Overview of NMNS

Our Mission

Legal Basis

The Independent Administrative Institution National Museum of Nature and Science was established in accordance with the Law on the National Museum of Nature and Science, and with the Act on General Rules for Incorporated Administrative Agencies. The Museum’s objective is to conduct investigative work and research activities in natural history and other realms of natural sciences along with their applications, and to collect and preserve scientific specimens (including care and management of living collections), and to share the results of these labors with the general public in aim to promote natural sciences and science education in society.

Mission

The National Museum of Nature and Science serves as the core research institute for natural history and the history of science and technology. As the country’s leading museum, the Museum conducts investigative work and research activities, collects / preserves / utilizes specimens and materials, as well as offers exhibitions and education activities. These activities contribute to deepen the people’s awareness toward earth, life, science, technology, and related global issues, and help them to examine the ideal relationship between the earth and humankind.

Medium-term objectives

As an Independent Administrative Institution, the Museum prepares its own medium-term and annual plans in pursuing its activities to achieve the medium-term objectives set forth by the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. The current medium-term objective (FY2021-2025) includes that the Museum should fulfill the following roles.

1. The Museum shall research and study of natural history and the history of science and technology.
2. The Museum shall collect, organize and preserve its vast national collection.
3. The Museum shall promote exhibitions and educational programs to improve people’s scientific literacy

National Museum of Nature and Science Profile

Who We Are

Established in 1877, the National Museum of Nature and Science (Kahaku) is one of the oldest museums in Japan. It is also the only national museum in the country that offers a comprehensive exhibition of natural history and the history of science and technology.
Kahaku plays a core role among science museums in Japan and in the Asian region. It promotes three fundamental activities; conducting research studies, collecting and preserving specimens and materials, and organizing exhibitions and educational programs.
These activities are carried out in three districts. The first is Ueno district, consisting of Japan Gallery and Global Gallery. The second is Tsukuba district, consisting of Tsukuba Botanical Garden and Tsukuba Research Departments and the Research and Natural History Collection Wings. The third is Institute for Nature Study

Independent Administrative Institution
National Museum of Nature and Science Profile 2025

Organization