#Japan #Tokyo #Digital Exhibition #Tokyo Nature #Minato Science Museum

Explore Tokyo's Nature in a Digital Way: Special Exhibition

The Minato Science Museum in Minato City, Tokyo, is excited to announce its autumn exhibition titled "Discover the Natural Life of Tokyo through Digital Technology". This event runs from September 16 to November 8, 2026, in collaboration with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

Tokyo is often associated with its towering skyscrapers and bustling city life, but if we take a moment to look closer, we will find that our surroundings are rich with an astonishing variety of natural life.

This exhibition leverages cutting-edge digital technologies, such as 8K videos, 360° underwater visuals, and AR mapping, to provide visitors with an interactive experience showcasing the rich biodiversity of Tokyo. Additionally, for the first time, the museum will feature a mini-exhibition titled "Exploring Familiar Nature", crafted by local children. Selected from a range of participants, these young explorers will exhibit their findings on nature in their neighborhoods, showcasing their creativity and inquiry-based learning through panels and artwork.

The exhibition aims to bridge the gap between high-tech and traditional explorative methods. Visitors will gain insights into the importance of appreciating the urban natural environment through both digital displays and hands-on activities, deepening their understanding of the rich biodiversity just outside their doorstep.

In conjunction with the exhibition, various events will be hosted throughout the duration, including outdoor nature observation sessions and woodcutting experiences. These activities will enable participants to experience Tokyo's hidden natural wonders firsthand.

Highlights of the Exhibition

1. Tokyo Nature Scope: Visitors can manipulate a monitor to zoom in on various creatures that inhabit Tokyo's diverse ecosystems, from Mount Mitake to Inokashira Park and even the volcanic island of Izu Oshima.

2. Tama River 360° Tour: This interactive tour takes visitors on a journey along the Tama River, allowing them to view aquatic life from a 360-degree perspective.

3. AR Nature Encyclopedia: A 5.4-meter interactive map of Tokyo that, when paired with a tablet, reveals the wildlife icons of various species found locally.

4. Nature Sounds Music Maker: Attendees can mix the calls of various creatures like the brown-headed thrush and the common frog to create unique music.

5. Invasive Species Quiz: Guests will participate in an interactive quiz that evaluates their knowledge of which local species are native and which are invasive.

Children-Led Mini Exhibition

In a groundbreaking initiative, children from Minato City recently engaged in a creative journey that led them to present their exploration of local nature. After a selection process, four participants worked for four months to delve into themes centered on "Nature in Minato City". They examined various aspects near local parks, homes, and schools, figuring out their observations through inquiry-based activities. This endeavor resulted in an exhibition showcasing their findings through panels, videos, and personal insights.

On October 12, these young artists will directly engage with visitors during an exhibition explanation session, sharing their discoveries and answering questions.

Interactive Opportunities

Visitors are encouraged to bring in their own observations of local plants, animals, and scenery, documenting them on leaf-shaped cards that will beautify a cardboard tree, symbolizing the community’s collective appreciation for local nature.

Related Events

During this 52-day exhibition, several related events will also take place:
1. Nature Observation at the Natural Education Garden: Led by staff from the National Museum of Nature and Science, participants will explore the garden to learn about autumn flora and fauna.
2. Learning about Urban Trees: A workshop with a certified arborist who will educate participants about the trees that thrive in urban settings.
3. Child-Led Exhibition Commentary: Children will personally explain their projects to visitors, providing genuine insights into their research.
4. Research a Forest: Experience timber harvesting and environmental quizzes in a local forest setting.
5. Lecture on Bears: Engage with experts to learn about the increasing bear sightings in Tokyo and how we can coexist with wildlife.

This upcoming exhibition promises to be an enjoyable learning experience for visitors of all ages, inspiring them to explore the natural world around them. After enjoying the exhibition, why not step outside and discover the vibrant and colorful autumn nature that Tokyo has to offer? Join us for this immersive journey through the heart of Tokyo's natural beauty!

For More Information:
Location: Minato Science Museum, 3-6-9 Toranomon, Minato City, Tokyo
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Last entry at 7:30 PM.
Admission: Free (Special programs may have charges). Visit our website for more details: Minato Science Museum