Asahikawa Science Center
Engaging science center with hands-on exhibits, a unique -40 degree room, and an observatory offering city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Asahikawa Science Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Engaging science center with hands-on exhibits, a unique -40 degree room, and an observatory offering city views.
"Excellent science museum, loved all parts of it! One of the best in the country. "
Allocate Ample Time ⏳
Plan for 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits and demonstrations.
English Translations Available ✅
Most exhibits have English info, making it accessible for international visitors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hands-On Science Exhibits
Engage with interactive displays covering physics, space, and more. Fun for all ages with many having English translations.
Zero Gravity Experience
Simulate astronaut training with this unique low-gravity jumping station. A thrilling and memorable activity.
Observatory Views
Ascend to the rooftop observatory for panoramic city views, even if the telescope is clouded out.
The -40 Degree Room
Experience extreme cold in this unique exhibit, offering a stark contrast to Hokkaido's usual winter chill.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Exhibits
Planetarium Show Savvy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate Ample Time ⏳
Plan for 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits and demonstrations.
English Translations Available ✅
Most exhibits have English info, making it accessible for international visitors.
Friendly Staff Assistance 🤗
Staff are helpful and will try to explain concepts even with limited English.
Check Planetarium Schedule 🌟
Shows change monthly; verify content if astrophysics is your main interest.
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Ample Time ⏳
Plan for 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the exhibits and demonstrations.
English Translations Available ✅
Most exhibits have English info, making it accessible for international visitors.
Friendly Staff Assistance 🤗
Staff are helpful and will try to explain concepts even with limited English.
Check Planetarium Schedule 🌟
Shows change monthly; verify content if astrophysics is your main interest.
Free for Young Kids 🧒
Children 7 and under often get free admission, making it a great family option.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Asahikawa Science Center for its engaging, hands-on exhibits and friendly staff, making it a fun and educational experience for families. While the planetarium shows may be more general, the interactive displays and unique rooms like the -40 degree chamber are highly recommended. The observatory offers pleasant city views.
"A new experience! This was my first time going to Planetarium. The best to go when you well rested, so don't fall asleep under the stars. My friend said they change the movie every month. The staff is friendly too."
Tabita Elsha
"Free entry for Young kids (7 y.o.). Excellent science museum. Loved all parts of it. Small museum but I think it’s One of the best in the country. Loved science show and -40 degree room."
Nong Vin
"Visited on 1st November 2024.
It’s a fun place to learn about science. It would take at least 2-3 hours to truly appreciate the exhibitions.
Most of the exhibits have English translation and the exhibition staff were friendly and approachable too.
There is an observatory on the rooftop. Unfortunately, it was cloudy that day and we were unable to use the telescope. The view of the city from up there was great though.
The only downside was the show in the planetarium, it was passable and had little to do with astrophysics. Regret being stuck in there for 40 minutes.
Other than that the museum itself is a good place to visit."
Khal Esham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Asahikawa Science Center is accessible by public transport within the city. Local buses are a convenient option. If driving, check for available parking facilities.
The Science Center is located in the city of Asahikawa, not directly at the airport. You'll need to take a bus or taxi from Asahikawa Airport to reach the city center and then proceed to the center.
The closest major train station is Asahikawa Station. From there, you can take a local bus or a taxi to reach the Science Center.
While it's possible to walk, it might be a considerable distance depending on your pace and the weather. Taking a local bus is generally recommended for convenience.
Check with local Asahikawa transport authorities for any day passes or tourist passes that might include bus routes serving the Science Center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary, but there's often free entry for young children (around 7 years old and under). Check the official website for current pricing and any special offers.
For general admission, advance booking is usually not required. However, for special events or planetarium shows, it's advisable to check if reservations are recommended or mandatory.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to consult the official Asahikawa Science Center website for the most up-to-date information on daily operating times.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Keep an eye out for any special promotions or family packages.
Typically, planetarium shows may have a separate fee or be included in a combined ticket. Confirm this when purchasing your admission.
🎫 🔬 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the hands-on interactive exhibits, the zero gravity experience, the -40 degree room, and the rooftop observatory.
Yes, the Science Center is very family-friendly with many exhibits designed to be engaging and educational for children.
Yes, there is an observatory on the rooftop offering city views.
Yes, the center features a small earthquake simulator for visitors to experience seismic activity.
Most visitors find that 2-3 hours are sufficient to explore the exhibits thoroughly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Information on on-site dining options is limited. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire upon arrival. You may need to dine outside the center.
Policies on outside food and drinks can vary. It's best to confirm with the Science Center staff or check their guidelines before your visit.
Asahikawa city offers a variety of restaurants and cafes. You can find local eateries and international cuisine options within a short distance from the center.
While there is a gift shop, it's typically focused on souvenirs rather than a wide selection of snacks.
Asahikawa has a growing food scene, and you can likely find vegetarian and vegan options in restaurants around the city center.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially in the planetarium or during demonstrations.
The interactive exhibits, the zero gravity station, and the city views from the observatory are great spots for photos. The 'taking photos of your shadows' exhibit is also fun.
Flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing other visitors or interfering with exhibits. Look for signage or ask staff.
Daytime visits will offer natural light for most exhibits. The observatory views are best during daylight hours.
The futuristic design of some exhibits and the planetarium dome can offer unique backdrops for your photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many exhibits have English translations, and the friendly staff are adept at engaging children, even with limited English. The center is compact enough to navigate easily with little ones, and the demonstrations offer a fun, educational break. It’s a great way to spark curiosity and make science exciting for the whole family.
🤓 Science Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the -40 degree room and the zero gravity simulator for unique scientific experiences. The staff's willingness to explain concepts, even with language differences, is a significant plus for enthusiasts looking to engage with the material.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Time-Crunched Visitors
Focus on the most popular interactive exhibits and perhaps a quick visit to the observatory for city views. The center's manageable size means you can get a good feel for it without committing an entire day. The friendly staff can help you prioritize if you're short on time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Interactive Exhibits
One of the standout attractions is the zero gravity experience station, where you can try out low-gravity jumping. Another unique feature is the -40 degree room, offering a chance to feel extreme cold. The center also includes an earthquake simulator for a visceral understanding of seismic events. These interactive elements are a hit with both children and adults, providing hours of engaging exploration.
Beyond the physical exhibits, the Science Center often hosts science demonstrations. While these are primarily in Japanese, the staff are known for their friendly demeanor and willingness to explain concepts using gestures and simple English when needed. This commitment to visitor engagement ensures a positive experience even with language differences.
The Planetarium and Observatory
Complementing the indoor attractions is the rooftop observatory. Even on cloudy days, the observatory provides a fantastic vantage point for panoramic views of Asahikawa city. If the weather permits, you might have the opportunity to use the telescope for stargazing, adding another dimension to your visit.
While the planetarium shows might not satisfy hardcore astronomy enthusiasts, the overall experience at the Science Center, including the observatory's city views, contributes to a well-rounded visit. The combination of interactive exhibits and the observatory makes it a worthwhile stop.
Visitor Experience and Staff
Reviewers often highlight how the staff actively engage with visitors, particularly children, guiding them through exhibits like the 'low-gravity jumping' and 'free-rotation seat.' This personal touch significantly enhances the overall experience, making the museum feel more approachable and less intimidating.
This positive interaction with the staff contributes to the center being considered one of the best in the country, despite its relatively small size. Their dedication to making science accessible and enjoyable is a key factor in the center's success.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit