National Museum of Natural Science
Central Taiwan Region
The National Museum of Natural Science in Taichung, Taiwan, is a vast complex spanning 22 acres and comprising six main venues: the Space Theater, Science Center, Life Science Hall, Human Cultures Hall, Global Environment Hall, and Botanical Garden. Established in 1986, it was designed with a focus on exploratory and experiential science education. The museum houses extensive collections in zoology, botany, geology, and anthropology, supporting both public education and research. Notably, the Human Cultures Hall features a full-sized replica of Su Sung's 1092 AD Song Dynasty Astronomical Hydro-driven Clock, showcasing the fusion of ancient science and culture. The Botanical Garden includes a Tropical Rainforest Greenhouse, adding a living exhibit to the museum's offerings. Satellite museums such as the 921 Earthquake Museum further extend its educational reach. The museum is a cultural and scientific landmark in Central Taiwan, attracting visitors with its diverse exhibitions and interactive experiences.
Plan your trip to Taiwan with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors are advised to allocate several hours to fully explore the museum's extensive exhibits. The best time to visit is during weekdays or outside public holidays to avoid crowds. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but checking the official website for any available discounts or special exhibitions is recommended. The museum offers educational programs and guided tours, which may require advance booking, especially for groups or school visits.
Interesting facts
- •The museum features the only full-sized replica of Su Sung's Song Dynasty Astronomical Hydro-driven Clock from 1092 AD.
- •It spans 22 acres and includes six distinct venues covering a broad range of scientific disciplines.
- •The collection had grown to over 551,000 specimens by 1999, illustrating its extensive research and educational resources.
- •Satellite museums include the 921 Earthquake Museum, emphasizing Taiwan's seismic history.
- •The Botanical Garden includes a Tropical Rainforest Greenhouse, offering a living exhibit of tropical flora.
History
The National Museum of Natural Science was planned in 1980 and opened its first phase in 1986, under the leadership of architect and educator Han Pao-teh.
Initially focused on science education without permanent collections, it expanded through subsequent phases to include the Life Sciences Hall (1988), Human Cultures and Global Environment Halls (1993), and the Botanical Garden (1999).
The museum's collection grew to over half a million specimens by 1999.
It also established satellite museums, including the 921 Earthquake Museum in 2004, reflecting Taiwan's commitment to science and natural history education.
Place Guide
Space Theater
A dedicated venue within the museum offering immersive astronomical and space science presentations using advanced projection technology.
Science Center
The interactive core of the museum designed to engage visitors with hands-on scientific experiments and exhibits.
Life Science Hall1988
Exhibitions designed by James Gardner showcasing biological diversity and life sciences, completed in 1988.
Human Cultures Hall1993
Features cultural artifacts and scientific achievements, including the centerpiece full-sized replica of Su Sung's 1092 AD Astronomical Hydro-driven Clock.
Global Environment Hall1993
Exhibits focused on environmental science and global ecological issues, completed in 1993.
Botanical Garden and Tropical Rainforest Greenhouse1999
A living exhibit featuring diverse plant species from tropical rainforests, providing an immersive natural experience.
Contact
Phone: 04 2322 6940
