The Museum of Maritime Science in Tokyo is a great option for anyone interested in marine science and the culture of sea and ships.
Located on Odaiba Island in Shinagawa, the museum offers a unique experience that combines education, entertainment, and exploration.
The museum boasts an impressive collection of exhibits that cover a wide range of topics related to marine science, including shipbuilding, navigation, oceanography, marine biology, and more.
You can even explore life-size models of ships, submarines, and other vessels, as well as interactive displays and multimedia presentations that bring the world of marine science to life.
History
The Museum of Maritime Science in Tokyo was established in 1977 by the Japan Marine Science and Technology Center. The center was created by the Japanese government to promote marine science and technology in the country. The museum was created to showcase Japan’s rich maritime history and culture.
The museum’s building, which is shaped like a ship, was designed by the architect Yoshio Taniguchi. It is on Odaiba Island in Tokyo Bay, which was originally a group of six small fort islands built in the 1850s to protect Tokyo from foreign threats.
Exhibits
The museum features exhibits that showcase the country’s maritime culture and technological advancements in the shipping industry.
One of the most popular exhibits is the Antarctic research ship, “Soya,” which was used by Japan’s first Antarctic expedition in 1956. You can explore the ship and learn about the challenges faced by the crew during their voyage.
The museum also features exhibits on Japanese boats, items related to the navy, fishing, sailing, and the environment of the seas and oceans around Japan.
Another highlight of the museum is the passenger boat freighters exhibit, which showcases the evolution of passenger ships in Japan. The exhibit features models of different types of ships, including luxury liners and ferries, and you can learn about the history of passenger transportation in Japan.
For those interested in the military history of Japan’s navy, the museum features exhibits on ship design and building, as well as the Maritime Self-Defense Forces Aegis-class cruiser and submarine topography of Japan’s sea.
The exhibits provide an in-depth look at the technological advancements in the Japanese navy over the years.
Special Exhibitions
The Museum also regularly features special exhibitions that showcase different aspects of maritime history and technology. These exhibitions are typically temporary, so check the museum’s website or inquire at the ticket counter for current offerings.
Recent special exhibitions have included:
- The History of Japanese Shipbuilding: This exhibition explored the evolution of shipbuilding techniques in Japan, from ancient times to the present day. Visitors could see scale models of historic ships, as well as examples of traditional shipbuilding tools and materials.
- Maritime Artifacts from Around the World: This exhibition featured a collection of maritime artifacts from cultures and time periods. Visitors could see everything from ancient navigational instruments to contemporary artwork inspired by the sea.
- The Science of Oceanography: This exhibition delved into the study of the ocean and its ecosystems. Visitors could learn about the tools and techniques used by oceanographers to explore the depths, as well as the latest research on topics like climate change and marine biodiversity.
Facilities
It is a large museum with many facilities for visitors to explore, including:
- The Main Building: This building houses the permanent exhibition, which showcases the history of Japanese maritime technology and the culture of the sea. You can see models of ships, navigational instruments, and other artifacts related to maritime science.
- The Annex Exhibition Hall: This hall features special exhibitions that change periodically. Past exhibitions have included displays on the Titanic and the history of shipbuilding in Japan.
- The Outdoor Exhibition Area: This area features full-size ships and other vessels, including a submarine and a research vessel. You can explore the ships and learn about their history and use.
- The Library: The museum has a library with a collection of books and other materials related to maritime science and history. The library is open to the public, but check the hours of operation before visiting.
- The Museum Shop: The shop sells maritime-themed souvenirs and gifts, including books, models, and clothing.
Visitors to the Museum of Maritime Science can also participate in activities, such as guided tours, workshops, and lectures. The museum offers programs for people of all ages and backgrounds, from school groups to seniors.
Access and Admission
Despite being technically in Shinagawa, The Museum of Maritime Science is on Odaiba island in Tokyo. You can take the Yurikamome Line to the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station. The museum is a 5-minute walk from the station.
Alternatively, you can take the JR Yamanote Line to Shinagawa Station and transfer to the Rinkai Line. From there, take the train to Tokyo Teleport Station and follow the same directions as above.
Admission to the museum is free. However, some exhibits may require additional fees. Visitors are advised to check the museum’s website for details on current exhibits and admission fees.
The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last admission at 4:30 PM. It is closed on Mondays, except for national holidays falling on a Monday, in which case it is closed the following day. The museum is also closed from December 28 to January 1.
The Sum Up
If you’re heading to Tokyo and are interested in maritime history, the Museum of Maritime Science is a great destination to consider. Located on the man-made island of Odaiba, the museum is easily accessible by train and offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages.
check the museum’s website for information about special exhibits or events that are happening during your visit.
