Museum of Maritime Science

The Museum of Maritime Science is a maritime museum in Higashi-Yashio, a district of Tokyo, presenting ship models and information about seafaring and marine science. The museum offers indoor and outdoor areas with exhibits on cargo technology, vessel construction, and underwater research.

The institution opened on July 20, 1974, in a building designed to recall the British ocean liner Queen Elizabeth 2. The research vessel Soya, which carried out Japan's first Antarctic expedition in 1956, was later placed permanently beside the museum.

The exhibitions show Japan's connection to the sea through fishing boats, cargo vessels, and modern naval innovations. Visitors can explore recreated cabins and workshops that represent daily life at sea.

The site is near Tokyo International Cruise Terminal Station and opens weekdays from 10 to 17 hours, weekends until 18 hours. Visitors can board the vessel Soya but should expect steep stairs and narrow passages.

The research vessel Soya sits permanently at the dock and can be toured inside, including crew quarters and the navigation bridge. The main building itself resembles a large passenger ship in shape, complete with bow and stern.

Location: Higashi-Yashio

Inception: July 20, 1974

Architects: 三橋設計

Official opening: July 20, 1974

Operator: 公益財団法人日本海事科学振興財団

Address: 東京都品川区東八潮3-1

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 10:00-17:00; Saturday-Sunday 10:00-18:00

Website: https://funenokagakukan.or.jp

GPS coordinates: 35.62022,139.77230

Latest update: December 14, 2025 19:31