Museum of Maritime Science

What this place is

The Museum of Maritime Science (船の科学館, Fune-no-kagakukan) was a marine science museum located in Higashiyashio, Shinagawa, Tokyo on Odaiba island, Japan.In 2011 the museum announced to cease the most parts of its operation for renovation, while keeping some functions active, including exhibit of Sōya, scientific research and educational programs.Instead of renovation plan update, they decided to dismantle the museum's buildings, which is planned from April 2024 to October 2025 reportedly.Until its closure, exhibits included Japanese boats, items related to the navy, shipping industry, fishing, sailing, maritime recreation, ship design and building, and the environment of the seas and oceans around Japan.The museum building itself is modelled after the British ocean liner Queen Elizabeth 2.The building served for main exhibit until its closure in September, 2011.

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Why it is worth the trip

Permanent galleries covering local history, industry and daily life in one clear sequence.

Original artefacts and reconstructions you can get close to, with English panels in most major rooms.

Rotating special exhibitions, so repeat visits rarely show the same thing twice.

What you can do here

Follow the permanent exhibition route first — it is usually built as a chronological story.

Borrow the audio guide or scan the QR panels for English, Korean or Chinese commentary.

Try the hands-on corner: crafts, replicas and workshops aimed at all ages.

Finish at the museum shop, which is often the best place in town for local-made souvenirs.

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