Is National Museum of Nature and Science (Japan) Worth Visiting?
The National Museum of Nature and Science in Tokyo is absolutely worth visiting for anyone with an interest in, well, all about nature and science! It's known for its extensive collections covering everything from dinosaurs to the Japanese ecosystem, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Its appeal lies in its ability to present complex scientific concepts in an engaging and accessible way, with interactive exhibits and stunning displays that cater to all ages. Whether you're fascinated by fossils or curious about the cosmos, this museum offers a captivating journey through the natural world.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit National Museum of Nature and Science (Japan)
Planning your visit to the National Museum of Nature and Science? Knowing the opening hours and the best time to visit will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here's what you need to know to make the most of your trip and find the best time to see the exhibits.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 8:00 PM (last entry at 7:30 PM).
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings are generally less crowded, offering a more relaxed viewing experience. Avoid weekends and public holidays if possible, as these tend to be the busiest times.
- Best Time to Go: Arriving shortly after the museum opens at 9:00 AM on a weekday will give you the best chance to explore the exhibits without large crowds. The museum tends to be less busy in the late afternoon on weekdays as well.
- Estimated Visit Duration: Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the museum's extensive collections. You could easily spend an entire day here if you're particularly interested in the exhibits.
Location Details about National Museum of Nature and Science (Japan)
If you're wondering where is the National Museum of Nature and Science, it's conveniently located in Ueno Park, making it easily accessible. Here are the essential location details to help you plan your visit.
- Address: 7-20 Uenokoen, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-8718, Japan
- Parking Availability: Limited parking is available at Ueno Park, but it's recommended to use public transport due to the high demand. Several nearby parking garages are also available for those who prefer to drive.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms available throughout the building. Wheelchairs are also available for loan at the information desk.
How Much to Enter / Visit National Museum of Nature and Science (Japan)
Planning a visit to the National Museum of Nature and Science and curious about the tickets? Here's a breakdown of the prices and where to buy them, so you can easily plan your tour.
- Ticket Price: General admission is ¥630 for adults. High school students and younger can enter for free.
- Pricing Variations: There are no variations in pricing between weekends and weekdays. Special exhibitions may have separate admission fees.
- Where to Buy: Tickets can be purchased at the museum's ticket counters on the day of your visit. You can also purchase tickets online in advance to avoid potential queues.
How To Go to National Museum of Nature and Science (Japan)
Figuring out how to go to the National Museum of Nature and Science is straightforward thanks to Tokyo's excellent public transport system. Here are the best routes to get there.
- MRT: The closest station is Ueno Station, served by the JR Yamanote Line, JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, JR Joban Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, and Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line. From Ueno Station, it's a short 5-10 minute walk through Ueno Park to the museum.
- Airport Routes: From Narita Airport, take the Narita Express to Tokyo Station, then transfer to the JR Yamanote Line to Ueno Station. From Haneda Airport, take the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho Station, then transfer to the JR Yamanote Line to Ueno Station.
- Public Transport Tips: Consider purchasing a Suica or Pasmo card for easy and convenient travel on Tokyo's public transport. These rechargeable cards can be used on most trains and buses.
Things To Do in or near the National Museum of Nature and Science
Looking for nearby attractions and nearby activities around the National Museum of Nature and Science? Ueno Park and the surrounding area offer a wealth of things to see and do. Here are some top picks for things to do nearby.
- Activities in National Museum of Nature and Science:
- Explore the Japan Gallery to learn about the natural history of Japan.
- Visit the Global Gallery to discover the Earth's diverse ecosystems.
- Attend a planetarium show for an immersive astronomical experience.
- Participate in interactive exhibits to learn about scientific principles.
- Wander through the museum's gardens to see native plant species.
- Activities Nearby National Museum of Nature and Science:
- Visit Ueno Zoo, Japan's oldest zoo, located within Ueno Park.
- Explore the Tokyo National Museum, home to an extensive collection of Japanese art and artifacts.
- Stroll through Ueno Park, a beautiful green space with numerous museums and cultural attractions.
- Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum to see a variety of contemporary and historical art.
- Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Shinobazu Pond in Ueno Park.
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Nearby MRT Station & Bus Stops near the National Museum of Nature and Science Japan
Navigating to the National Museum of Nature and Science is easy with the nearby MRT station and bus stops nearby. Here's a guide to the closest transport options.
- Nearby MRT Station: Ueno Station (JR Yamanote Line, JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, JR Joban Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line) - Approximately a 5-10 minute walk.
- Nearby Bus Stops: Several bus stops are located around Ueno Park, including stops for the Toei Bus lines. Check local bus schedules for specific routes and times.
- Transport Card Info: Suica and Pasmo cards are widely accepted on both trains and buses in Tokyo, making travel convenient and cashless.
Tips To Go to National Museum of Nature and Science (Japan) and Safety Tips
Planning a visit to the National Museum of Nature and Science? Here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and safe experience, including what to bring and how to stay safe.
- What to Bring:
- Comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
- A water bottle to stay hydrated.
- A camera to capture your favourite exhibits.
- A portable charger for your phone.
- A Suica or Pasmo card for easy transport.
- Tourist Safety Tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Use common sense and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases for easier communication.
- Keep a copy of your passport and other important documents in a safe place.
- Familiarise yourself with local emergency numbers.
Best Hotel Area in Japan
Choosing the best area to stay in Japan can greatly enhance your travel experience. Each neighbourhood offers a unique atmosphere and attractions. Here are some of the best districts to consider.
