As both a National Natural Monument and a Historic Site that’s home to over 1,000 species of plants and animals like the Kingfisher, the Institute for Nature Study offers a lot to its visitors. The natural park is a 20-hectare preserve forest in Tokyo’s Minato Ward, making it a veritable oasis of peace in the heart of Japan’s capital where visitors can go to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
As the natural park is a part of the National Museum of Nature and Science, it puts a lot of emphasis on education. That’s why visitors will find signboards that give detailed information about the local flora and fauna all over the forest. Educational panels and videos are also available.
Additionally, the natural park distributes weekly up-to-date information on the best places in the forest to spot and enjoy exciting plants and animals. Also in the park is a famous pine tree that is said to have been on the grounds of a daimyo’s mansion during the Edo Period.