National Museum of Nature and Science
The National Museum of Nature and Science will hold the special exhibition "Quantum Century" from Tuesday, October 21st to Sunday, November 30th, 2025 (Reiwa 7), as detailed below.
[Detailed URL: https://www.kahaku.go.jp/event/2025/10quantumcentury/ ]
About 100 years ago, a theory developed by physicists brought about a major revolution in human knowledge of nature.
The name of this theory is "quantum mechanics." It is the foundation of modern science, and through its applications, it is the driving force behind changes in our lives and society.
The year 2025 will be the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IQY), marking the first century of quantum mechanics. This exhibition will introduce the essence of quantum mechanics theory and portray the progress of this theory as the challenge taken on by scientists fascinated by the mysterious mechanisms of the natural world.
The museum will exhibit a portrait of Einstein with a handwritten message, newly acquired and on display for the first time, as well as letters from Heisenberg, Dirac, and others, as well as valuable materials on scientists involved in the development of quantum physics (some of which are reproductions).The museum will also feature hands-on exhibits on physical phenomena that allow visitors to learn about concepts of quantum mechanics, such as "Schrödinger's cat" and "quantum entanglement," through hands-on experience.
Event Overview
Special Exhibition "Quantum Century"
[Venue] National Museum of Nature and Science (Ueno Park, Tokyo), 2nd floor of the Global Gallery, permanent exhibition room
[Holding period] October 21st (Tuesday) to November 30th (Sunday), 2025 (Reiwa 7)
[Opening hours] 9:00-17:00 *Entry is until 30 minutes before closing time
[Closed] Mondays, and Tuesdays if Monday is a public holiday
[Admission fee] Adults and university students: 630 yen (510 yen for groups), high school students and younger and those 65 and older: Free
*This exhibition can be viewed with the admission fee for the permanent exhibition only. *Groups of 20 or more people
*For details on how to enter the museum, please see our website.
https://www.kahaku.go.jp/
[Sponsor] National Museum of Nature and Science
[Co-sponsored by] Physical Society of Japan
Exhibition Introduction
Part I The birth of quantum mechanics
Quantum mechanics did not suddenly emerge in its entirety 100 years ago. Key ideas were gradually developed from around the turn of the 19th to the 20th century. However, the momentum in the mid-1920s was incredible, and the basic framework of the theory was discovered within just two years from 1925. However, this was only the beginning of an investigation into the mysterious "mysteries" of the natural world.
Part II The Challenge of Quantum Mechanics
Quantum mechanics has provided an extremely accurate explanation for phenomena at various levels in the natural world. Technologies that apply this knowledge are the foundation of our society. While the mysterious properties of the natural world revealed by the theory are being explored, efforts to actively utilize it to create unprecedented technologies are attracting attention. The story of quantum mechanics may have only just begun.
Exhibition highlights
PICK UP 1
Tracing the history of quantum physics through valuable documents from scientists
PICK UP2
Experience the wonders of quantum physics through physical phenomena and hands-on exhibits
PICK UP3
Learn about the cutting edge of quantum technology through real materials
Exhibition curator
Department of Science, Physics and Chemistry Group
Researcher Hiroto Kono
I specialize in the history of science, particularly the history of modern and contemporary physical science. I am particularly interested in the history of physics in Japan since the Meiji period, and my research focuses on the dynamism of academic formation through the analysis of academic theories and international comparisons. In recent years, I have been investigating the formation process of condensed matter physics in Japan.
[Agency for Cultural Affairs] Press Release
See other exhibition information
