Meguro Parasitological Museum

Overview & Appeal

The Meguro Parasitological Museum is a rare research facility specializing in parasitology, located in Meguro, Tokyo. The exhibition spaces, spanning the first and second floors, house approximately 300 liquid-preserved specimens and related materials collected from both Japan and abroad. This facility allows visitors to study the diversity of parasites from a medical perspective, providing a profound intellectual stimulus to visitors from all over the world.

History & Cultural Background

Founded in 1953 by Dr. Ryo Kameya, the museum preserves materials that tell the story of medical and hygiene education. For example, the exquisite wax models once used in medical training serve as important historical documents in the history of medicine and culture. Today, the museum also focuses on the digitalization of its materials and promoting cultural tourism through collaboration with local communities and other institutions.

Main Highlights

The exhibition is divided into two main floors:

Here, you can learn about the diverse forms and ecologies of various parasites adapted to different environments through liquid-preserved specimens.

This floor focuses on parasites that affect human beings. A particularly notable feature is the collection of enlarged wax models, believed to have been crafted by Jinichi Numata. These models are precious historical artifacts that supported medical education and were created following technical mastery in Germany. Currently, efforts are underway to digitize these works, including the release of 3D models.

Seasonal & Time-of-Day Recommendations

The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. While the permanent exhibits do not change seasonally, special exhibitions are sometimes held, such as those themed around marine biology. An average visit takes about 30 to 40 minutes, making it an efficient stop during an afternoon of sightseeing. Since the final exit is at 5:00 PM, it is recommended to arrive with plenty of time to spare.

Experience & Activities

Visitors can engage deeply with the specialized field of parasitology through quiet observation. The museum also sells official guidebooks (available in Japanese and English) and the periodic publication "Mushi-mushi Demo-hara-no-mushi Tsushin." These are excellent resources for those wishing to deepen their knowledge of the exhibits and parasitology. We highly recommend these publications for those with academic interests.

Surrounding Area

The museum is situated in Shimomeguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo. The surrounding area has a calm and sophisticated atmosphere with good access via public transportation. After your museum visit, you can enjoy a relaxing stroll through the neighborhood.

Essentials & Etiquette

Please observe the following rules for a comfortable visit:

• *Payment**: Admission is free, but cash may be required for purchases at the museum shop.
• *Language Support**: English guidebooks are available for international visitors.
• *Reservations**: No prior reservation is needed for individuals, but groups of 6 or more must contact the museum in advance.
• *Photography**: Photography and video recording are permitted for personal use only. However, the use of tripods and live streaming is prohibited. Commercial use of images is strictly forbidden.
• *Food & Drink**: Eating and drinking (including candy and gum) are prohibited. Please do not touch the exhibits.
• *Accessibility**: The facility is equipped with wheelchair lifts, loaner wheelchairs, a stroller, and wheelchair-accessible toilets. Service animals (guide dogs, etc.) are welcome.
• *Manners**: Please maintain a quiet atmosphere. Please keep phone calls outside the museum. Pets (except service animals) are not allowed.