Science and Technology in Japan
In February of 2016, the national government of Japan has launched what they called the Science and Technology plan. The field of Science and Technology in Japan focus more on robotics and electronics than any other fields. Japan has been well known for developing a number of electronic products that have been in the market for the longest time.
Other than consumer science, Japan is now on the lookout for the improvement of power and energy production, especially after the meltdown of two major nuclear plants in 2011. Another aspect they have been working hard to develop would be space travel. Japan has been known to develop their own rockets, modules, and shuttles. Many of these have already reached the International Space Station.
Science and Technology are very important for the Japanese and they have ensured that they pioneer researches, innovations, and more. They are held in quite a high regard and are considered one of the leading countries in Science and technology. What matters now is to maintain this position and maintain the interests of their younger generations.
Science Museums in Japan: What is so special about Science and Technology museums in Japan?
Because of the Science and Technology Plan of Japan, trying to entice the intrigue of young children towards Science is imperative. It must come naturally for them to find passion in the field, else success might not be attainable in the future. With the continuous globalization of the world, the position of Japan in Technological success cannot be maintained without proper actions. Thus, the introduction of fun, interactive Science Museums to children is a great way to entice their curiosity about the different subject matter for research.
Not only will these museums hold the milestones for which Science and Technology have grown in the country. Furthermore, the presence of these kinds of Science centers ensures that the nation develops not only the minds of the youth but also the facilities with which scientific ideas can be generated. The further study of Science and Technology can make the future healthier and safer for the generations to come.
Through these science centers, the collaboration of local Japanese scientists with international organizations can be exhibited and properly demonstrated to the public. It is imperative because it may be through these research collaborations that diplomacy between and among countries can be established.
Tips for going to Science Centers in Japan
Anyone going for a trip to Japan must make sure that their travel itineraries include at least a few museums both for science and for history. This is so that a deeper appreciation of Japan can be achieved since the country has more to offer besides its unique and beautiful culture and art.
The sad thing about science museums is that there are not that much visitors that come every day. For travelers, this is a good thing because it is easier to appreciate the exhibitions when there are not many people around. Just to make sure, it would be best to go on a weekday and during the early morning. Most tourists go during the afternoons or during noon time. Families also go during the weekends. The time it would be least crowded is during the early mornings of weekdays.
Another thing to remember is to plan ahead. Most museums are buildings with multiple floors and it would take a couple of hours to fully enjoy all the details of each floor. Most museums have audio guides or recorded guides that will describe certain exhibitions as if there is a person guiding and touring. It is also a good idea to avail this kind of service.
When visiting a museum, make sure to get a map of the place. This is so that guests are aware of the exits, the bathrooms, and the exhibits. This is also a good way to avoid going around in circles. This would make the trip more efficient and less time-consuming.
Also, make sure to check if food and drinks are allowed within the premises. Most of the time, drinks and food are not allowed in certain places and must be deposited or thrown away before entering. This is because they might create potential damages to exhibitions or displays. If there are no cafes or cafeterias inside the museum, it might be a good idea to eat ahead because walking around seven-floored museums can be a bit exhausting.
What every foreign tourist must remember about Science Museums in Japan is the fact that most, if not all, of the shows, are usually presented in the Japanese language. The exhibitions and displays have English translations to the side. However, presentations and shows are usually done in the native language.
Some museums present scheduled shows in the English language, so it might be a good idea to watch out for these. It will make the experience more enjoyable. Furthermore, museums are not only for children they can be for adults too. These kinds of places are great for those who are curious – one of the most important points and tips to remember.
It shows the latest developments in Science and Technology, presents robots that were developed through the years, and more. Science museums offer up knowledge that is not exactly taught in school. So, even adults can find enjoyment in going to a museum. It is also a good place to learn something new.
The Best Science Museums in Japan
Science Museum in Tokyo Japan: National Museum of Nature and Science
The National Museum of Nature and Science is located at the northern corner of Ueno Park in Tokyo. It is one of the oldest and most valuable museums of all of Japan since its establishment in 1871. This museum is also known as the Tokyo Science Museum. It is also given the name the National Museum of Nature and Science only in 2007.
There are displays of Nipponites or thousand-year-old ammonites from pre-human Japan. There is also a display of bones of the Futabasaurus which is a species of dinosaur native to the Prefecture of Fukushima, Japan. Such a dinosaur was only named in 2006. There are also recreated models of the prehistoric Japanese people known as the Jomon. It features their lifestyle, the things they eat, their community, and more.