- Best Area to Stay in Japan:
- Shinjuku, Tokyo: Ideal for first-time visitors, offering excellent transport links, shopping, and dining options.
- Ginza, Tokyo: Perfect for luxury travellers, known for its high-end boutiques, upscale restaurants, and refined atmosphere.
- Shibuya, Tokyo: Great for young travellers and those seeking trendy fashion, vibrant nightlife, and iconic landmarks like the Shibuya Crossing.
- Kyoto City Centre, Kyoto: Best for cultural enthusiasts, offering easy access to historic temples, traditional gardens, and geisha districts.
- Namba, Osaka: Suitable for foodies and budget travellers, known for its lively street food scene, affordable accommodations, and entertainment options.
Where to Eat Inside or near National Museum of Nature and Science (Japan)
Looking for where to eat near the National Museum of Nature and Science? Whether you're craving Japanese food or just a quick bite, there are plenty of options both inside and nearby.
- Cafes/Restaurants:
- Mori no Terrace (inside the museum): Offers a variety of light meals, snacks, and beverages in a relaxed setting.
- Starbucks Ueno Park: Located a short walk from the museum in Ueno Park, perfect for a coffee and pastry.
- Hard Rock Cafe Ueno Eki Tokyo: Situated near Ueno Station, this iconic cafe offers American cuisine with a rock 'n' roll atmosphere.
- Local Street Food:
- Takoyaki: Octopus balls, a popular Osaka street food, often found at food stalls near Ueno Station.
- Yakitori: Grilled chicken skewers, a classic Japanese snack, available at many izakayas (Japanese pubs) in the Ueno area.
- Taiyaki: Fish-shaped pastry filled with sweet red bean paste, a delightful treat often sold near Ueno Park.
Shopping Places near National Museum of Nature and Science (Taito, Tokyo)
If you're in the mood for some retail therapy, there are several fantastic shopping places near the National Museum of Nature and Science. From bustling shopping streets to department stores, here are some top spots.
- Shopping Places near Taito, Tokyo:
- Ameya Yokocho (Ameyoko): A vibrant shopping street near Ueno Station, offering a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce to clothing and souvenirs.
- Ueno Marui: A department store located near Ueno Station, featuring a range of fashion brands, cosmetics, and household goods.
- Akihabara: Known as "Electric Town," Akihabara is a short train ride from Ueno and is famous for its electronics stores, anime and manga shops, and themed cafes.
Best Hotels to Stay near National Museum of Nature and Science (Japan)
Finding the best place to stay near the National Museum of Nature and Science is easy with a variety of hotels in the area. Here are a few top accommodations to consider.
- Best Hotels to Stay near National Museum of Nature and Science:
- Mitsui Garden Hotel Ueno is a modern hotel offering comfortable rooms and convenient access to Ueno Park and the museum.
- Hotel Graphy Nezu provides stylish accommodations with a focus on art and design, located in the charming Nezu neighbourhood.
- Parkside Hotel Ueno is a well-regarded hotel with excellent amenities and a prime location near Ueno Park.
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Hotels with Swimming Pools near National Museum of Nature and Science
Looking for a hotel with swimming pools near the National Museum of Nature and Science? While options directly in Ueno are limited, here are some hotels in Tokyo with excellent pool facilities.
- Imperial Hotel is a luxurious hotel in the heart of Tokyo, featuring both indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
- Park Hyatt Tokyo, famous for its appearance in "Lost in Translation," offers a stunning indoor pool with panoramic city views.
- Hilton Tokyo has a seasonal outdoor pool and a year-round indoor pool, providing a relaxing escape in the bustling city.
Hotels with Parking near National Museum of Nature and Science
If you're driving to the National Museum of Nature and Science, finding a hotel with parking is essential. Here are some hotels in Tokyo that offer convenient parking facilities.
- Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo provides ample parking for guests and is conveniently located near Shinjuku Station.
- Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba offers on-site parking and is situated in the Odaiba area, known for its entertainment and shopping options.
- Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro has parking facilities and is located near Ikebukuro Station, a major transportation hub.
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Best Accommodations near Japan Airport
Finding convenient accommodations near Japan's airports can make your travel experience much smoother. Here are some of the best hotels close to Narita and Haneda Airports.
- For those flying into Haneda Airport, the Shinagawa Prince Hotel offers easy access to the airport via train and boasts numerous amenities. The Hilton Tokyo Odaiba is another excellent choice, providing stunning views of Tokyo Bay and convenient transportation options. Alternatively, consider Hotel MyStays Premier Omori, which offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to Haneda Airport.
- If you're arriving at Narita Airport, the Narita Tobu Hotel Airport provides a free shuttle service and comfortable rooms for a relaxing stay. Another great option is Hotel Nikko Narita, which offers excellent amenities and convenient access to the airport terminals. Lastly, the Narita Gateaway Hotel provides a comfortable and convenient stay with its proximity to the airport and shuttle service.
Average Room Rate hotels near National Museum of Nature and Science
When planning your trip to the National Museum of Nature and Science, it's helpful to know the average room rate for hotels in the area. Prices can vary depending on the season and availability, so it's always a good idea to check Traveloka for the latest prices and deals.
Generally, you can expect to find a range of options from budget-friendly accommodations to more luxurious hotels, with average room rates ranging from £80 to £200 per night. Don't forget to use the new user promo code BOOKTRAVELOKA to get up to 8% OFF your booking!
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Conclusion
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