Guide
Hakusan Dinosaur Park Shiramine, located in Kuwajima, Hakusan City, Ishikawa Prefecture, is a museum dedicated to dinosaurs and paleontology. This area is celebrated as the "birthplace of Japanese geology." The museum showcases precious fossils discovered from the "Kuwajima Fossil Wall," a national natural monument. The centerpiece is the dome-shaped "Dinosaur Hall," which houses a striking Tyrannosaurus robot and a massive Diplodocus skeleton exceeding 20 meters in length. Visitors can also engage with nature through hands-on activities at the outdoor "Fossil Discovery Plaza," providing a multi-sensory learning experience.
The Kuwajima area in Hakusan holds significant geological importance. The "Kuwajima Fossil Wall" is a site where plant fossils from approximately 130 million years ago were discovered, playing a vital role in the development of Japanese geological studies. The park also serves as an educational hub for the Hakusan-Tachiki River Geopark, preserving and passing down the region's natural history and geological evolution to future generations.
The facility features several distinct areas. The main "Dinosaur Hall," an iconic silver dome, displays a Tyrannosaurus robot, the 20m Diplodocus skeleton, and authentic Iguanodon fossils from the UK. The "Learning Hall" includes a mini-theater for educational programming. Outside, the "Interaction Plaza" features life-sized dinosaur models like the Megalosaurus, offering a different perspective on these ancient creatures. Additionally, the observation deck atop the Fureai-kan building offers a panoramic view of the Kuwajima Fossil Wall and the historic Shiramine village, showcasing the beautiful surrounding landscape.
Please note that the park is closed during the winter season (late November to mid-April) due to heavy snowfall. The best time to visit is from May to October. During spring and summer, the outdoor "Fossil Discovery Plaza" is fully operational and easy to access. While the indoor exhibits provide a calm environment for studying fossils under controlled lighting, the facility is also a great option for families looking for a reliable indoor activity regardless of the weather.
A standout feature is the fossil hunting at the "Fossil Discovery Plaza." Visitors can experience the thrill of searching for fossils in the ground, with tools such as hammers, goggles, and work gloves provided for the activity. Searching for plant fossils from 130 million years ago is a highly educational and engaging way to learn about prehistoric life. From the mini-theater to the life-sized models outside, the park emphasizes hands-on learning over passive viewing.
Nestled in the lush nature of Hakusan, the park is part of the Hakusan-Tachiki River Geopark. Visitors can enjoy the scenic landscapes shaped by geological history and take in the peaceful views of the traditional Shiramine village from the observation deck. The surrounding environment offers a wonderful atmosphere for anyone interested in field research or nature walks.
To protect the exhibits, please respect the ropes and partitions and do not touch the displays. For the fossil excavation experience, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are highly recommended. While there are vending machines and a small souvenir corner, there are no on-site restaurants, so we recommend eating a meal before your visit or bringing your own snacks. Please check the seasonal opening schedule before traveling, as the park is closed from late November to mid-April.