Popular Local Tourist Spot! Exploring the Charm of Saga Prefectural Space and Science Museum ‘Yumeginga

Located about 10 minutes by car from Takeo Kitagata I.C. in Saga Prefecture, the Saga Prefectural Space and Science Museum "Yumeginga" sits in a corner of Takeo Town, an area rich in nature and hot springs. Yumeginga is a famous spot in Saga Prefecture where you can have fun learning about the wonders of space and science. The silver building, shaped like a space station, excites visitors as if an adventure into space is about to begin. Inside the facility, there are three permanent exhibition zones: the Saga Discovery Zone, the Earth Discovery Zone, and the Space Discovery Zone. There is also a planetarium and an observatory. With popular science workshops available, it’s a place where both adults and children can enjoy an entire day of fun.

Saga Discovery Zone

In the Saga Discovery Zone, you can explore the natural wonders of Saga. After passing through an underground tunnel that leads to the ancient Earth, you’ll find yourself in a dimly lit subterranean world. There are exhibits of fossils and minerals excavated within Saga Prefecture. The fossil of the “Diabloceratops,” known as the "face with devil horns," is especially impressive. There’s also an earthquake simulator where you can experience tremors up to a seismic intensity of level 6.

Another popular attraction is the aquarium showcasing aquatic creatures native to Saga. You can observe rare species such as mudskippers and warasubo (a bizarre-looking fish), and even touch creatures like hermit crabs and starfish. There are also diorama displays recreating Saga’s traditional satoyama (countryside landscapes), offering visitors an immersive experience of Saga’s rich natural beauty.

Earth Discovery Zone

In the Earth Discovery Zone, you can have fun while learning about space, the Earth, and life itself.

One highlight is "Space Cycling," where you pedal a bicycle along a rope, giving you the sensation of cycling through space. There’s a 150 kg weight attached beneath the bike, so it won’t sway, demonstrating the power of gravity. The "Earth Theater," which incorporates digital technology, senses your movements and progresses through an interactive story about the birth of Earth. You can learn about the origins of the planet in a game-like experience as you overcome various challenges.

Other attractions include the "Wind Table," where you can experience the power of wind, and a station where you can step inside a giant bubble—offering plenty of exhibits that let you feel the forces of Earth firsthand.

Space Discovery Zone

The Space Discovery Zone makes you feel as if you’ve stepped into a science fiction world. Inside the spaceship-like space, you’ll find exhibits about astronomy, the solar system, the galaxy, and more.
In the "Space Gym" area, you can try the "Space Trainer," which simulates astronaut training, and the "Moon Walk" experience, where you can feel what it’s like to walk on the moon (available for those taller than 130 cm and weighing under 80 kg). These attractions provide realistic simulations of outer space that even adults will find captivating.

With both exhibits and interactive experiences, the Space Discovery Zone fully conveys the wonders of space. As you learn about distant stars, planets, and the history of the universe, your romantic dreams of exploring space will only grow bigger.

The Popular "Science Classroom"

The highly popular "Yumeginga Science Classroom" is a science workshop where parents and children (elementary school age and up) can participate together. Different themed classes are held every month, so if you’re interested, check the latest information on their website. You can also apply directly through the website.

Exciting programs include workshops where you can polish your own lenses and make a 6.2x Galileo-style telescope, or build robots that move in different ways using sound sensors. There are also free daily events such as workshops, animal feeding experiences, and behind-the-scenes tours that are worth checking out.

Planetarium and Observatory

The planetarium, which both children and adults can enjoy, offers programs tailored for preschoolers, families, and general audiences. Featuring the latest projection system, the planetarium provides an impressive experience, beautifully recreating the starry sky. Since the content changes regularly, make sure to check the schedule on their website. There are also programs with live explanations from staff about the constellations.

On clear days, the observatory is highly recommended for stargazing. You can observe stars shining in the daytime sky or view the sun. There’s even a stamp rally that allows you to enjoy observing various celestial bodies throughout the year. Every Saturday night, there’s also a stargazing event at the observatory.

◎Summary

The Saga Prefectural Space and Science Museum "Yumeginga" offers a wide variety of exhibits that visitors of all ages can enjoy. It's a place you can visit again and again, always finding something new to experience. From interactive exhibits to the planetarium and stargazing at the observatory, a range of exciting activities awaits. Why not visit and let your imagination wander into the mysteries of space?
At the on-site restaurant, you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine while gazing out at Lake Ikenouchi. The nearby Takeo Recreational Village also features accommodations with hot springs and a spacious lawn park, making it an ideal spot for a refreshing trip.

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Popular Local Tourist Spot! Exploring the Charm of Saga Prefectural Space and Science Museum ‘Yumeginga