National Museum of Science - Free Audio Guide

The National Museum of Nature and Science (国立科学博物館), located in Ueno Park, Tokyo, is Japan’s principal museum for natural history and scientific heritage. Founded in the late 19th century, it preserves extensive collections that document Japan’s biodiversity, geological record and technological development, including notable fossil and skeleton specimens and historic scientific instruments. The site combines permanent thematic galleries—covering Japanese natural history and global science—with rotating special exhibitions and educational programs aimed at diverse audiences. As an institution it plays an important role in research, conservation and public science literacy, and its holdings reflect key moments in Japan’s modernization and international exchange. General visitor information: the museum operates regular daytime opening days with occasional closures, charges admission with concessional rates and free-entry provisions for some groups, and maintains barrier-reduction facilities such as ramps, elevators and accessible restrooms while interpretive accessibility varies by gallery.