Space Museum

The Space Museum at Tanegashima Space Center displays rockets, satellites, and equipment from Japan's space exploration program across multiple floors. The exhibits document the country's technological development in space research over several decades.

The museum was established in 1979 as part of the Tanegashima Space Center, which began operations in 1969 under Japan's national space agency. The facility has remained central to the country's development as a spacefaring nation.

The museum reflects Japan's view of itself as a spacefaring nation, with displays showing the pride invested in its space programs. Visitors can see how space exploration fits into the country's broader commitment to innovation and technological advancement.

The museum is easy to reach from Minamitane and requires no admission fee, though visitors should book in advance if interested in guided tours. The best time to visit is outside school holidays when it is less crowded.

On clear days, visitors can watch rocket launches from a designated viewing area when the space center conducts missions. This live experience transforms the visit into something rarely forgotten.

Location: Minamitane

Official opening: August 1979

Operator: JAXA

Part of: Tanegashima Space Center

Website: https://global.jaxa.jp/about/centers/tnsc/#elem_tabs_column-2

GPS coordinates: 30.37493,130.95766

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:24