The National Museum of Nature and Science is Japan’s national science museum, founded in 1877 and carrying Important Cultural Property status. Visiting it means moving vertically rather than along a single route: the Japan Gallery and the Global Gallery each run over several levels, connected by lifts and escalators, and the family facilities — nursing rooms, nappy-changing points, the lounge where eating is allowed — sit on named floors rather than clustered by the entrance, so it pays to note where they are before you start climbing. On the Global Gallery roof a wooden sky deck and a herb garden are set aside for resting, both closed when the weather is bad. The one thing to get right before you arrive is the ticket. Entry to the permanent exhibitions is sold as an e-ticket that cannot be cancelled, changed or refunded once you have bought it; if you simply do not turn up, the ticket is not lost and can be used on a later visit while it is still valid. Special exhibitions are a separate purchase, and a special exhibition ticket also lets you into the permanent galleries on the same day.
Family FAQ
How much does National Museum of Nature and Science cost?
The permanent exhibitions cost 630 yen for adults, including university students; a special exhibition ticket also covers the permanent exhibitions on the same day.
Can you bring a stroller to National Museum of Nature and Science?
Two strollers are available to borrow; ask at the general information desk by the entrance.
Is there baby changing at National Museum of Nature and Science?
Changing tables are in the multipurpose toilets on every floor of the Global Gallery except B1, on Japan Gallery B1, 1F and 2F, and in the nursing room in the Japan Gallery basement lounge.
