National Museum of Nature & Science

Ueno & Yanesen


The Japan Gallery here showcases the rich and varied wildlife of the Japanese archipelago, from the bears of Hokkaidō to the giant beetles of Okinawa. Elsewhere in this fascinating museum: a rocket launcher, an Edo-era mummy and a digital seismograph that charts earthquakes in real time. There’s English signage throughout, plus an English-language audio guide (¥300).

Special exhibitions cost extra.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Ueno & Yanesen attractions

1. National Museum of Western Art

0.06 MILES

The permanent collection here runs from medieval Madonna-and-child images to 20th-century abstract expressionism, but is strongest in French impressionism…

2. Tōyōkan

0.11 MILES

Part of the Tokyo National Museum, the three-storey Gallery of Asian Art focuses on pieces from across the region, including delicate Chinese ceramics and…

3. Kuro-mon

0.17 MILES

West of the main gate to Tokyo National Museum is the Kuro-mon (Black Gate), transported from the Edo-era mansion of a feudal lord. You can view the…

4. Tokyo National Museum

0.17 MILES

If you visit only one museum in Tokyo, make it the Tokyo National Museum. Here you'll find the world's largest collection of Japanese art, including…

5. Hyokeikan

0.18 MILES

Within the grounds of the Tokyo National Museum, this grand 1909 Western-style hall is only used for special exhibitions and events.

6. Ueno-kōen

0.22 MILES

Best known for its profusion of cherry trees that burst into blossom in spring (making this one of Tokyo's top hanami – blossom-viewing – spots),…

7. Gallery of Hōryū-ji Treasures

0.22 MILES

This enchanting gallery, part of the Tokyo National Museum, displays masks, metalwork and sculptures from the temple Hōryū-ji (in Nara Prefecture, dating…

8. Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Art

0.23 MILES

This museum hosts blockbuster shows with art on loan from local and international museums (such as New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art); you could be…