National Museum of Nature and Science

The National Museum of Nature and Science, commonly known as “Kahaku,” was established in 1877 and is one of Japan’s oldest comprehensive science museums. Located in Ueno Onshi Park in Taito Ward, Tokyo, it is Japan’s only national general science museum devoted to both natural history and the history of science and technology, and it operates on the three pillars of research, exhibition, and education.

Museum Structure and Facilities
The National Museum of Nature and Science is mainly composed of two buildings: the Japan Gallery and the Global Gallery.

The Japan Gallery, formerly the Main Building, is a historic structure built in 1931 and designated as an Important Cultural Property. Its exhibitions focus on the characteristics of the natural environment of the Japanese archipelago, the biodiversity fostered there, and the changes in the lives and culture of the Japanese people.

The Global Gallery is a modern exhibition facility that explores topics such as the evolution of life on a global scale, changes in the environment, and the development of science and technology. It features full dinosaur skeletons, minerals, meteorites, human evolution, and exhibits on the history of science and technology, allowing visitors to experience nature and science from a broad perspective.

In addition, the Tsukuba area includes an experimental botanical garden and research and specimen buildings, while the Shirokanedai area in Minato Ward, Tokyo, is home to the Nature Study Park, a nationally designated natural monument.

Main Exhibits and Highlights
Dinosaur skeletons and restoration models of extinct animals are among the most popular exhibits for both children and adults.

A wide variety of specimens are also on display, including Hachiko (the loyal dog Hachiko), the taxidermied form of a giant panda, and a fragment of the Nantan meteorite, which fell in China in the 16th century.

At Theater 360, a 360-degree spherical visual facility, visitors can experience the universe, life, and natural phenomena through powerful immersive imagery.

Interactive corners where visitors can learn the principles of light, sound, electromagnetism, and more through hands-on experiences are also very popular, especially with children.

There is also an exhibition room designed for preschool children and their guardians, making the museum a great destination for families.

Mission and Activities
Under the basic theme of “Toward the coexistence of humankind and nature,” the National Museum of Nature and Science carries out its activities through the following three main programs:

Research and Investigation
It promotes fundamental and applied research on the natural world and science and technology, contributing to humanity’s intellectual exploration.

Collection, Preservation, and Use of Specimens and Materials
It systematically collects specimens and materials related to natural history and the history of science and technology, preserving and passing on its invaluable collection of more than 4.5 million items for future generations.

Exhibitions and Learning Support
Through exhibitions and educational programs based on research findings, it works to spread scientific knowledge and support learning.

It also actively collaborates with universities, research institutions, and companies in Japan and abroad, working to improve scientific literacy and bridge the gap between science and society.

Catchphrase and Symbol Mark
To commemorate its 130th anniversary in 2007, the National Museum of Nature and Science adopted the catchphrase “The Gateway to Imagination” and introduced a new symbol mark.
The symbol mark features a free and multifaceted design reminiscent of a dinosaur tooth, petals, flames, or a gate, symbolizing a place that stimulates people’s curiosity and imagination and serves as a gateway “from inspiration to knowledge.”