323rd Observation Session: "Performing Morning Glories"

Event Overview

The 323rd Observation Session, "Performing Morning Glories," is a special observation event held at the "Living Plant Garden" of the National Museum of Japanese History. While morning glories have long been loved, the Edo period (specifically the Bunsei or Kaea/Ansei eras) saw the creation of many "variegated morning glories" with unique flower and leaf shapes that defied traditional images. This event focuses on these historical varieties and botanical achievements.

The theme is "The Mysterious Morning Glories of Haru Uga." The event features panel displays introducing the work of breeder and geneticist Haru Uga, alongside actual morning glories grown in pots displayed in the greenhouse, gazebo, and Yoshizu exhibition areas, allowing visitors to observe their diverse forms up close.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main highlight is the opportunity to directly observe the diverse forms of "varigated morning glories" passed down from the Edo period to the present. You can learn about these unique plant shapes alongside their historical context. Through the panel displays, you can also understand the process and historical background of how plant breeding has evolved.

The exhibition areas, including the greenhouse, gazebo, and Yoshizu area, provide a natural environment to learn how plants have changed their forms over time. It is a precious experience to feel the depth of the morning glory from both botanical and historical perspectives.

Schedule

The event is scheduled as follows:

• Date: Saturday, August 22, 2026
• Time: 13:30 – 15:30

Venue & Access

The venue is the "Living Plant Garden" located within the National Museum of Japanese History. Exhibits are spread across the greenhouse, gazebo, and Yoshizu exhibition areas.

Access is available via public transportation or car to the National Museum of Japanese History. We recommend checking the museum's official website for detailed directions.

Participation Tips

This is an observation-based event to learn about plant morphology and history. Beyond just looking at plants, you can gain a deeper understanding by studying the history of breeding through the panel displays. We recommend focusing on the historical context of how the Edo-period morning glory craze led to such plant diversity.

Things to Bring, Clothing & Etiquette

As you will be moving through an outdoor plant garden, greenhouse, and gazebo, please note the following:

• Payment: Please follow the museum's regulations regarding the participation fee (100 JPY per person). We recommend preparing cash.
• English Support: English support for panels and explanations may be limited; please check the official website for details.
• Reservations: Please check the official website for the latest information regarding whether reservations are required.
• Clothing: Since you will be moving around the plant garden, we recommend comfortable clothing and heatstroke prevention (hats, water, etc.).
• Etiquette: To protect the plants and exhibits, do not touch or remove any plants. Please be considerate of other visitors.