Role of the National Museum of Nature and Science
Who We Are
Established in 1877, the National Museum of Nature and Science (Kahaku) is one of the oldest museums in Japan. It is also the only national museum in the country that offers a comprehensive exhibition of natural history and the history of science and technology.
Kahaku plays a core role among science museums in Japan and in the Asian region. It promotes three fundamental activities; conducting research studies, collecting and preserving specimens, and organizing exhibitions and educational programs. These activities are carried out in three of our institution districts. The first is Ueno district, consisting of Japan Gallery (designated as an important cultural property) and its adjacent building, Global Gallery. The second is Tsukuba district, consisting of Tsukuba Botanical Garden and the Research and Natural History Collection Wings. The third is Shirokanedai district, the site of the Institute for Nature Study (designated as a natural monument and historic site).
Kahaku plays a core role among science museums in Japan and in the Asian region. It promotes three fundamental activities; conducting research studies, collecting and preserving specimens, and organizing exhibitions and educational programs. These activities are carried out in three of our institution districts. The first is Ueno district, consisting of Japan Gallery (designated as an important cultural property) and its adjacent building, Global Gallery. The second is Tsukuba district, consisting of Tsukuba Botanical Garden and the Research and Natural History Collection Wings. The third is Shirokanedai district, the site of the Institute for Nature Study (designated as a natural monument and historic site).
Mission
The National Museum of Nature and Science serves as the core research institute for natural history and the history of science and technology. As the country's leading museum, the Museum conducts investigative work and research activities, collects / preserves / utilizes specimens and materials, as well as offers exhibitions and education activities. These activities contribute to deepen the people's awareness toward earth, life, science, technology, and related global issues, and help them to examine the ideal relationship between the earth and humankind.
Our Three Principal Operations
(1) Research
The Museum conducts surveys and studies about the history and the present state of the Earth and its biosphere, and the history of science and technology.
(2) Collection
The Museum collects specimens and other materials relevant to natural history and the history of science and technology, and preserves them for future generations as a part of humanity's common heritage.
(3) Exhibition and Education
The Museum puts its research results and collections to provide opportunities for people to think about and develop interests in nature, science and technology.
The Museum conducts surveys and studies about the history and the present state of the Earth and its biosphere, and the history of science and technology.
(2) Collection
The Museum collects specimens and other materials relevant to natural history and the history of science and technology, and preserves them for future generations as a part of humanity's common heritage.
(3) Exhibition and Education
The Museum puts its research results and collections to provide opportunities for people to think about and develop interests in nature, science and technology.