Japan’s industrial development has historically been driven by technological advancements in manufacturing, commerce, transportation, and finance. However, evidence of this history is disappearing due to shifts in social structures, the relocation of production overseas, and the aging of those involved in these industries.

At the Center for the History of Japanese Industrial Technology, we identify and document materials that have borne witness to this history and serve as key records of industrial technology. Through research, surveys, and archival efforts, we work to preserve and utilize these materials, aiming to become a hub of knowledge that contributes to future technological advancements.

Key Activities

• 1. Surveying Industrial Technology Historical Materials
  We collaborate with industrial associations, academic societies, and government agencies to locate and catalog historical materials related to industrial technology. The collected information is made publicly available in a database.
• 2. Research on the Systematization of Technology
  We conduct research on the interrelationships between technological advancements, society, culture, and the economy. Through this process, we organize historical knowledge systematically and assess the value of industrial technology materials. This systematization of technology is carried out by experts in each technological field as well as specialized institutions.
• 3. Selection and Registration of Important Materials
  We identify and register historically significant industrial technology materials to be preserved for future generations. Selected materials are designated as “Essential Historical Materials for Science and Technology” (nicknamed “MIRAI Technology Heritage”) to ensure their long-term preservation and promote public awareness.
• 4. Outreach and Cultural Promotion
  To foster a greater appreciation for industrial technology as cultural heritage, we collaborate with corporate museums and industrial technology museums, organize exhibitions, and host public lectures.

The History of Science and Technology Research Group conducts research on the development of science, technology, and engineering. We oversee collections of historical materials related to these fields and work to research, organize, and permanently preserve them.

The main collections include materials related to aircraft, automobiles, machinery, electricity, computers, architectural models, weights and measures, Japanese railway equipment, records of Western studies, and commemorative materials certified by numerous academic organizations.