What are the opening hours of the National Museum of Nature and Science?

The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last admission at 4:30 PM. On Fridays and Saturdays, operating hours are extended until 8:00 PM with last entry at 7:30 PM. The museum is closed on Mondays (or the following Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday), during the New Year holiday period from December 28 to January 1, and for occasional maintenance days. It's advisable to check the official website before visiting as special exhibition periods may have different schedules.

Can I take photographs inside the museum?

Photography is generally permitted in most permanent exhibition areas for personal use, but flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are prohibited. Certain special exhibitions and specific displays may have photography restrictions, which are clearly marked. Video recording is not allowed throughout the museum. Visitors should be considerate of other guests when taking photos and follow staff instructions regarding restricted areas.

Are there English language resources available for international visitors?

Yes, the museum provides comprehensive support for English-speaking visitors. English audio guides are available for rent at a nominal fee, and many exhibit descriptions include English translations. The museum also offers English pamphlets and maps at the information desk. Some interactive displays feature multilingual options including English, and staff at the information counter can provide basic assistance in English.

How long should I plan to spend at the museum?

Most visitors spend between 2 to 4 hours exploring the museum's two main galleries. If you plan to visit both the Japan Gallery and Global Gallery thoroughly, view a 360-degree theater presentation, and explore special exhibitions, allocating half a day would be ideal. Those with specific interests in particular scientific fields or who wish to revisit favorite sections may prefer dedicating more time. Families with children often spend longer as the interactive exhibits encourage hands-on engagement.

Is the museum suitable for young children?

The National Museum of Nature and Science is highly family-friendly and offers numerous exhibits designed specifically for children. The Compass area is a dedicated discovery space for children aged 4 to 6 years old where they can interact with natural specimens and scientific concepts through play (advance reservation required). Interactive displays throughout both galleries engage younger visitors, and the life-sized dinosaur skeletons and animal exhibits are particularly popular with children. The museum provides nursing rooms, diaper-changing facilities, and family restrooms. Strollers are permitted throughout the museum, and rental strollers are available at the entrance.

National Museum of Nature and Science, Taito

Floor

Last updated Aug 26, 2026

The National Museum of Nature and Science in Tokyo stands as Japan's premier institution dedicated to natural history and scientific education. Established in 1877 as the Education Museum, it relocated to its current location in Ueno Park in 1931, making it one of the oldest museums in Japan. The museum underwent significant expansion with the opening of the Japan Gallery in 1999 and the Global Gallery in 2004, creating a comprehensive facility that now spans over 14,000 square meters of exhibition space.

The museum serves as a vital center for scientific research and public education, housing over 4.5 million specimens including rare taxidermy collections, botanical samples, and geological artifacts. Its significance extends beyond display purposes, as it functions as an active research institution contributing to various fields including paleontology, anthropology, and biodiversity studies. The museum's collection of Hachiko, the famous loyal dog whose story became a symbol of devotion in Japanese culture, remains one of its most emotionally resonant exhibits.

Visitors can explore two main exhibition buildings offering distinct experiences. The Japan Gallery traces the natural history and scientific development of the Japanese archipelago, featuring dinosaur fossils discovered in Japan, exhibits on the country's unique ecosystems, and displays chronicling Japanese technological achievements. The Global Gallery provides a broader perspective with its diverse collection including full-scale blue whale models, meteorite specimens, and interactive displays explaining evolution and biodiversity. The museum also features a 360-degree theater that projects immersive films about nature and the universe, and a rooftop herb garden offering views of Ueno Park.

The museum is located within Ueno Park in Tokyo's Taito ward, easily accessible via Ueno Station, which is served by multiple train lines including the JR Yamanote Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza and Hibiya Lines, and the Keisei Line. From the station, the museum is approximately a five-minute walk. Admission costs 630 yen for adults, free for high school students and younger, and the museum offers special exhibitions that may require additional fees. English information and audio guides are available to international visitors.