictly prohibited.
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Are pets allowed for walks inside the facility?
Pets are not permitted outside vehicles within the facility grounds.
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Is smoking allowed within the facility?
Smoking is strictly prohibited throughout the facility (no open flames permitted).
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Is there any place to eat within the facility?
No eating facilities are available, and eating on-site is prohibited. Please refrain from bringing food into the facility.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- JAXA内之浦宇宙空間観測所
- Postal Code
- 893-1402
- Address
- 1791-13 Minamikata, Kimotsukicho, Kimotsukigun, Kagoshima
- Telephone
- 050-3362-3111
- Closed
- Open year-round in principle. Visitor access may be restricted during rocket launch operations. The Space Science Museum closes periodically for cleaning (once every two months).
- Business Hours
- 8:30am - 4:30pm
- Admission
- Free
- Access
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(1)About 50 minutes by car from JR Shibushi Station.
(2)About 2 hours by car from Kagoshima Airport.
(3)About 2 hours by car from JR Kagoshima Chuo Station. - Credit Cards
- Accepted at some beverage vending machines on-site. Merchandise vending machines at the Space Science Museum accept cash only.
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)