National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan)
2 Chome-3-6 Aomi, Koto, Tokyo, Kanto, 135-0064
Tokyo’s National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan for short) is a fun spot dedicated to technology and the way it affects our lives. Visit this family-friendly attraction to see robot demonstrations, enjoy interactive exhibits, watch films projected on a domed screen, and participate in talks with scientists.
The Basics
The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation explores science and technology as they relate to humans, space, innovation, and information. All of the exhibits are produced by scientists, engineers, and experts in their fields. There are also many hands-on exhibits that are especially appealing to older kids. Visitors can combine a couple hours (or more) at the museum with stops at other high-tech attractions and museums on Odaiba Island.
Things to Know Before You Go
Almost all the museum’s exhibits have both English and Japanese signage.
Allow at least two hours for a visit.
There are separate entry fees for the permanent exhibits and the screenings in the Dome Theater, though to purchase a ticket to the theater you must also purchase general admission.
The museum is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Miraikan is located on Odaiba, an artificial island in Tokyo Bay. It’s easy to reach by train, and the closest stations are the Fune-no Kagakukan (Tokyo International Cruise Terminal) Station and Telecom Center Station, both on the Yurikamome Line. Both are a short walk from the museum. A free shuttle bus service, the Tokyo Bay Shuttle, connects Odaiba’s many attractions.
When to Get There
The museum is open Wednesday–Monday (and on Tuesdays that are public holidays) from mid-morning until late afternoon. Tokyo’s museums tend to be very busy on the weekends, but mid-week they can also be busy with school groups.
Ride the Palette Town Ferris Wheel
The Odaiba area is full of fun, interesting, and high-tech activities, and the tallest of all is the Palette Town Ferris Wheel (Daikanransha). Each of the wheel’s cabins is a different color, and the whole wheel lights up in a colorful display after dark. The day and nighttime views from the top of the wheel are some of the best in Tokyo.
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