323rd Observation Event: 'The Performing Morning Glory'

Event Overview

The 323rd Observation Event, "The Performing Morning Glory," is a special botanical event held at the "Living Plant Garden" of the National Museum of Japanese History. While morning glories have long been beloved, the Edo period (specifically the Bunsei and Kaei/Ansei eras) saw the emergence of many "variegated varieties" with unique flower and leaf shapes that defied traditional images. This event focuses on these historically significant varieties and their 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 and his research. Additionally, visitors can observe actual potted morning glories in their diverse forms at the greenhouse, gazebo, and Yoshizu exhibition areas.

Highlights

The main highlight is the opportunity to directly observe the diverse forms of "variegated morning glories" that have been passed down from the Edo period to the present day. You can learn about the historical context of these unique plant shapes through the panel displays.

The exhibition takes place in a natural setting, including greenhouses and gazebos, allowing you to learn about plant morphology and history through direct observation. 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: August 22, 2026 (Saturday)
• Time: 13:30 – 15:30

Venue and Access

The venue is the "Living Plant Garden" located within the grounds of the National Museum of Japanese History. Displays 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 event designed to teach plant morphology and historical background. Beyond just looking at plants, you can gain a deeper understanding by studying the history of plant breeding through the panel displays. We recommend focusing on how the intense morning glory craze of the Edo period led to such diverse plant varieties.

What to Bring, Clothing, and Etiquette

Please note the following as you will be moving through outdoor gardens, greenhouses, and gazebos:

• Payment: Please follow the museum's regulations for the participation fee (100 JPY per person). We recommend preparing cash.
• English Support: As English support for panels and explanations may be limited, please check the official website in advance.
• Reservations: As the source does not specify if reservations are required, please check the official website for the latest information.
• Clothing: Since you will be moving through the plant garden, we recommend comfortable clothing and heatstroke prevention (such as a hat and water).
• Etiquette: To protect the plants and exhibits, touching or removing any plants is strictly prohibited. Please be considerate of other visitors.