Nagoya City Museum - Image 1
1 / 10

Nagoya City Museum

4
·3k reviews·Nagoya, Japan

Explore the cosmos in the world's largest planetarium and marvel at modernist architecture and diverse art collections.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, easier planetarium booking

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Nagoya City Museum - Image 1

Nagoya City Museum

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, easier planetarium booking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the cosmos in the world's largest planetarium and marvel at modernist architecture and diverse art collections.

4
(3k reviews)

"A must-visit for its world's largest planetarium and impressive art collections!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Planetarium ASAP

Head straight to the planetarium ticket counter upon arrival to secure your spot for shows.

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing to explore the vast exhibits.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

World's Largest Planetarium

World's Largest Planetarium

Planetarium Dome

Experience the cosmos in the world's largest planetarium dome for an awe-inspiring celestial show.

Instagram+1
Modernist Architecture

Modernist Architecture

Exterior and Interior

Admire the striking modernist architecture of the building, a notable work by Kisho Kurokawa.

InstagramReddit
Diverse Art Collections

Diverse Art Collections

Art Galleries

Explore a range of art, from famous masters in the permanent collection to captivating temporary exhibitions.

Reddit
Interactive Science Exhibits

Interactive Science Exhibits

Science Exhibition Halls

Engage with hands-on displays covering technology, life sciences, and general science for all ages.

Instagram+1
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Planetarium Shows Early

The Nagoya City Science Museum boasts the world's largest planetarium. Shows are popular and can sell out, especially on weekends. Book your tickets for the planetarium as soon as you arrive to avoid disappointment. Instagram+1

Art Exhibits & Entry Fees

The museum has both permanent and temporary art exhibitions. While the permanent collection is affordable, special temporary exhibits have a higher ticket price. Check which exhibits are on during your visit to plan your budget. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier planetarium booking
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (Mon-Fri)
Why
School groups may have left
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends (early)
Why
Catch popular planetarium shows
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Nagoya City, Naka Ward, Sakae 3-35-43 Ça coûte 1200 yen (7€50) #japon #Vlog #katana
@otoontv
22.9K likes • 145.1K views

🎯 Book Planetarium ASAP

Head straight to the planetarium ticket counter upon arrival to secure your spot for shows. Instagram+1

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing to explore the vast exhibits. TikTok

Things to do in Nagoya !! Whats your favorite thing to do here?! #thingstodojapan #japantraveltips #nagoyavlog #nagoya_trip #nagoyajapan🇯🇵 #nagoyajapan #名古屋 #nagoyatravel #nagoyajapan🇯🇵 #nagoyajapan🙏♥️🥰🇳🇵🇯🇵
@jettojapan
5.9K likes • 271.3K views
Alla scoperta del Nagoya City Science Museum 🔬 Un’esperienza incredibile tra scienza e tecnologia! Questo museo ospita il planetario più grande al mondo 🌌, esposizioni interattive, e affascinanti dimostrazioni scientifiche per tutte le età. Perfetto per chi ama esplorare l’universo e scoprire i segreti della scienza! ✨ Sei mai stato qui? Raccontami la tua esperienza nei commenti! ⬇️” ~~~ 🔭 Dis...
stefano_cicchini
8.4K likes • 42.6K views

📱 Check Exhibit Schedules

Temporary art exhibitions can be a highlight, but check their availability and cost. Reddit

💰 Affordable Permanent Art

The permanent art collection is very reasonably priced, offering great value. Reddit

Nagoya City Science Museum. . Japan. . . Credit: @maswick_66 @hoshikodaneza @nirvanz_prd24 . . Cover: @renataselmiherrmann . . . . . #brutalism #architecture #brutalist #brutalistarchitecture #concrete #construction #architecturephotography #modernism #brutgroup #architectural #civilengineering #archilovers #architecturelovers #brutopolis #design #minimal #archdaily #socialistmodernism #brutalismu...
brutbuilds
7.9K likes • 363.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Planetarium ASAP

Head straight to the planetarium ticket counter upon arrival to secure your spot for shows. Instagram+1

