Is Spaceworld (Japan) Worth Visiting?
Spaceworld, once a beloved theme park in Kitakyushu, Japan, was all about thrilling space-themed rides and attractions. Though it closed its doors in 2017, it remains a significant part of local memory and a unique chapter in Japanese entertainment history. Its popularity stemmed from its innovative approach to combining amusement park fun with educational space exploration themes, making it a memorable destination for many.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit Spaceworld (Japan)
While Spaceworld is no longer operational, understanding its peak seasons can help you plan your visit to other attractions in Kitakyushu. Knowing the best time to see similar spots ensures a more enjoyable experience.
- Opening Hours: Spaceworld is permanently closed.
- Best Time to Visit Kitakyushu: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. These months tend to be less crowded than summer, which is hot and humid.
- Estimated Visit Duration: N/A
Location Details about Spaceworld (Japan)
Even though Spaceworld is closed, knowing where it was located can help you orient yourself in Kitakyushu. Understanding the location provides context for exploring nearby areas.
- Address: 4-1-1 Higashida, Yahatahigashi-ku, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 805-0071, Japan (Former Address)
- Parking Availability: N/A
- Wheelchair Accessibility: N/A
How Much to Enter / Visit Spaceworld (Japan)
Since Spaceworld is no longer open, there are no tickets to purchase. However, many other attractions in Kitakyushu offer various ticket options.
How To Go to Spaceworld (Japan)
Although Spaceworld is closed, knowing the transportation options to the area can help you reach other destinations in Kitakyushu. Understanding how to go to the general area is still useful for planning your trip.
- By Train: The nearest station was Space World Station on the JR Kagoshima Main Line. From Hakata Station in Fukuoka, you could take a rapid train to Space World Station.
- By Bus: Several bus routes served the area around Spaceworld. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
- Ride Hailing: Ride hailing services are available in Kitakyushu, offering a convenient way to reach various locations.
Things To Do in or near the Spaceworld
While Spaceworld is no longer an option, there are still plenty of nearby attractions and activities to enjoy in Kitakyushu. Discover nearby sightseeing places and things to do nearby to make the most of your visit.
- Activities in Kitakyushu:
- Kokura Castle: Explore this beautifully reconstructed castle and its surrounding park.
- Mojiko Retro District: Wander through historic buildings and enjoy the waterfront views.
- Kawachi Wisteria Garden: Visit this stunning garden featuring tunnels of wisteria flowers (seasonal).
- Akiyoshidai Quasi-National Park: Hike through Japan's largest karst plateau.
- Kitakyushu Museum of Natural History & Human History: Discover exhibits on local history and natural science.
- Activities Nearby Kitakyushu:
- Canal City Hakata (Fukuoka): A large shopping and entertainment complex with a canal running through it.
- Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine (Fukuoka): A beautiful shrine dedicated to the god of education.
- Nanzoin Temple (Fukuoka): Famous for its giant reclining Buddha statue.
- Marine World Uminonakamichi (Fukuoka): An aquarium with diverse marine life and shows.
- Yanagawa River Cruise (Fukuoka): Enjoy a relaxing boat tour through the canals of Yanagawa.
Looking for places of interest in Japan? See Traveloka’s best deals on Things to Do in Japan!
Nearby MRT Station & Bus Stops near the Spaceworld Japan
Knowing the nearby transport options is essential for getting around Kitakyushu. Here are the closest MRT nearby and bus stops nearby the former Spaceworld site.
- Space World Station (JR Kagoshima Main Line): This was the closest train station, located right next to the former Spaceworld site.
- Bus Stops: Several local bus routes serve the area around Space World Station. Check local bus schedules for specific routes and stops. You can use a Japan Rail Pass or local IC cards like Sugoca or Hayakaken for easy travel.
Tips To Go to Spaceworld (Japan) and Safety Tips
While Spaceworld is no longer open, these tips are useful for visiting other attractions in Kitakyushu. Consider these tourist safety tips and what to bring for a smooth trip.
- What to Bring:
- Comfortable Shoes: You'll likely be doing a lot of walking.
- Sunscreen and Hat: Protect yourself from the sun, especially during summer.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially in the humid climate.
- Portable Charger: Keep your devices powered up for navigation and photos.
- Pocket Wi-Fi or SIM Card: Stay connected for easy access to maps and information.
- Tourist Safety Tips:
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your belongings and surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: Knowing a few basic phrases can be helpful.
- Carry a Map or Use a Navigation App: Familiarize yourself with the area and plan your routes.
- Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of Japanese customs and etiquette.
- Stay Informed: Check weather forecasts and local news for any potential issues.
Best Hotel Area in Japan
Choosing the right area to stay in Japan can greatly enhance your travel experience. Here are some of the best neighbourhoods and districts to consider.
- Best Area to Stay in Japan:
- Shinjuku, Tokyo: Suitable for first-time visitors, offering excellent transport links, shopping, and dining.
- Ginza, Tokyo: Ideal for luxury travellers, known for its high-end boutiques and fine dining.
- Shibuya, Tokyo: Perfect for young travellers and those interested in trendy fashion and nightlife.
