Guida
The Ship of Science Museum is a maritime museum centered around the themes of sea and ship culture. The centerpiece of the museum is the 'Soya', the first Antarctic research ship. This facility allows visitors to gain knowledge about the ocean, ships, and marine life. The most distinctive feature of this museum is the rare opportunity to observe a historical vessel that was once used for Antarctic exploration from a very close proximity.
The facility is operated by a foundation dedicated to the promotion of maritime science. The 'Soya' on display played a pivotal role in the history of Japanese Antarctic research. Through the exhibition of the ship's structure and the evolution of maritime technology, the museum serves as an important resource for understanding the progression of Japan's maritime culture and the history of seafaring technology.
The absolute highlight is the interior tour of the first Antarctic research ship, 'Soya'. You can explore the internal structure of the vessel and see the actual equipment used during Antarctic-related activities in the past. Additionally, through various exhibits related to the sea and ships, visitors can learn the fundamentals of marine science and the technical aspects of how vessels navigate the vast oceans.
The museum is open year-round; however, please note that boarding the 'Soya' or certain public displays may be canceled during bad weather, such as typhoons or strong winds, to ensure safety. We recommend planning your visit on days with stable weather. While the museum remains open until 17:00, the last boarding time for the 'Soya' is 16:30, so it is crucial to manage your schedule with plenty of time to spare.
You can experience the reality of maritime exploration by walking through the actual interior of a historical ship. Navigating the narrow passages and steep stairs characteristic of such vessels provides a visceral sense of the history of ocean exploration. Information regarding marine science-related events and hands-on workshops is also periodically released through the official website.
The museum is located in the Aomi area of Koto City, Tokyo. The surrounding area is home to large-scale exhibition facilities like Tokyo Big Sight and various tourist attractions in the Odaiba area. You can enjoy your visit while taking in the beautiful scenery of Tokyo Bay.
When touring the interior of the ship, please avoid wearing footwear with metal soles or anything that might scratch the floors to protect the vessel. On rainy days, floors and stairs can become slippery, so comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Eating, drinking, or conducting any commercial business inside the ship is strictly prohibited. Additionally, pets or animals are not allowed on board. Photography is permitted for personal use only.