Most of its exhibitions focus on the explorations of ancient Japan with regards to science and medicine. There are a number of displays showing what is known as pre-Meiji Science in Japan. These include natural history displays.
The place is opened between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM every day. Usually, they are closed for maintenance every Mondays of the week. They are also closed during the New Year holidays. What is special about this place is that admission is free.
Hamagin Space Science center
Also known as the Yokohama Space Center or Hamagin Space Science Center, this place is a museum that features anything space related as its major theme. It is located at Isogo-Ku Yokohama, Japan. It is located in a 5-storey building with different exhibits for kids and adults alike. There are shows and presentations which are very educational for young children about rockets, and much more.
Every floor has a different theme and something unique to offer. There are play areas with ladders, tunnels, and slides – which is one of its major attractions. There are even rides for bigger kids which are very interesting since it is a communal place for all its guests. There is a café inside the museum for snacks and rests. There are also exhibits of microscopes, giant robots, and more. The experience is always worth it. There are also nooks for reading magazines and books about the latest regarding gizmos, technology, and robots.
The opening hours is from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The space center is usually closed during the first and third Mondays of each month for maintenance. They are also opened during holidays except for December 29 to January 3 which is the New Year’s holidays. Tickets for adults usually cost around 600 yen and students usually cost about 200 yen.
Miraikan Science Museum
The Miraikan, more formally known as the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, is one of the most high-technology museums in Japan especially at the time it was established. There are science workshops available for grade schoolers. There are also curiosity fields intended for toddlers and pre-schoolers.
Exhibitions include different displays and demonstrations about the Universe, the Earth, Life, and humans. There are also talking robots. There are exhibits for technology and innovation that shows guests diagrams of certain systems replicated from nature to technology. It is a good place to go to during seasons and weather intended for the indoors.
It is usually opened between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM. They normally have Tuesdays closed up for maintenance. During national holidays, they are usually open except for the New Years. All kids under the age of 18 years are free every Saturdays. Adult tickets normally cost about 620 yen and all tickets for guests under the age of 18 costs 210 yen.
Science Museum Osaka Japan: Osaka Science Museum
The Osaka Science Museum is one of the most interesting places to visit in Osaka, especially for children. It is a four-floor building complete with high-technology, interactive exhibitions. The original plan of the Osaka Science Museum is to cater to the curiosity of young children.
There is a planetarium inside, science shows, and more. What they boast most about is the Omni Max panoramic screen system which is one of the largest in the world that offers up shows to their visitors. Their planetarium is also one of the most special in the world.
Usually, the museum is opened from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily. They are closed every Monday and New Year holidays. However, all days of the year they are open to cater to students, adults, and families trying to enrich their experience in Science and Technology. The tickets usually cost around 400 yen.
Science Museum Nagoya Japan: Nagoya City Science Museum
The Nagoya City Science Museum is one of the most popular museums in the area with its primary highlight and attraction to be one of the world’s largest planetarium. They have a monthly event that highlights and displays the latest astronomical phenomena – such as meteor showers, eclipses and more.
The entire museum has seven floors each of which has a specific theme. There are interactive lab experiments such as the “Deep Freezing Lab” and the “Tornado Lab” which offers up experiments to explain how tornados happen and what the conditions are at the Earth’s poles.
The museum charges about 400 yen for every visitor with an additional 400 yen for entrance to the planetarium. Just like other museums in the country, the Nagoya City Science Museum is opened from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM and are closed during Mondays and the New Year Holidays. All other times of the year they are happy to serve.
The Future of Science in Asia
Japan has been known to be among the countries in the world that pioneer the development of Science and Technology. Their school curricula have always included programs and learning opportunities that ensure the curiosity of the youth. Innovation and creativity are strongly encouraged in schools.
Through the years, other countries around the region started to follow the footsteps of Japan in ensuring that they are competitive when it comes to innovation and technology. This encompasses a variety of subjects which include space, life, medicine, robotics, and much more.
In the future, the world seems to see another step farther when it comes to technology, particularly communication. There are now prototypes being developed that could better ease up difficulties in daily communication.
Without a doubt, the future of Science in Asia seems bright. As a region, countries in Asia help one another achieve scientific goals by sharing researches and findings through literature and publication. There are also exchange programs that allow citizens of one country to travel to the other for the exchange of learning.