For engaging and hands-on experiences with the nation’s famous scientific expertise, visit this interactive museum, which includes Japan’s first planetarium.
The Osaka Science Museum offers the wonders of the universe in a family-friendly, interactive style. Seek out its distinctive swirling design near the Kansai Electric headquarters on Nakanoshima Island. The museum reopened in 1989 with support from Kansai as part of Osaka City’s 100-year celebrations. Reflect on the illustrious heritage of this site, which held a 1930s electricity museum that was the first science museum in Japan.
Explore four floors of exhibits, with more than 200 objects broadly focused on themes of energy and the universe. Adults and children can enjoy the dynamic displays.
After buying your tickets, ride the elevator to the top floor to peruse installations dedicated to the fundamental principles of science and displays about outer space. Look for a historic star map from the Edo period.
Encounter the material world on the third floor, which presents insights into chemistry through an array of minerals, gemstones and more. Engage your senses at smellable and touchable installations.
On the second floor, particularly suitable for younger children, a variety of creative exhibits bring the laws of science to life.
Make sure to greet Japan’s earliest “robot,” Gakutensoku, on the first floor. The original version of this giant automaton, built in 1929, could write Chinese characters and make facial expressions via an ingenious air pressure mechanism. Admire the new and improved version, whose movements are guided by computer.
If you understand Japanese, head to one of the scientific shows and demonstrations held throughout the day. Make time to admire the planetarium, not only Japan’s largest but also one of its most advanced. Watch dazzling reproductions of the starry night sky and listen to presentations about astronomical phenomena. Afterward, browse unique souvenirs and publications in the gift shop and relax at the on-site café.
Find the Osaka Science Museum on the island of Nakanoshima in central Osaka. The Watanabebashi Station is just a few minutes away by foot. While only a small amount of explanatory information is available in English, the museum’s interactive exhibits are attractive even without descriptions.
There is a for entry to the . The museum, which is is closed on Mondays.
