The Tokyo Water Science Museum is a hidden gem in Odaiba that offers an interactive and educational experience focused on the importance of water in daily life and Tokyo’s water supply system. Operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Bureau of Waterworks, this free-entry museum is a great stop for families and science enthusiasts.
Exhibits & Attractions
The museum is divided into several themed areas, each offering hands-on activities, simulations, and engaging displays:
- Aqua Forest (1st Floor) – A nature-themed exhibit showcasing the water cycle and how Tokyo’s water originates from the forests of Okutama. Features waterfall simulations and an interactive model of a river ecosystem.
- Aqua Town (2nd Floor) – A simulated city environment where visitors can learn how water travels from reservoirs to Tokyo’s households. Includes a life-size model of underground water pipes and a fun role-playing game where kids can become “water engineers” solving water-related problems.
- Aqua Lab (2nd Floor) – A hands-on science lab where children can perform small water experiments, including creating water vortexes, observing filtration processes, and learning about water pressure.
- Aqua Trip (Basement Floor) – A virtual ride experience that takes visitors underground through Tokyo’s vast water supply tunnels. This ride simulates the journey of water from its natural source to purification and household use.
Water Purification Plant Tour
Visitors can take a guided tour of the Ariake Water Reclamation Center, which is connected to the museum. Here, you can see real-life water treatment in action and learn how Tokyo’s tap water is made clean and safe.
The Tokyo Water Science Museum is a fantastic free attraction that offers an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Perfect for families, it features interactive exhibits that explore the science of water, sustainability, and engineering in a fun and accessible way. Highlights include the Aqua Trip ride, where visitors can follow the journey of water through Tokyo’s supply system, as well as various hands-on experiments that make learning both entertaining and informative.
Just a short walk away, the Tokyo Sewerage Museum Rainbow provides a fascinating look at the other side of Tokyo’s water system—its sewers. This unique museum delves into how the city manages wastewater, featuring life-sized sewer tunnels, high-tech purification processes, and exhibits that highlight Japan’s commitment to hygiene and environmental sustainability. Together, these two museums offer an eye-opening and budget-friendly day out, perfect for those curious about the infrastructure that keeps Tokyo running.
Access
Address: 3-1-8 Ariake, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0063, Japan
Nearest Station: A short walk from Ariake Station (Yurikamome Line) or Kokusai-Tenjijo Station (Rinkai Line).
Official Website:
https://www.mizunokagaku.jp/
