National Science Museum (Kokuritsu Kahaku Hakubutsukan)

Frommer's Review

Japan's largest science museum has been undergoing renovations that should bring it up to par with some of the world's top national science museums (the main building, with a focus on Japan, is scheduled to reopen in autumn 2006). Everything from the evolution of life to Japanese inventions and technology is covered in expansive, imaginative displays, with plenty of exhibits geared toward children. A highlight is an entire arena of 100-some taxidermic animals from around the world, including a polar bear, camel, gorilla, tiger, bear, and other creatures (some are animals that died at Ueno Zoo). Other highlights include a dinosaur display, a hands-on discovery room for children exploring sound, light, magnetism, and other scientific phenomena, re-created wood and marine habitats, and an extensive exhibition that allows visitors to stroll through some 4 billion years of evolutionary history. You'll want to spend about 2 hours here, more if you have children in tow.

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