Uchinoura Space Center

Established in 1962 under the leadership of Dr. Hideo Itokawa, the JAXA Uchinoura Space Center found its place in history with the launch of the first Japanese satellite in 1970, making Japan the fourth country to put a satellite into orbit. The satellite was named "Ohsumi," after the peninsula, to commemorate the important role local support and cooperation played in the launch's success. Since then, the center has conducted hundreds of launches and extensive research and data collection. Recent notable launches include those of asteroid-explorer Hayabusa and the Epsilon rocket.

For information on future rocket launches and viewing, visit the official launch schedule.

Reference: Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

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Entrance fee: none

Hours: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
*Closed during launches and maintenance periods

*Access to buildings is prohibited