Learn about the aquatic ecosystem of Suwanoike Pond and enjoy stargazing at night

The Unzen Suwanoike Visitor Center invites visitors to learn about local "satochi-satoyama," a community-based forest agricultural system, and astronomy. It is located on the shore of Suwanoike Pond, surrounded by terraced farmland.

The first floor of the building houses dioramas of Suwanoike Pond's aquatic ecosystems and the villages nearby. Plant specimens and taxidermy animals that you can spot around the pond are on display, such as the osprey and the Eurasian coot. The second floor is dedicated to astronomy, with telescopes and helpful charts for spotting constellations that can be easily seen from the pond area. The third floor has a large astronomical telescope used to observe celestial bodies, including Mars, nebulae, and entire star clusters.

The visitor center hosts a variety of events, including birdwatching, nature strolls, sunspot observation and vegetable and indigo dyeing workshops. These programs charge a small fee to cover the cost of materials. Stargazing parties are regularly held on the weekends from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the visitor center.