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing to explore the vast exhibits. TikTok

📱 Check Exhibit Schedules

Temporary art exhibitions can be a highlight, but check their availability and cost. Reddit

💰 Affordable Permanent Art

The permanent art collection is very reasonably priced, offering great value. Reddit

🚫 No Photos in Art Galleries

Remember that photography is generally not allowed in the art exhibition areas. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Nagoya City Science Museum for its impressive modernist architecture and the awe-inspiring, world's largest planetarium. The art collections, both permanent and temporary, are highly regarded for their quality and value, though photography is restricted in art galleries. Some find the science exhibits engaging, while others note limited food options on-site.

"Came here to see the architecture (Kisho Kurokawa) of this modernist building. The art exhibits are quite amazing too. There are 2 ticket prices, one for regular entry and one if you want to see the special exhibit."

Michael Chan

"It had a nice permanent exhibition. Included are Modigliani, Chagall, Diego Rivera and so on, those who are even famous to the public. It was old building but it was maintained so cleanly. I couldn’t find one single hair in the restroom."

Little L

"Interesting contemporary art masterpiece, from Mexico, Via Japan, to Europe. And considering that the permanent exhibition is only 300 yen… (2500 if you go to the temporary too) is reallg worth the price"

Giulio Toscani

What People Like

World's largest planetarium
Modernist architecture
Quality art collections

What People Dislike

Photography restrictions in art galleries
Limited food options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Nagoya City Science Museum is easily accessible via public transport. Take the subway to Fushimi Station (Higashiyama and Tsurumai lines), and it's a short walk from there. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there is paid parking available at the museum. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on busy days. Public transport is often recommended. TikTok

Fushimi Station is the most convenient, offering direct access to the museum via a short walk. Instagram

While the museum itself is a prominent landmark, some visitors have noted that specific addresses can be tricky to find on navigation apps, especially if relying on Japanese addresses. TikTok

Yes, you can take the subway from Nagoya Station to Fushimi Station, which is a direct and quick connection. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission for adults is around ¥800. High school students and university students pay ¥400, and children up to junior high school students are free. Special exhibitions may have additional fees. Instagram

It's highly recommended to book planetarium tickets as soon as you arrive at the museum, as they can sell out quickly. Instagram+1

Yes, if you have a 'donichikippu' (weekend/holiday pass), you can get a discount of ¥80 on your ticket price. Instagram

The museum is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's always best to check the official website for the most current hours and any special closures. TikTok

While the planetarium has its own showtimes and seating, it's usually part of the general admission or requires a separate booking upon entry. Check at the ticket counter for current package options. Instagram

🎫 🔬 Onsite Experience

The museum features the world's largest planetarium, interactive science exhibits on technology, life sciences, and general science, and art galleries with permanent and temporary collections. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! It's a fantastic educational and fun experience for children, with many interactive exhibits designed to engage young minds. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed in the science exhibition areas and for the building's architecture. However, it is typically prohibited in the art galleries. Reddit

To fully enjoy the science exhibits and potentially catch a planetarium show, plan for at least 3-4 hours. If you're also interested in the art, allocate more time. TikTok

The building is a notable example of modernist architecture, designed by Kisho Kurokawa, and is an attraction in itself. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself does not have extensive dining facilities. It's recommended to bring your own food or purchase it nearby. Instagram

Muslim-friendly onigiri can be found after exiting Fushimi Station. It's advisable to bring your own halal food as options within the museum are limited. Instagram

While there might be designated areas, it's generally best to consume outside food in areas away from the main exhibits. Check with staff for specific guidelines. Instagram

Fushimi Station and the surrounding Sakae area offer a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries catering to different tastes and budgets. TikTok

Information on an on-site cafe is limited, but it's safer to assume options are minimal and plan accordingly. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted in the science exhibition halls and for the building's architecture. However, it is strictly prohibited in the art galleries. Reddit

The exterior of the modernist building, the vast planetarium dome from the outside, and the interactive science displays offer great photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Drone photography is not permitted inside or around the museum premises. Always adhere to local regulations regarding drone usage. TikTok

