Tokyo · Ueno and Yanaka
National Museum of Nature and Science
The National Museum of Nature and Science, known as 'Kahaku', is housed in two buildings. The Japan Gallery (Nihonkan) from 1931, an Important Cultural Property, is built in the shape of an airplane when you look at it from above. Next to it is the modern Global Gallery (Chikyukan), and in front of the entrance stands a life-size model of a blue whale.
On floor 2 of the Japan Gallery, in the north wing, stands the most surprising item in the collection: the stuffed body of Hachiko, the loyal Akita dog who waited for his owner at Shibuya Station until his death in 1935. The statue in Shibuya is only a memorial, the real dog is here. Next to him is Jiro, one of the sled dogs of the Japanese Antarctic expedition, whose story became a film.
The dome theater 'Theater 360', in 360 degrees, is included in the regular admission, at no extra charge. Part of the Global Gallery is currently under renovation: floor 2 is partly closed, and B3 has been closed since 8 September 2026 for maintenance of the display.
Good to know
- Closed on Mondays (when Monday is a holiday, it closes on Tuesday instead). Admission is ¥630, and free up to age 18.
- Theater 360, the dome film, is included in the admission price. You do not need another ticket.
- Since 8 September 2026 floor B3 of the Global Gallery is closed for renovation of the display. Part of floor 2 there is closed too. It is worth checking before your visit which halls are open.
What is nearby
Approximate walking minutes from the entrance of National Museum of Nature and Science.
- HereNational Museum of Nature and Science
- ~4 min
Ueno Toshogu Shrine More to see
A Shinto shrine from 1651, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, with a gold-covered hall. ¥700 for the inner courtyard.
- ~6 min
Ueno Seiyoken Landaulet Food
A French and Western restaurant from 1876 on the edge of Shinobazu Pond. Lunch menu from ¥3,000.
- ~8 min
Starbucks Coffee Ueno Onshi Koen Cafe
A branch in a low wooden building inside the park, between the museums. A place to sit on a rainy day without leaving the park.
- ~11 min
Anmitsu Mihashi Ueno Honten Cafe
A long-established Japanese sweets shop near Ameyoko. Cream anmitsu, ¥840.
- ~12 min
Yamashiroya Toy Store Shopping
A toy and model shop on eight floors, next to the Hirokoji Exit of Ueno Station.
- ~13 min
Ameyoko Shopping Street Street
A market that rose after the war under the railway tracks in Ueno: street snacks, dried seafood and cheap clothes.