What are the opening hours of the Tamarokuto Science Center?

The center operates from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM with last admission at 4:00 PM. It closes on Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday) and during the New Year period. Check the official website before visiting as hours may change during school holidays.

Is the Tamarokuto Science Center suitable for young children?

Yes. Many exhibits are designed for hands-on interaction, making them accessible to young children. The facility includes areas with age-appropriate activities. Some planetarium programs may be better suited for older children depending on content and length.

Are the exhibits and planetarium shows conducted in English?

No. Most exhibits and all planetarium shows are in Japanese with limited English signage. Interactive exhibits rely on visual and hands-on elements, making them somewhat accessible despite the language barrier.

Are there dining facilities at the Tamarokuto Science Center?

No restaurant is available on-site. Visitors can use designated rest areas for packed lunches. Vending machines sell drinks and snacks. Restaurants and convenience stores are located near Tanashi Station.

Tokyo

Tamarokuto Science Center

4.2 (2485)Tourist AttractionMuseumPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Mar 10, 2026

The Tamarokuto Science Center, located in Nishitokyo City in the western Tokyo metropolitan area, opened in 1994 as a comprehensive science museum designed to make scientific concepts accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages. The facility was established as part of Tokyo's educational infrastructure to promote science literacy and provide hands-on learning opportunities for the public.

The center serves as an important educational resource in the Tama region, bridging the gap between theoretical science and practical understanding through interactive displays and demonstrations. Its planetarium is particularly significant, featuring one of the largest dome screens in the Tokyo area with a diameter of 27.5 meters, capable of projecting remarkably realistic star fields and astronomical phenomena. The facility focuses on multiple scientific disciplines including astronomy, physics, biology, and environmental science, making it a versatile destination for science education.

Visitors can explore numerous interactive exhibits spread across multiple floors, where they can conduct experiments, observe scientific demonstrations, and engage with displays covering topics from the solar system to electromagnetic phenomena. The planetarium offers regular programs that showcase the night sky, explain celestial mechanics, and present immersive astronomical shows. The center also features a workshop area where visitors can participate in hands-on science activities and educational programs, which vary seasonally. Special exhibitions are periodically held to highlight specific scientific themes or current research topics.

The Tamarokuto Science Center is accessible via the Seibu Shinjuku Line, with the nearest station being Tanashi Station, located approximately 20 minutes walk from the facility. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus from Tanashi Station or Hoya Station on the same line, with the journey taking around 5-10 minutes. General admission to the permanent exhibition areas costs 520 yen for adults, while the planetarium requires an additional fee of 1,040 yen for adults.

Hours

Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Phone

+81 42-469-6100

Website

www.tamarokuto.or.jp

Overview

Address

5-chōme-10-64 Shibakubochō, Nishitokyo, Tokyo 188-0014, Japan

Hours

Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Phone

+81 42-469-6100

Website

www.tamarokuto.or.jp

Traveler reviews

The Tamarokuto Science Center is a wonderful place for anyone who loves science, space, and hands-on learning. The exhibitions are very interactive and designed for all ages — kids, students, and even adults will enjoy exploring the different zones. The planetarium show is especially impressive, with a huge dome screen and clear explanations in both Japanese and English.

Nikhil Sagar

Nov 9, 2025

Amazing Planetarium! Lively and attractive guide guaranteed.

oo-

Feb 15, 2026

It feels like transported in time to when I was a kid and was discovering science by experiencing it, touching it and sharing. 100% recommended for families, science lovers and curious people. It has a fix exposition, planetarium and several extra activities. Will repeat and try some activities next time.

Gabi

Dec 27, 2021

The counter warned us before we purchase the ticket that everything in this place is in Japanese. It is great for kids! Not really big though. There are many science display, moonwalk simulation, a chemistry lab, and a planetarium that you have to pay extra to get in. Be warned: it is a 1.1 km walk between the nearest bus stop and this science center. But the walk of the neighborhood is fabulous!

Herman Ng

Aug 21, 2025

I went here with our schools elementary kids. It was an amazing experience and the staff were very nice and accommodating. Even though I was chaperoning, I too had a lot fo fun with the kids and was really impressed by how much there was to explore. The planetarium was really awesome and they even have the planetarium movie available in English! I would highly recommend for families and schools, it's a great, fun place!