#Japan #Tokyo #Kids Design #Funeshiru #MOL Museum

MOL Museum 'Funeshiru' Recognized with the 20th Kids Design Award

The MOL Museum, known as 'Funeshiru', has recently been honored with the prestigious 20th Kids Design Award for its outstanding efforts in fostering a safe and engaging learning environment for children. Operated by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), this interactive museum plays a vital role in educating children about the maritime industry and the responsibilities of seafarers through various experiential exhibits.

The Kids Design Award: A Brief Overview

Founded in 2007, the Kids Design Award aims to celebrate designs that contribute to creating a society and environment where children feel happiness. Each year, it recognizes outstanding efforts in design, focusing on aspects that help nurture children's sensibilities and creativity. The award emphasizes not only child-centric designs but also those developed for adults that maintain a focus on children's needs.

Funeshiru's Approach to Learning

At Funeshiru, children can learn the significance of maritime activities and the roles of ship crews through immersive experiences. The museum features a variety of interactive displays, including a ship operation simulator and a panoramic theater, allowing visitors to engage deeply with maritime concepts. The exhibits are designed to be appealing and educational for a range of ages, primarily targeting elementary and middle school students and their families.

Key Features of Funeshiru:

1. Interactive Learning Environments: Funeshiru boasts numerous hands-on exhibitions where children can engage with maritime activities through play, promoting deeper understanding through experience.
2. Child-Friendly Design: The museum's layout is intentionally open, minimizing barriers to ensure parents and teachers can easily supervise children from anywhere within the facility. Safety is paramount, with rounded furniture and attentive staff available to assist visitors and enhance their experience.
3. Café and Retail Offerings: The museum also features a café serving original curry dishes made from global ingredients, providing a unique opportunity for children to learn about maritime roles through the context of food. Additionally, a shop selling over 100 unique items allows visitors to take a piece of their learning experience home with them.

Commitment to Future Generations

MOL is dedicated to providing ongoing opportunities through Funeshiru for the next generation to connect with the world of shipping and seafaring. As a pioneering institution, it aims to cultivate interest and knowledge about maritime affairs among children, contributing to a more informed future generation.

The recognition by the Kids Design Award highlights the importance of creating safe, engaging educational spaces for children, and Funeshiru exemplifies this mission impressively.

For further details about the award and the museum, you can refer to Mitsui O.S.K. Lines’ official press releases.