- Kyoto Station Area, Kyoto: Convenient for exploring Kyoto's temples and shrines, with easy access to transportation.
- Namba, Osaka: Great for food lovers and those seeking a vibrant nightlife scene.
Where to Eat Inside or near Spaceworld (Japan)
While Spaceworld itself is closed, there are plenty of options for Japanese food and places to eat in Kitakyushu. Discover where to go for lunch and enjoy the local cuisine.
- Cafes/Restaurants near Kitakyushu:
- Mos Burger: A popular Japanese fast-food chain with a variety of burgers and sides.
- Saizeriya: A family-friendly Italian restaurant chain offering affordable pasta, pizza, and other dishes.
- Starbucks: For your coffee fix, you can find Starbucks locations throughout Kitakyushu.
- Local Street Food in Kitakyushu:
- Yakisoba (stir-fried noodles): A classic Japanese street food dish.
- Takoyaki (octopus balls): Savoury balls filled with octopus, tempura scraps, and pickled ginger.
- Ramen: Fukuoka is famous for its Tonkotsu ramen (pork bone broth ramen).
Shopping Places near Spaceworld (Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka)
Kitakyushu offers a variety of shopping experiences, from modern malls to local markets. Explore these shopping streets and malls in Japan.
- Shopping Places near Kitakyushu:
- Amu Plaza Kokura: A large shopping mall connected to Kokura Station, offering a wide range of fashion, dining, and entertainment options.
- Riverwalk Kitakyushu: A shopping and entertainment complex with a unique architectural design, featuring shops, restaurants, and a cinema.
- Canal City Hakata (Fukuoka): While a bit further away in Fukuoka, this is a major shopping and entertainment destination with a canal running through it.
Best Hotels to Stay near Spaceworld (Japan)
Finding the right accommodation is crucial for a comfortable trip. Here are some of the best places to stay in Kitakyushu.
- Hotels in Kitakyushu:
- RIHGA Royal Hotel Kokura: A well-regarded hotel offering comfortable rooms and convenient access to local attractions.
- JR Kyushu Station Hotel Kokura: Located directly in Kokura Station, this hotel provides easy access to transportation.
- Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kokura Ekimae: A modern hotel with comfortable amenities and a convenient location.
Looking for where to stay in Japan? See Traveloka’s last minute hotel deals on Cheap Hotels in Japan!
Hotels with Swimming Pools near Spaceworld
Enjoy a relaxing swim during your stay in Japan. Here are some hotels with swimming pools in Japan.
- Hotels with Swimming Pools in Japan:
- Hilton Tokyo: Offers both indoor and outdoor pools with stunning city views.
- Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo: Features a rooftop pool for guests to enjoy.
- Hotel New Otani Tokyo: Boasts multiple pools, including a Japanese garden pool.
Hotels with Parking near Spaceworld
If you're driving in Japan, finding a hotel with parking is essential. Here are some hotels with parking in Japan.
- Hotels with Parking in Japan:
- Imperial Hotel, Tokyo: Offers ample parking for guests.
- Park Hyatt Tokyo: Provides convenient parking facilities.
- The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka: Features secure parking for hotel guests.
Searching for a place to stay in Japan? Explore top hotels in popular destinations: Best Hotels in Tokyo | Best Hotels in Osaka | Best Hotels in Kyoto | Best Hotels in Hokkaido
Best Accommodations near Japan Airport
For travellers needing convenient access to airports, these hotels offer excellent proximity and amenities. Here are some of the best hotels close to the airport.
- Hotels near Japan Airport:
- For those flying into Haneda Airport, the Shinagawa Prince Hotel offers easy access to the airport via train and boasts numerous dining and entertainment options.
- Another great option near Haneda is the Hilton Tokyo Odaiba, providing stunning views of Tokyo Bay and convenient transportation links.
- The Hotel MyStays Premier Omori is also a good choice near Haneda, offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to the airport.
- For travellers using Narita Airport, the Narita Tobu Hotel Airport provides a free shuttle service and comfortable rooms for a relaxing stay.
- The Hotel Nikko Narita is another excellent option near Narita Airport, offering convenient amenities and easy access to the terminals.
- Lastly, the Narita Gateaway Hotel provides a comfortable and convenient stay with shuttle services to and from Narita Airport.
Average Room Rate hotels near Spaceworld
Hotel prices in Japan can vary depending on the season and location. Check Traveloka for the latest prices and deals to find the best average room rate. New users can use promo code BOOKTRAVELOKA to get up to 8% OFF.
Looking for more Japan hotel discounts? Check out Traveloka’s Last Minute Hotel Deals and save on your stay!
Conclusion
Planning a trip to Japan can be overwhelming, but Traveloka makes it easy to find cheap hotels nearby and affordable hotels nearby. With a wide selection of accommodations and flights, Traveloka offers a convenient platform to book your entire trip in one place.
Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly hotel or a luxurious resort, Traveloka has options to suit every traveller's needs. Plus, with exclusive deals and promotions, you can save even more on your next trip to Japan.
Start planning your dream vacation today with Traveloka! Book Cheap Hotels in Japan and discover the best Cheap Hotels Nearby. Don't forget to Book Cheap Air Tickets to Japan for a complete travel solution.