National Museum of Nature and Science, Tokyo

Name: National Museum of Nature and Science
Address: 7-20 Uenokōen, Taitō-ku, Tokyo, 110-8718, Japan
Telephone: +81 3-5777-8600

#19 among attractions in Tokyo

Museum, Science museum, Top attraction

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National Museum of Nature and Science, Tokyo

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, the National Museum of Nature and Science stands as a bastion of knowledge and a celebration of Earth's history and the wonders of the natural world. This esteemed institution, located in the vibrant Ueno Park, offers a rich tapestry of exhibits that delve into diverse topics, from the evolution of life to the frontiers of technology.

The museum, a beacon for science enthusiasts and curious minds alike, was established in 1877, making it one of Japan's oldest and most important museums. It is divided into two main sections: the Japan Gallery and the Global Gallery. The Japan Gallery takes visitors on a journey through the archipelago's natural environment and the intricate web of life it supports, while the Global Gallery provides a broader perspective on the history of life and scientific advancements.

One of the highlights of the National Museum of Nature and Science is the comprehensive collection of taxidermy specimens, including the iconic Hachikō and the faithful dog Taro and Jiro from the 1958 Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition. The museum also boasts an impressive array of dinosaur skeletons, interactive displays, and a stunning 360-degree theater that immerses visitors in the wonders of the universe.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that cover a wide range of scientific topics and contemporary issues, engaging visitors with the latest research and discoveries.

The National Museum of Nature and Science is not just a treasure trove of information but also a hub for educational outreach, offering workshops, lectures, and programs designed to inspire the next generation of scientists and thinkers.

Local name: 国立科学博物館 Coordinates: 35°42'58"N, 139°46'37"E

Address

7-20 Uenokōen, Taitō-ku台東区 (tai dong qu)Tokyo 110-8718 Japan

Contact

+81 3-5777-8600

Website

Social media

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Tokyo

Day trips

National Museum of Nature and Science – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Tokyo National Museum, National Museum of Western Art, Ueno Park, Kappabashi-dori.

~1130 ftN
Grand site for Japanese art and antiques
Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo
6 min walk • The Tokyo National Museum, standing as a cultural beacon in the vibrant city of Tokyo, Japan, is the country's oldest and largest museum. Established in 1872, this prestigious institution is dedicated to preserving and displaying a comprehensive collection of art...
~370 ftSW
National museum for western art
National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo
2 min walk • The National Museum of Western Art, nestled in the vibrant city of Tokyo, Japan, stands as a cultural beacon for art enthusiasts and historians alike. This museum, designed by the renowned French architect Le Corbusier, is a treasure trove of Western art from the late...
~1620 ftSW
Large park with a zoo, a lake and museums
Ueno Park, Tokyo
8 min walk • Ueno Park, a verdant oasis amidst the urban sprawl of Tokyo, Japan, is a cultural hub that offers a serene escape from the city's frenetic pace. Established in 1873, this park is one of Tokyo's largest and oldest public spaces, sprawling across approximately 133 acres.
0.7 miE
Hub for cookware and restaurant supplies
Kappabashi-dori, Tokyo
18 min walk • Nestled in the bustling heart of Tokyo, Japan, Kappabashi-dori stands as a unique and vibrant shopping district, renowned for its extensive range of kitchenware and restaurant supplies. This street, often referred to as Kitchen Town, stretches approximately 800 meters...
~1790 ftW
Zoo, Park, Outdoor activities
Ueno Zoo, Tokyo
9 min walk • Nestled in the vibrant district of Taito in Tokyo, Ueno Zoo stands as a cherished urban oasis and Japan's oldest zoo, having opened its doors in 1882. Spanning over 35 acres, this verdant enclave offers refuge to over 3,000 animals from around the world, making it a...
0.5 miSW
Cultural museum with replicas and relics
Shitamachi Museum, Tokyo
12 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Tokyo's historic Ueno district, the Shitamachi Museum offers a unique window into the city's past, specifically the Shitamachi area, which was once home to Tokyo's working class. This museum is a treasure trove for those interested in...
0.7 miNW
Museum, Specialty museum
Daimyo Clock Museum, Tokyo
19 min walk • Tucked away in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, the Daimyo Clock Museum offers a unique glimpse into the passage of time through the art of horology. This specialized museum, nestled in the special wards of Tokyo, Japan, is a treasure trove for those fascinated by the...
0.4 miSW
Pond with boat rentals and bird watching
Shinobazu Pond, Tokyo
12 min walk • The Shinobazu Pond is a pond within Ueno Park, and a historically prominent Shitamachi feature often appearing in history and works of art.
~1260 ftW
Museum with classical and contemporary art
Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, Tokyo
7 min walk • The Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum is an art museum in Tokyo, Japan. It is one of Japan's many museums which are supported by a prefectural government. The current structure, designed by Kunio Maekawa, was completed in 1975. The museum is located in Ueno Park.
0.7 miSW
Park, Garden, Historical place
Kyū-Iwasaki-tei Garden, Tokyo
18 min walk • Kyū-Iwasaki-tei Garden is located in Taitō, Tokyo. It is the former estate of the Iwasaki clan who were the founders of Mitsubishi.
~880 ftSW
Music and shows, Nightlife, Music venue
Tokyo Bunka Kaikan, Tokyo
5 min walk • The Tokyo Bunka Kaikan is a Japanese concert hall located in Ueno Park, Taitō, Tokyo. Designed by Japanese architect Kunio Maekawa, it was built in 1961 and renovated in 1998–99. Its larger hall seats 2303 people, and its small hall seats 649. It is operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Foundation for History and Culture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is National Museum of Nature and Science open?

National Museum of Nature and Science is open:

Monday closed
Tuesday 9 am - 5 pm
Wednesday 9 am - 5 pm
Thursday 9 am - 5 pm
Friday 9 am - 5 pm
Saturday 9 am - 5 pm
Sunday 9 am - 5 pm

Which popular attractions are close to National Museum of Nature and Science?

Nearby attractions include National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo (2 min walk), Tokyo Bunka Kaikan, Tokyo (5 min walk), Ueno, Tokyo (5 min walk), Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo (6 min walk).

How to get to National Museum of Nature and Science by public transport?

The nearest stations to National Museum of Nature and Science:

Bus

Jr上野駅公園口 • Lines: 空01(St01), 空02(St02) (3 min walk)
東京国立博物館 • Lines: 東西めぐりん (3 min walk)

Train

Ueno (5 min walk)
Uguisudani (9 min walk)

Metro

Ueno • Lines: G, H, H-Ts, Ts;H (8 min walk)
Inaricho • Lines: G (12 min walk)

Light rail

Nippori • Lines: Nt (25 min walk)

Tram

Minowabashi • Lines: Sa (36 min walk)