JAXA Tsukuba Space Center

Ibaraki

The JAXA Tsukuba Space Center, opened in 1972, is one of Japan's largest space development facilities. The vast grounds include research and development/testing facilities for artificial satellites and rockets, the operation control room for the International Space Station's "Kibo" Japanese Experiment Module, and astronaut training facilities, all supporting Japan's space development efforts. In the exhibition hall "Space Dome," visitors can view a full-scale model of "Kibo," rocket engines, and satellite models, while outside, a real H-II rocket (for ground testing) measuring about 50 meters in length is on display. Guided tours (reservation required) are also available, making it a popular facility for experiencing space up close.

Basic Information

Spot Name: JAXA Tsukuba Space Center
Location: 〒305-0047 2-1-1 Chigen, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki-ken, Japan
Access: From Tsukuba Station on the Tsukuba Express, take the Kantou Tetsudou bus bound for Arakawaoki Station for 10 minutes, and get off at the National Institute for Materials Science stop. It's just a short walk from there.
Parking: Parking available
Business Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Regular Holiday: Irregular holidays
Fees: Free admission.
Contact Information: Phone Number：029-868-2023
Official Website: https://visit-tsukuba.jaxa.jp/

Map

Detailed Information

The JAXA Tsukuba Space Center, established in 1972, is one of Japan's largest space development facilities, located within the Tsukuba Science City in Tsukuba, Ibaraki Prefecture. Covering approximately 530,000 square meters (equivalent to about 12 Tokyo Domes), the vast site is equipped with research and testing facilities for satellites and rockets, the operation control room for the International Space Station (ISS) Kibo Japanese Experiment Module, and astronaut training facilities. Serving as the hub of Japan's space development, daily activities include the development and operation of satellites, data analysis from observations, research on space transportation systems, and experiment and technology development utilizing the space environment.

In the Kibo operation control room within the center, over 50 staff members, including flight directors, work in three shifts to operate continuously 24/7 throughout the year. The center also manages the selection and basic training of astronauts, as well as their health management, making it a base for Japanese astronauts.

Upon entering through the main gate, visitors are immediately greeted by the H-II rocket on display in "Rocket Square," which measures approximately 50 meters in length and is an actual vehicle used in ground tests. Its impressive appearance is popular for commemorative photographs.

Adjacent to it, the exhibition hall "Space Dome" showcases the history of JAXA's space development and cutting-edge technologies. Exhibits include a 1:1,000,000 scale model of Earth, a life-size model of the Hayabusa2 spacecraft, the Kiku series of satellites, and rocket engines. Notably, the life-size model of the Kibo Japanese Experiment Module is striking, allowing visitors to enter and experience the working environment of astronauts.

The facility also houses the "Planet Cube," an exhibition hall that presents the latest information, along with a museum shop selling space food and JAXA merchandise. Additionally, it is equipped with globally valuable research facilities such as the "13mΦ Space Chamber" and "Large Vibration Test Facility," ensuring the reliability of artificial satellites.

Through a reservation-based "Guided Tour," visitors can explore the operation control room, training facilities, and testing equipment with the guidance of a specialized guide, experiencing the forefront of space development up close. (Please check the official website for the tour's current status.)

The Tsukuba Space Center is the center of Japan’s space development, where cutting-edge science and technology converge with humanity's dreams, making it a popular spot for people of all ages to learn about and experience the wonders of space.