Light in a desired wavelength band is accurately separated by changing the distance between optical substrates while minimizing deformation thereof. A variable spectroscopic element (1) includes: a plurality of optical substrates (3, 4) opposed to each other with a space therebetween, the optical substrates being provided with coating layers (2a, 2b) on opposed surfaces; actuators (5) arranged circumferentially at intervals around a central axis of the optical substrates (3, 4), the actuators being capable of expansion and contraction in a direction of the gap between the optical substrates (3, 4); and connecting members (10) connecting the actuators (5) and the optical substrates (3, 4) at several locations at intervals in the circumferential direction.