If you are fascinated by the mysteries of Antarctica, a trip to the Polar Science Museum in Tachikawa is a must-do. The museum showcases exhibits based on scientific research carried out by the Japanese Survey Team at Showa Base Antarctica. Some of the displays include Arctic equipment, fallen meteors, and replicas of species found in the region such as Polar Bears, penguins, and various birds.
One of the standout exhibits is a snowmobile and sled from 1968 used during an exhibition from Showa Station to the South Pole. The museum also features interactive stations where visitors can view things under microscopes and learn more about the research team’s travels. Additionally, there is a projection room theater showing the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights) in a 10-minute movie.
A highlight of the museum is a small box near the entrance containing a chunk of ice from Antarctica collected by the survey team. Visitors can touch and feel the actual ice, providing a unique experience. The museum is free to visit and offers insights into life in Antarctica and the work of the Japanese research team.
The Polar Science Museum is located in Tachikawa at 10-3 Midoricho, Tokyo. It is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday, and closed on Sundays and Mondays. While parking is free, it is limited, so it’s recommended to use public transportation or a bike. The museum’s website provides more information about exhibits, and visitors can use Google Translate as most exhibits are in Japanese with English subtitles available for some parts of them too. Please note that phones are not allowed in any room except for general information center.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about one of Earth’s most remote environments while exploring what makes Japan’s Antarctic Survey Team unique!
