Experience Leading Whale Research: Autumn Events Announcement

As we delve deeper into the fascinating world of whale research, we invite you to participate in exciting autumn events that promise to enlighten attendees about these majestic marine creatures. From informative panels discussing whale ecology and the current state of whaling to delicious tastings of whale cuisine, these events cater to all generations, ensuring an enjoyable learning experience for both children and adults.

Event Schedule

- Date: November 1 (Saturday) - November 30 (Sunday)
- Time: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Last entry at 5:30 PM)
- Location: Nago Museum, Okinawa
- Days Closed: 11/4, 10, 17, 22-25, 27

Additionally, on November 23 (Sunday), we will host the Sugamo Whale Festival 2025 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Shinjoji Temple in the Sugamo shopping district in Tokyo.

For those interested in more information, the Whale Portal site, Kujira Town, provides further details about the Sugamo Whale Festival!

Special Visitor Benefits

All attendees at our events will receive a unique sticker that introduces the primary species of whales currently consumable in Japan. This sticker serves as an excellent educational tool, offering fun facts about various whale types, while the reverse side highlights notable whale species found in Japanese coastal waters. Please note that stickers are available in limited quantities, so we encourage early arrival to secure yours!

Highlights from Recent Events

We also recently hosted the 4th International Whale Research Facility Se abierta en Koichi on October 4, 2025, showcasing a newly established research facility in Taiji, Wakayama. This event allowed participants to learn about the latest developments in whale research, including a presentation by researchers from Chile's CEQUA (Centro de Estudios del Cuaternario), discussing the history of whaling in Chile.

Additionally, practical seminars focused on the culinary aspects of whale meat were conducted in Tokyo and Kochi, demonstrating the significance of whale cuisine as part of Japan's culinary heritage. Participants experienced hands-on cooking sessions where they learned about the history, nutrition, and cooking techniques related to whale meat.

Tokyo Seminar for Nutritionists

At the Shibuya campus of the Hattori Nutrition College, a seminar targeting school nutritionists attracted over 50 attendees. Participants gained insights into the ecological and historical contexts of whales, as well as practical cooking techniques. As they engaged in cooking demonstrations led by expert chefs, many were surprised by the variety of whale species and expressed a newfound appreciation for their culinary applications.

Hands-on Cooking in Kochi

In Kochi, a city famous for its whale cuisine, the KUJIRA Recipe Lesson engaged middle school students and older participants. This event allowed attendees to prepare various types of whale meat—red meat, unesu, saezuri, and skin—under guidance, fostering a deeper connection to their local food culture. Many participants expressed their desire to recreate these dishes at home, emphasizing the importance of keeping traditional culinary practices alive.

Both cooking events not only focused on the techniques for preparing whale meat but also encouraged discussions on sustainable food practices related to whale culture. Many expressed their interest in making whale dishes a regular part of their diets moving forward.

As we look ahead, the Japan Whale Research Institute is committed to promoting scientific knowledge about whale species and preserving Japan’s whale-eating culture. We will continue organizing outreach events, whale cooking classes aimed at younger generations, and seminars tailored for nutritionists and culinary students.

For more information, please visit our official website at Japan Whale Research Institute.

About the Institute

Company Name: Japan Whale Research Institute
Tokyo Office: 4-5 Toyomi-cho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Taiji Office: 1770-1 Taiji-cho, Higashimuro-gun, Wakayama
Establishment: October 1987
Business Activities: Research on whales and other marine mammals, investigation of related international issues
Website: Japan Whale Research Institute