Ehime Prefectural Science Museum

This large science museum features a planetarium with one of the world’s largest domes, measuring 30 meters in diameter. Inside, the museum is divided into the Nature Hall, Science and Technology Hall, and Industry Hall, where visitors can learn through hands-on experiences about space, Earth, Ehime’s natural environment, scientific principles, and the history of local industries.

The Nature Hall introduces Ehime’s natural environment, Earth’s history, and the evolution of life, and also displays large dinosaur skeleton specimens and models. Especially impressive are the life-size robotic Tyrannosaurus and Triceratops, which come to life with roaring sound effects every 15 minutes.

The Science and Technology Hall features hands-on exhibits on themes such as sound, light, and optical illusions, allowing visitors to learn about scientific phenomena by operating various devices. The Industry Hall introduces the Besshi Copper Mine, as well as the papermaking and shipbuilding industries that have supported Ehime’s development.

The planetarium presents seasonal starry-sky explanations and powerful full-dome videos. Images of the night sky and outer space projected across the vast screen create a highly immersive experience on a scale rarely found in everyday life. With commentary, visitors can learn about the origins of the universe and the movement of the stars, combining intellectual stimulation with entertainment.

In addition, special exhibitions and themed exhibitions are held regularly inside the museum, so visitors can encounter different displays depending on when they visit. As a place to enjoy learning through science, it is popular with people of all ages.