Yoichi Space Dome - Hokkaido

Yoichi Space Dome, formally called the Yoichi Space Memorial Hall (余市宇宙記念館), is a science museum that highlights space travel and honors Japan’s first astronaut, Mamoru Mohri. It is located at 6 Chome-4 Kurokawacho in the town of Yoichi, Yoichi District in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Yoichi Space Dome

Yoichi Space Dome Details

Yoichi Space Memorial Hall, popularly known as the Yoichi Space Dome, stands as a tribute to Japan’s pioneering astronaut, Mamoru Mohri. Born right here in Yoichi, Mohri’s extraordinary journey into space is celebrated in this unique, futuristic dome-shaped museum that combines education, entertainment, and inspiration for visitors of all ages.

Yoichi Space Dome - Yoichi town, Hokkaido Prefecture

A Brief History of the Yoichi Space Dome

Originally operated by a third-sector company, the Yoichi Space Memorial Hall temporarily closed in December 2008 due to liquidation. However, thanks to local efforts, it reopened as a town-run facility in April 2010, now operating seasonally to welcome space enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Photos outside Yoichi Space Dome

What to Expect Inside the Yoichi Space Memorial Museum

• Interactive Space Exhibits: Explore the essentials of living in space — clothing, food, and shelter — showcased inside a replica of the "Kibo" space experiment module.
• Hubble Space Telescope Corner: Marvel at a detailed 3/4 scale model of the Hubble Space Telescope, capturing the imagination of astronomy fans.
• JAXA Space Development Display: Discover Japan’s space technology through rare spaceflight artifacts, meticulously crafted rocket models, and engaging multimedia presentations.
• Mori Museum: Get a glimpse into the personal side of space exploration with exhibits featuring the blue suit worn by Honorary Director Mori and nostalgic childhood items.
• Space Shuttle Cockpit Replica: Experience what it feels like to pilot a shuttle with a recreated cockpit where visitors can sit and imagine being an astronaut.
• Planetarium: The small but impressive planetarium projects stunning visuals of the night sky, making it a perfect spot for families and stargazers.
• 3D Theater Experience: Don’t miss the original 3D program, Space Elevator 2041, which takes you on a thrilling journey from Yoichi Bay into space via a futuristic space elevator.
• Museum Shop: Take home unique souvenirs such as popular space food and educational science kits inspired by space and astronomy.

Exhibits Inside Yoichi Space Dome*

* I posted only a handful of photos of the exhibits, and I purposely didn't label them so that you would only get a glimpse of what Yoichi Space Dome has to offer. Please visit it and enjoy it with your own eyes.

Yoichi Space Dome Souvenir Area

Try the space goods and space foods

Illusion room

Bring home one of these cute astronaut plushies

You can also buy Yoichi-made products here

One of the most fun and unique experiences at Yoichi Space Dome is the opportunity to purchase authentic space food in the museum’s souvenir area. Visitors can find a variety of freeze-dried meals and snacks similar to what astronauts eat aboard the International Space Station. It’s not just a quirky souvenir—it’s a chance to get a taste of life in space! Kids, families, and space enthusiasts alike enjoy picking out these novelty items, making it a memorable part of the visit. 

Team Nicerio visits Yoichi Space Dome

My family and I visited the Yoichi Space Dome on October 7, 2023, the first day of our 3-day “Sports Day 2023” road trip. It also happened to be my 705th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. As part of our ongoing adventure to visit all 179 municipalities in Hokkaido, we’ve also made it a mission to stop by every roadside station in the prefecture and collect their unique roadside station stamps.

Right next to the roadside station is the Yoichi Space Dome (Space Memorial Museum), a tribute to Mamoru Mohri, Japan’s first astronaut and a proud native of Yoichi. We decided to explore the museum, and it turned out to be one of the most educational and memorable highlights of our trip.

Inside, we learned about life aboard spacecraft, explored interactive exhibits about space science, and admired the recreated cockpit of a space shuttle. The museum’s detailed displays on Japan’s space program and Mohri’s inspiring journey into space left a lasting impression on all of us—kids and adults alike.

Yoichi Space Dome Admission Fee

Visitors are required to pay an admission fee to enter the Yoichi Space Dome.

Tickets cost 500 yen for adults and 300 yen for students, while toddlers can enter for free.

Yoichi Space Dome Operating Hours

Yoichi Space Dome is open from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM).

Yoichi Space Dome is closed every Monday (or the following day if Monday is a public holiday), temporary closing days.

 

Why Visit Yoichi Space Dome?

The Yoichi Space Memorial Museum offers a well-organized, clean, and welcoming environment, complete with knowledgeable staff ready to enhance your visit. Whether you’re traveling with family, a science enthusiast, or simply curious about Japan’s contributions to space exploration, this museum provides a rare and unforgettable learning experience.

Getting to the Yoichi Space Dome

Yoichi Space Dome is conveniently located just 550 meters from Yoichi Station, making it an easy walk for visitors.

Alternatively, you can take the Chuo Bus Company’s Bus #20 Shakotan Line from the Yoichi Eki-mae bus stop. Get off at the Yoichi Uchu Kinenkan-mae bus stop.

• Travel time: Approximately 4 minutes
• Fare: 240 yen

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