The main restriction is within the art exhibition areas. Always look for signage indicating photography rules. Reddit

Late afternoon or early morning can offer softer light for capturing the building's modernist lines. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Nagoya City Science Museum is an excellent choice for families. Children under junior high school age get in for free, making it an affordable outing. Instagram The museum's interactive science exhibits are designed to be engaging and educational, allowing kids to learn through play. Instagram The world's largest planetarium offers a magical experience that will captivate young imaginations. Instagram+1

Tips for families:
* Arrive early to secure planetarium tickets, as they are popular with all age groups. Instagram
* Bring snacks and drinks, as on-site food options are limited. Instagram
* Allow ample time for exploration; kids will want to spend time at each interactive display. TikTok

🎨 Art Lovers on a Budget

For art enthusiasts who are mindful of their budget, the Nagoya City Science Museum offers a fantastic opportunity. The permanent art collection is surprisingly robust, featuring works by well-known artists, and is accessible for a very low fee. Reddit This makes it an ideal way to experience significant art without breaking the bank.

While temporary exhibitions have a higher cost, the value of the permanent collection alone makes a visit worthwhile. Reddit Combine this with the striking modernist architecture of the building itself, and you have a culturally rich experience that is both affordable and visually stimulating. InstagramReddit

🤓 Science & Tech Enthusiasts

This museum is a paradise for anyone fascinated by science and technology. The interactive exhibits cover a broad spectrum, from the intricacies of modern technology to the wonders of life sciences and general scientific principles. Instagram+1 You can expect to spend hours engaging with hands-on displays that make complex concepts accessible and fun. The planetarium, being the world's largest, is an absolute must-see for anyone interested in astronomy and space exploration. Instagram

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the different halls dedicated to various scientific disciplines. The museum provides a comprehensive and engaging overview of scientific advancements and natural phenomena, making it a highly rewarding visit for curious minds. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Marvel of the Planetarium

The Nagoya City Science Museum is home to the world's largest planetarium, a truly breathtaking experience. Visitors rave about the immersive shows that transport you through the cosmos. Instagram+1 It's crucial to book your planetarium tickets immediately upon arrival, as popular showtimes, especially for the most visually stunning presentations, can sell out quickly. Instagram Plan your visit around the show schedule to make the most of this unique attraction.

Beyond the sheer size, the planetarium offers high-quality projections and engaging content suitable for all ages. It's a highlight that many visitors specifically come to see, making it a must-do when visiting the museum. Instagram

Remember that the planetarium is a separate booking or part of a specific ticket package, so inquire at the ticket counter about the best way to secure your entry to a show. Instagram

Artistic Exploration: From Masters to Modern

The Nagoya City Science Museum isn't just about science; it also houses impressive art collections. The permanent exhibition features works by renowned artists like Modigliani and Chagall, offering a surprisingly high-caliber display for its modest entry fee. Reddit Visitors often express pleasant surprise at the quality and preservation of these classic pieces, noting how well-maintained the older sections of the museum are. Reddit

In addition to the permanent collection, the museum frequently hosts temporary art exhibitions. These can range from contemporary local artists to international retrospectives, offering diverse and often thought-provoking displays. TikTokReddit While these special exhibits come with a higher ticket price, many visitors find them to be fantastic and well worth the cost, especially if they align with personal interests. Reddit Be aware that photography is typically not permitted in any of the art galleries, so be prepared to experience the art with your own eyes. Reddit

Architectural Significance

The Nagoya City Science Museum is a significant example of modernist architecture, designed by the acclaimed architect Kisho Kurokawa. InstagramReddit Its distinctive design is a draw for architecture enthusiasts, with clean lines and a bold aesthetic that stands out. Instagram The building itself is often cited as a reason to visit, even before exploring the exhibits within.

Visitors often comment on the building's impressive presence and how well it has been maintained over the years. Reddit The interplay of concrete and form creates a visually striking structure that is a pleasure to photograph from various angles. Instagram It’s a testament to Kurokawa's vision and adds another layer of appreciation to the museum experience.

You may also like