Nawa Insect Museum – A Fascinating World of Wings and Wonders

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Ambience & Setting
Nestled within Gifu Park at the base of Mount Kinka, the Nawa Insect Museum (Nawa Mushi Hakubutsukan) stands as Japan’s oldest entomological museum, established in 1919 by renowned entomologist Yasushi Nawa. The red-brick, Western-style building exudes early 20th-century charm, making it an architectural gem that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding natural scenery. Inside, the atmosphere feels both nostalgic and scholarly — a true cabinet of curiosities for insect lovers and curious visitors alike.

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Highlights of the Visit
• Extensive Collection: Houses over 300,000 insect specimens from Japan and around the world, with about 15,000 on display at any time — from delicate butterflies and jewel beetles to exotic tropical species.
• Japanese Insects Section: Showcases local fauna including rare species from Gifu and the Nagara River region, emphasizing biodiversity and environmental conservation.
• Butterfly Room: A dazzling highlight featuring colorful specimens in intricate arrangements — an almost artistic celebration of form and color.
• Beetle & Exotic Insects Displays: Giant beetles, stag beetles, and rare tropical species captivate with their size and armor-like appearances.
• Educational Displays: Insightful information on insect anatomy, life cycles, mimicry, and ecological roles, making it both visually engaging and scientifically enriching.

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Practical Info
• Location: 2-18 Omiya-cho, Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan (inside Gifu Park, near the Gifu City Museum of History)
• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (closed Mondays, or the next day if Monday is a holiday)
• Admission: Around ¥600 for adults, ¥400 for students, ¥200 for children
• Access: Take a bus from JR Gifu Station to Gifu Park, about 15 minutes, then a short walk

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Why It’s Worth Visiting
• A rare opportunity to explore one of Japan’s oldest natural science museums dedicated entirely to insects.
• Its historic building and vast global collection appeal to both families and researchers.
• Located conveniently within Gifu Park, making it easy to pair with Gifu Castle, the Gifu City Museum of History, and the Nagaragawa Ukai Museum.
• Offers a charming mix of education, nostalgia, and wonder, suitable for all ages.

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The Nawa Insect Museum is more than a scientific collection — it’s a testament to human curiosity and the intricate beauty of nature. Whether you’re an insect enthusiast or simply intrigued by the unseen world beneath our feet, this museum invites you to see life from a fascinating new perspective.