Guide
The Uozu Buried Forest Museum, located in Uozu City, Toyama Prefecture, is a specialized institution dedicated to natural science. The museum's most significant feature is the display of the 'Uozu Buried Forest,' a designated Special Natural Monument of Japan. This rare facility allows visitors to observe the remains of a Japanese cedar (Sugi) forest that was buried by sediment approximately 2,000 years ago, preserved through a specialized water-tank display system. Beyond the forest, visitors can learn about the unique natural phenomena of Toyama Bay, such as mirages, geoparks, and the water cycle.
The history of this museum began in 1930 (Showa 5) when a massive amount of tree roots was unearthed during dredging work at Uozu Port. These remains were designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan in 1936. The facility originally opened as the 'Buried Forest Natural Preservation Hall' in 1954, becoming the first registered museum for natural science in the prefecture. The current museum structure was completed in 1992, featuring an entrance hall connected to various exhibition halls via underground passages. The buried forest itself was formed when sediment from a flood of the Katakai River buried the cedar forest roughly 2,000 years ago, followed by rising sea levels that shaped its current state.
The museum layout leads from the entrance hall to several specialized exhibition corners. The most iconic 'Buried Forest Corner' allows you to observe the preserved cedar roots and trunks through water tanks. The 'Mirage Corner' introduces the atmospheric phenomena often seen over Toyama Bay, while the 'Geopark' and 'Water Cycle' corners provide insights into the Earth's formation and the movement of water. Additionally, the facility features a high-definition video hall, a dome-shaped exhibition space, and a dry exhibition hall, all designed to provide a visual and immersive understanding of natural phenomena.
While the museum is open year-round, the topics of natural phenomena change with the seasons. For instance, you can learn about the specific times when mirages are most likely to occur in Toyama Bay. Since the last admission is at 16:30, we recommend visiting in the early afternoon to ensure you have plenty of time to explore. Visiting during the spring or summer seasons allows you to enjoy the museum alongside the vibrant natural environment of the surrounding area.
The museum offers an environment rich with learning, including high-definition video displays that help visitors understand the mechanisms behind natural phenomena like mirages. For a relaxing break, the onsite cafe 'KININAL' is available for visitors to enjoy after their tour (please note that cafe operating hours may vary by season).
The museum is surrounded by landscapes that showcase the natural beauty of Toyama Bay. Visitors can enjoy walks through coastal scenery and explore geological formations related to the geopark. Nearby facilities, such as 'Umi-no-Eki Shinkiro,' also offer opportunities to enjoy local nature and regional food.
To protect the delicate exhibits and ensure safety, please follow museum etiquette. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes for easy movement throughout the facility. As some areas contain water tanks and precision equipment, please be mindful of your surroundings.