Space LABO: Journey Into the Wonders of Science in the Heart of Kitakyushu

Where Curiosity Becomes Adventure

Located in Kitakyushu City, a city with a rich manufacturing heritage, Space LABO (Kitakyushu City Science Museum) is a hands-on science museum where visitors can discover the wonders of science through interactive experiences.

Opened in April 2022 on the former site of Space World, the museum is located within THE OUTLETS KITAKYUSHU. With exhibits that encourage visitors to see, touch, and experience scientific phenomena for themselves, Space LABO offers a new way to enjoy and discover science.

At the heart of the museum is a simple idea: a sense of wonder and curiosity is the starting point for learning about science.

Interactive Discovery for All Ages

From fascinating scientific phenomena to the vastness of space, Space LABO offers a variety of exhibits designed to spark curiosity and imagination.

• Hands-on science exhibits: Interactive displays allow visitors to experience and observe fascinating scientific phenomena, making complex ideas accessible and fun. One of the highlights is Japan’s largest tornado generator, which creates a giant air vortex right before visitors’ eyes.

• A 30-meter planetarium dome: One of the largest in western Japan, the planetarium combines an optical projector with high-definition digital imagery to create an immersive view of the cosmos.

These experiences encourage visitors to look at familiar phenomena from a different perspective and discover the science behind what they see.

Where Science Meets the City

Space LABO also explores the close connection between science and Kitakyushu.

One of the most notable figures introduced at the museum is Dr. Tetsuya Fujita, a world-renowned meteorologist born in Kitakyushu. Known internationally as “Mr. Tornado,” Dr. Fujita made significant contributions to the study of tornadoes and other atmospheric phenomena.

The connection is particularly fascinating: a scientific phenomenon that visitors can observe at Space LABO leads to the story of a scientist who dedicated his life to understanding it.

Space LABO also introduces the relationship between science, technology, and the development of Kitakyushu, showing how scientific knowledge and innovation have been closely connected to the city and its people.

A Destination for the Inquisitive Mind

Space LABO is not just a place for children. With its interactive exhibits, fascinating scientific phenomena, and impressive planetarium, it offers an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

Whether you are a science enthusiast, an architecture or design lover, or simply a traveler looking for something different from traditional sightseeing, Space LABO offers a chance to see Kitakyushu from a new perspective.

Sometimes, curiosity begins with something very simple: wondering why something happens.

That small sense of wonder can lead to new discoveries, new questions, and a deeper understanding of the world around us.

So, when you visit Kitakyushu, why not follow your curiosity and begin your own journey of discovery at Space LABO?

Space LABO Official website