Panduan
The Uozu Buried Forest Museum is a science museum located in Uozu City, Toyama Prefecture, dedicated to natural sciences. Its most significant feature is the exhibition of the 'Uozu Buried Forest,' designated as a Special Natural Monument of Japan. This facility offers a rare opportunity to observe the remains of a cedar-dominated forest that was buried by sediment approximately 2,000 years ago, preserved through a specialized water tank display. Beyond the forest, visitors can learn about the unique natural phenomena of the Toyama Bay area, such as mirages, geoparks, and the water cycle.
The history of this museum began in 1930 (Showa 5) when a large number of tree roots were discovered during dredging work at Uozu Port. These roots were designated as a Special Natural Monument in 1936. In 1954, the 'Buried Forest Natural Preservation Hall' opened, becoming the first registered museum for natural sciences 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 was formed when a flood from the Katakai River buried a cedar forest 2,000 years ago, followed by rising sea levels that shaped its current state.
The museum layout flows from the entrance hall to various specialized exhibition corners. The most iconic 'Buried Forest Corner' allows you to observe the ancient cedar roots preserved within water tanks. The 'Mirage Corner' introduces the atmospheric phenomena often seen in Toyama Bay, while the 'Geopark' and 'Water Cycle' corners explain the formation of the Earth and the movement of water. Additionally, the facility includes 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.
The museum is open year-round, but the topics of natural phenomena may change with the seasons. For instance, you can learn about the specific times when mirages are most likely to occur around Toyama Bay. Since the last entry is at 16:30, we recommend visiting in the early afternoon to ensure you have enough time. Visiting during spring or summer allows you to enjoy the museum alongside the vibrant natural environment of the surrounding area.
Inside the museum, visitors can engage with high-definition video displays and educational environments focused on natural sciences. These exhibits help clarify the mechanisms behind environmental changes and phenomena like mirages. After your tour, you can relax at the on-site cafe, 'KININAL' (please note that cafe operating hours may vary by season).
The area surrounding the museum is rich in the natural beauty of Toyama Bay. You can enjoy strolls through landscapes shaped by geological processes related to the geopark. Nearby, facilities like 'Umi no Eki Shinkiro' (Sea Station Mirage) offer opportunities to enjoy local food and regional natural scenery.
To protect the exhibits and ensure safety, please follow museum etiquette. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for easy movement throughout the facility. Since some areas contain water tanks and delicate scientific equipment, please be mindful of your surroundings.