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The National Institute of Polar Research Antarctic and Arctic Science Museum
The stirring intrigue of the Artic and Antarctica await at this fun, free admission science museum.
Dive into an all new way to learn and interact with exhibits that showcase research findings from the Antarctic and Arctic regions. Step inside for heaps of fun, with fascinating displays like the snow vehicle used in Antarctica, cold-weather gear from the first Antarctic expedition, dog sleds, and rocks collected from Antarctica.
Visitors can examine real rocks and meteorites under a microscope and even touch ice from Antarctica.
The "TACHIHI Aurora Theater" features a 4-meter diameter dome screen showing aurora footage captured by researchers, making it an enjoyable experience for both adults and children alike.
The museum also has exhibits addressing environmental changes due to global warming and shifts in oceanic conditions, encouraging visitors to reflect on the future of Earth and consider their impact on the environment.
Highlights
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Learn about the observation and research activities in the Antarctic and Arctic.
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Fun interactive and educational exhibits to explore.
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Intriguing taxidermy displays of animals like polar bears.
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Reflect on global environmental issues.
Photos
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![A number of enthralling exhibits related to the Antarctic and Arctic regions.]()
A number of enthralling exhibits related to the Antarctic and Arctic regions.
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![The snow vehicle that traveled round-trip from Showa Station to the South Pole in 1968-1969]()
The snow vehicle that traveled round-trip from Showa Station to the South Pole in 1968-1969
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![The interior of the snow vehicle is also on display (no entry allowed).]()
The interior of the snow vehicle is also on display (no entry allowed).
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![Observe rocks collected from Antarctica under a microscope.]()
Observe rocks collected from Antarctica under a microscope.
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![Antarctic ice you can touch with your hands!]()
Antarctic ice you can touch with your hands!
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![The polar bear taxidermy display is incredibly impressive.]()
The polar bear taxidermy display is incredibly impressive.
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![A facility where you can learn about the Antarctic and Arctic for free.]()
A facility where you can learn about the Antarctic and Arctic for free.
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Is parking available?
There is no dedicated parking for the museum. Visitors can use the free parking at the research institute, but spaces are limited. Public transportation is recommended.
Q
Is there a restaurant?
No.
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Is there a museum shop?
Yes, the museum shop is operated by the Japan Polar Research Association. Some items are also available through their online shop.
Q
Can I take photos inside the museum?
Photography is allowed throughout the museum except inside the Aurora Theater.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 国立極地研究所 南極・北極科学館
- Postal Code
- 190-8518
- Address
- 10-3 Midori-cho, Tachikawa City, Tokyo
- Telephone
- 042-512-0910
- Closed
- Mondays, 3rd Tuesday, Sundays, Holidays, Some days in the summer season・New Year’s holiday period.
- Business Hours
- 10:00am - 5:00pm (Admission allowed until 4:30pm)
- Admission
- Free
- Access
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(1) From JR Tachikawa Station, take a bus and get off at "Tachikawa Gakujutsu Plaza," then walk for 1 minute.
(2) About 10 minutes walk from Tama Monorail Takamatsu Station. - Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)