Tochigi Prefectural Nikko Natural Science Museum

Located right by Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji, the Tochigi Prefectural Nikko Natural Science Museum serves as a gateway to discovering the wonders of Oku-Nikko. Inside, visitors can explore detailed exhibits on the region’s rich natural environment and its history, which dates back to the Nara period, through panels and dynamic video displays.
A major renovation completed in March 2023 transformed both the natural and cultural exhibition halls. With the use of cutting-edge digital technology, visitors can now experience large-screen visuals that vividly showcase the flow of water shaping Oku-Nikko’s landscapes, the beauty of its wetlands, and the life of its wildlife.

As a local information hub, the museum also provides up-to-date details on nature and sightseeing, hiking trail guidance, and hosts events that let visitors immerse themselves in Oku-Nikko’s environment.

Its hands-on nature programs are especially popular, offering seasonal activities such as flower and bird watching in spring, mountain climbing and waterfall exploration in summer, guided walks through autumn foliage and historical sites, and snowshoe trekking or snow play in winter-allowing people to enjoy and learn from Oku-Nikko’s nature year-round.