EVENT
Taito City
Lecture & Culture
National Museum of Nature and Science × Research Institute for Humanity and Nature Joint Special Exhibition "What Shall We Do, Humans? — Questioning Earth’s Future from the Frontlines of Research"
National Museum of Nature and Science×Research Institute for Humanity and Nature Joint Exhibition “What Shall We Do, Humans―Questioning the Future of the Earth from the Frontlines of Research”
Considering the future of the Earth and humanity through “What Shall We Do, Humans”
At the National Museum of Nature and Science, the joint exhibition with the Research Institute for Humanity and Nature, “What Shall We Do, Humans — Questioning the Future of the Earth from the Frontlines of Research,” is being held. This exhibition views global environmental issues as matters of “the relationship between people and nature” and “ways of human life,” and introduces research cases and activities that the Research Institute for Humanity and Nature has pursued to date. It is an exhibition that provides an opportunity to reconsider our relationship with the Earth.
Exhibition Highlights
POINT 01
Introduced in three chapters: “Noticing,” “Reframing,” and “Keep Questioning”
The exhibition is structured in three chapters—“Noticing,” “Reframing,” and “Keep Questioning.”
Starting from familiar aspects such as the things we use and eat in daily life and where we live, it turns our attention to the “connections between people and nature” and seeks clues to the roots of environmental issues and their solutions.
Furthermore, through initiatives of people confronting environmental problems around the world, it invites reflection on the question, “How shall we live?”
POINT 02
Four transdisciplinary research projects in the Central Hall
In the Central Hall’s “Forest of Questions,” four transdisciplinary research projects are presented, conducted with tropical rainforest hunter-gatherers; island residents of coral reefs together with artists; people in satoyama regions; and people in desertification areas alongside researchers.
It is an exhibition where you can think about the global environment while talking with researchers and writing down your own ideas.
POINT 03
A casual chance to talk with researchers: “かたろう、ニンゲン”
Within the venue, the program 「対話の縁側『かたろう、ニンゲン』」, where researchers from various fields at 地球研 stay on site during the period, is also being held.
You can casually talk with researchers about the exhibits, daily life, and the environment, and also join mini-programs.
From September 8 (Tue) to 13 (Sun), researchers will be present with the theme 「Humans and Nature Living Together: SATOYAMA」; from September 15 (Tue) to 23 (Wed, holiday), the theme will be 「How to Protect Wildlife」. Researchers will be present from 10:00–11:30 and 14:00–15:30. ※There may be times when researchers are absent or programs are canceled.
POINT 04
Related events also taking place
During the exhibition period, related events that let you enjoy the exhibits more deeply—such as talks by researchers and theater performances—are also being held.
On September 23 (Wed, holiday), in addition to the talk event 「Reframing Environmental Issues」, a closing event to wrap up the exhibition is planned.
Recommended for
Recommended for those who want to learn about the global environment and nature, who are interested in science and research, or who want to enjoy an intellectual experience in Ueno, Tokyo.
Through the exhibition, while reflecting on the connections between everyday life and the global environment, why not consider, “How should we live from now on?”
© National Museum of Nature and Science
© National Museum of Nature and Science
- ※The contents of exhibits and events are subject to change.
- ※Some related events require advance registration and are decided by lottery.
- ※For 「かたろう、ニンゲン」, researchers may be absent or programs may be canceled.
- ※Please check the official website for the latest information.
| Period | 2026.07.31–09.23 |
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| Time | Opening hours 9:00–17:00 ※ From August 9 (Sun) to August 15 (Sat) open until 18:00 ※ Last admission is 30 minutes before closing Closed days September 7 (Mon), September 14 (Mon) |
| Location | National Museum of Nature and Science (Tokyo, Ueno Park) Japan Gallery, 1st floor, Special Exhibition Room, Central Hall |
| Address | 〒110-8718 東京都台東区上野公園7-20 |
| Participation Fee |
General and university students: 630 yen (group: 510 yen) ※Available with permanent exhibition admission only ※Groups of 20 or more ※Free for high school students and younger, and those aged 65 or over |
| Contact | National Museum of Nature and Science, Research Institute for Humanity and Nature |
|---|---|
| Related Website | https://www.kahaku.go.jp/tenji-event/nid00003904.html |