The National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ) has a large collection of rare books on astronomy, mainly Japanese and Chinese books that were owned by the Edo shogunate's astronomical office. Of these materials, those on microfilm may be copied and viewed for research purposes only with prior application. In addition, the museum regularly holds public exhibitions on selected themes.
The collections held at the NAOJ Library. Cross-search is available.
If you wish to view, copy, or post microfilms of rare materials, or if you wish to use digital images of rare materials on the Library's website or images of rare materials used in the Rare Materials Exhibition, etc. in publications, you must obtain prior permission from the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan.
If you wish to apply, please download the application form below and send it to the library by e-mail first. We will contact you shortly.
Request to browse rare materials [Word version]
Please attach a document (such as a proposal) that gives an outline of the publication, etc. in question.
Request for Permission to Photograph and Publish [Word version]
The catalog of the exhibition of valuable materials is distributed free of charge for use in surveys, research, or educational activities. If you wish to receive a copy, please contact us.