Children's Museum

The word "museum" often sounds a little off-putting for children, but the Hiroshima Children's Museum (kodomo bunka senta), located behind the baseball stadium, next to the family pool, is so far removed from the 'exhibits in glass boxes' image you and your children will think you've entered an adventure playgound. Amazingly, entry and use of all facilities is completely free - there are even free lockers available making it easy to drop in after a day shopping or escape the heat of the family pool for a while in summer.
There is a lot for of all ages to enjoy

A brief tour:
The 1st floor opens into the Science Adventure Gymnasium, a maze of tunnels, cages and passages for children to crawl through, with obstacles and scientific displays throughout. The Science Fantasy Land offers interactive magnetic and light displays and a dazzling "Travelling Ball" machine among many others.

The 2nd floor takes you to Dr.Scitech's Laboratory, which "teaches" children about technology used in our daily lives such as the workings of microwaves, cameras and TV. The central display is a model train and tram set which kids can drive. Other wonders include an earthquake generating device, seeing pictures you draw in the air, and a really fun virtual interaction game where you can do your best to block soccer balls or stay away from the sharks!

The 3rd floor is a lot quieter and geared towards older kids. Study the movements of the moon and stars constellations and observe sunspots through the Solar Telescope. You can also find a craftroom for all ages and a science laboratory here where children can make radios and wooden puzzles etc.

The reception has free leaflets about each floor in Japanese or English, including a map and explanation of each exhibit. Also, brief explanations are given next to each display in Japanese, English and Korean- the staff are also on hand to explain.

There is no car parking available but the facility is within easy reach from any point in the city centre. It is a 5 minute walk from the nearest tram stop, Gen Baku Domu Mae, infront of the Atomic-Bomb Dome.

Lorna C./updated JJW 6_05

"For a rainy afternoon, this place is great and all the better because it's free"
Fiona MacDonald - Sun Feb 2006
Came here with a 9 year old boy who didn't need to see me again for 2 hours... Loads of well thought out activities that are not only great fun but also get them thinking about how things work. My normally shy son hooked up with Japanese kids on a number of the activities so that they could make things work better with more of them. Now that's what I call real education..