Tottori Nijisseiki Kenkankan (Nashikko-kan)

Ace Pack Nashikko-kan (officially known as the Tottori Nijisseiki Pear Museum) is located within Kurayoshi Park Square in Kurayoshi, Tottori Prefecture. It is the only museum in Japan dedicated to pears. Opened in 2001, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the history, cultivation techniques, culture, and industry surrounding the Nijisseiki pear, one of Tottori Prefecture’s most famous specialties.

Large-scale cultivation of Nijisseiki pears began in Tottori Prefecture in 1904. Through the efforts of successive generations of growers, who battled diseases and continued improving cultivation techniques, the region developed into one of Japan’s leading pear-producing areas. Nashikko-kan presents this history, along with cultivation methods and the dedication of the people involved in growing pears, in an easy-to-understand way.

In addition to learning about pears, visitors can enjoy a wide range of interactive exhibits that encourage them to see, touch, and taste. The museum is popular with visitors of all ages, from children to adults.

## The 20-Meter-Wide “Giant Nijisseiki Pear Tree”

The museum’s greatest attraction is the “Giant Nijisseiki Pear Tree,” displayed as its central symbol.

This 74-year-old Nijisseiki pear tree once produced approximately 4,000 pears every year at the peak of its productivity. It was donated by Kiyotomi Inamura, a highly respected pear grower. The tree was dug up in 1999 and is now displayed in its original form.

Its branches spread approximately 20 meters across, creating an impressive sight that fills the ceiling. The roots, which once extended approximately 5 meters underground, are also displayed in a glass case, allowing visitors to observe the vitality and growth of a pear tree up close.

## Engaging Exhibits on Pear History and Cultivation

The museum features numerous exhibits that clearly explain the history and industry of pear cultivation in Tottori Prefecture.

At the “Nijisseiki Pear Story Theater,” visitors can explore an exhibit recreating a pear farm from the early Showa period, including the agricultural tools and lifestyle of the time. Through explanations by robots, visitors can learn how Tottori developed into one of Japan’s leading pear-producing regions.

The “Growing Pears” section introduces the yearly cultivation process through videos and dioramas. Visitors can also try a simulated bagging activity.

In addition, the video theater screens films about the origins of pears, their history of being brought to Japan, and the future of pear cultivation.

## A Collection Introducing Pears from Around the World

The museum has an exhibition area featuring a wide variety of pears from around the world. Visitors can learn not only about Japanese pears but also about pears from many other countries.

Approximately 70 types of pear models and related materials are on display. Videos also show pear orchards from different parts of the world, giving visitors a sense of the diversity and global reach of pears.

A collection of pear varieties from around the world is also exhibited, making it possible to enjoy learning about pears throughout the day.

## The Popular Interactive “Mysterious Garden”

Located on the second floor, “Playing with Pears: The Mysterious Garden” is an interactive exhibit designed to make visitors feel as though they have shrunk down and entered a pear orchard.

Surrounded by enormous pears and leaves, visitors can have fun searching for creatures such as cicadas, crows, and rabbits. The exhibit is especially popular with young children.

There is also a “Pear Garden” where pears are actually cultivated. Depending on the season, visitors can participate in hands-on pear-growing events. Around May, activities such as fruit-thinning and bagging are offered, while around September, visitors can take part in a paid pear-picking experience. These activities provide an opportunity to experience pear cultivation up close.

## Pear Tastings Available All Year Round

One of Nashikko-kan’s most popular attractions is the “Pear Kitchen Gallery.”

Visitors can compare and taste three varieties of pears throughout the year. They can experience the differences in sweetness, acidity, and texture among the varieties, making this a favorite among many visitors.

Being able to taste pears after learning about them is one of the unique features of Nashikko-kan, allowing visitors to appreciate their appeal more deeply.

## The Famous Nijisseiki Pear Soft-Serve Ice Cream

The fruit parlor located within the museum offers a variety of sweets made with pears.

The most popular item is the “Nijisseiki Pear Soft-Serve Ice Cream.” Made with Nijisseiki pears, it has a refreshing flavor that combines the light, crisp taste characteristic of pears with the smooth sweetness of vanilla.

The parlor also serves pear juice, mini parfaits, and other treats, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the appeal of pears.

## A Well-Stocked Museum Shop

The museum shop sells pear-based sweets and processed foods, as well as original merchandise.

The selection includes pear jelly, cakes, chocolates, jam, juice, tea, and other products that make excellent souvenirs from Tottori. They are also popular as gifts and keepsakes from a trip.

## Conclusion

As the only museum in Japan dedicated to pears, Ace Pack Nashikko-kan (the Tottori Nijisseiki Pear Museum) showcases the many attractions of the Nijisseiki pear, a specialty of which Tottori Prefecture is proud.

The museum is packed with highlights, including its symbolic 20-meter-wide Nijisseiki pear tree, exhibits on pear history and cultivation techniques, a collection of pears from around the world, the interactive “Mysterious Garden,” and hands-on pear-growing activities.

Visitors can also enjoy year-round tastings of three pear varieties and the famous Nijisseiki pear soft-serve ice cream. Combining education, hands-on experiences, and gourmet treats, the museum is an ideal tourist destination for visitors of all ages, especially families.