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.
