Search & Discover
In the Search & Discover zone, visitors can study museum specimens, such as animals, plants, rocks and historical artefacts, using microscopes and equipment. This area is designed for adults and older children to discover the natural surroundings.
What can you discover today?
Open from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Insects
Specimens mounted in cases can be observed with the microscope. Choose which species you wish to study from the draws.
Birds
Bird specimens and books for identification are available. Many of the species can be seen around the museum and Lake Biwa.
Plants
Plants of the local area, and their uses, are displayed here.
Sketch Table
The best way to really study a specimen is to draw it. Feel free to use the paper and pencils to create your masterful scientific illustration.
Cultural Artifacts
Take a close look at how cultural artefacts, such as shrimp traps, are made.
Rocks, Minerals and fossils
In the draws are rocks, minerals and fossils from the local area. Dig out a specimen that interests you and take a close look at it with the microscope.
Mammals
A wide variety of mammals are found in the surrounding areas.
Reptiles and Amphibians
Specimens of turtles, snakes, salamanders, frogs and toads are available. Some are native, others invasive, like this snapping turtle.
360 Degrees Tour
Take a 360 degrees tour of the Search and Discover Room. By using your mouse, or tilting your phone, you can view the room at any angle.