The Nagoya City Science Museum is one of Japan’s premier science museums, known for its cutting-edge exhibits, interactive displays, and the world’s largest planetarium dome. Located in the heart of Nagoya, the museum offers a hands-on learning experience across various scientific fields, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages.
A major attraction of the museum is the Brother Earth Planetarium, which features a massive 35-meter dome, officially recognized as the largest in the world. The planetarium offers stunning, high-resolution projections of the night sky, allowing visitors to experience realistic astronomical simulations. Shows are presented in Japanese, but the breathtaking visuals make it a must-see experience for any visitor.
Interactive Science Exhibits
The museum is packed with engaging, hands-on exhibits designed to spark curiosity about science and technology. Some of the most exciting features include:
The Tornado Lab – Experience a 9-meter-high artificial tornado, demonstrating the science behind extreme weather.
The Deep Freezing Lab – Step into a room cooled to -30°C to witness the effects of extreme cold, simulating Arctic conditions.
The Electricity and Magnetism Zone – Experiment with plasma, magnetic fields, and electric currents in an interactive environment.
The Human Body and Life Sciences Section – Explore how the human body functions, including exhibits on DNA and medical technology.
Space and Aviation Exhibits
For those fascinated by space exploration, the museum features displays on astronomy, rockets, and satellites, including a full-scale model of a Japanese spacecraft. Visitors can also learn about Nagoya’s role in the aerospace industry, as the city is home to leading aviation and space technology companies.
Getting to the Nagoya City Science Museum
The museum is located in Shirakawa Park, central Nagoya, making it easily accessible via public transport:
From Nagoya Station: Take the Higashiyama Subway Line to Fushimi Station (2 stops) and walk about 5 minutes.
From Sakae Station: Take the Tsurumai Subway Line to Fushimi Station (1 stop) and walk 5 minutes.
Nearby Attractions:
After visiting the science museum, you can explore Shirakawa Park, home to the Nagoya City Art Museum and a relaxing green space in the city. The Osu Shopping District, a lively area filled with street food, souvenir shops, and historical temples, is also just a short walk away.