KamiokaLab is a fascinating space science museum situated in the charming town of Kamioka in Gifu Prefecture. In fact, the town of Kamioka is dedicated to the major research of the universe and elementary particles, in particular the enigmatic "neutrino." KamiokaLab is a center introducing the wonders of space science and is full of interactive activities for both children and adults.
With a huge video installation (available in Japanese and English) explaining the mysteries of the neutrino and its importance to scientific research it's a fascinating method of introducing some complex theories to the public. There are also members of staff who can explain and answer any questions you may have in English.
The museum even includes a scaled down replica of the legendary "Super-Kamiokande" which is the largest underground neutrino detector in the world. Hosted by the Institute for Cosmic Ray Research which is part of the University of Tokyo. It's dedicated, ostensibly, to the nature of neutrinos and attempts to reveal the history of the Universe by using neutrinos.
The museum includes some interesting quirks such as quizzes, pinball-like games and other fun and exciting activities which make the process of understanding the basics about neutrinos a little bit easier. It's a fascinating complex and one deserving of a day trip while in the Hida and Kamioka area.
The work which is conducted in Kamioka, principally by Dr. Takaaki Kajita (who serves as president of the Science Council of Japan) earned him the 2015 Nobel Prize for Physics and firmly put Kamioka on the world stage as a major player in space science research. Hida Space Science Museum KamiokaLab is a curious and interesting spot which will amuse children and pique the interests of adults who didn't previously have an interest in science.
Hida Space Science Museum KamiokaLab is a museum in central Kamioka town that introduces visitors to the science of neutrinos and the research activity hosted at the separate Super-K...
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