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Echigo Matsunoyama Kyororo Forest School: A Natural Science Haven

Explore the natural science and art of Japan's snow country at Echigo Matsunoyama Kyororo Forest School in Tokamachi.

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The Echigo Matsunoyama Kyororo Forest School is a unique museum and educational center nestled in the heavy snow region of Matsunoyama, Tokamachi. Designed to resemble a snake, this rust-colored steel structure offers immersive exhibits on local ecology, biodiversity, and the unique adaptations to the area's harsh winters.

A brief summary to Echigo Matsunoyama Kyororo Forest School

Local tips

  • Visit during winter to witness the museum's unique snowscape, where the building is partially buried under thick snow.
  • Check the museum's schedule for seasonal workshops and events, such as nature walks and woodworking experiences.
  • Climb the 34-meter tower for panoramic views of the surrounding Echigo-Tsumari landscape.
  • Explore the nearby Bijinbayashi Forest, a beautiful beech forest, for a tranquil nature walk.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Echigo-Yuzawa Station, take the Hokuhoku Line to Matsudai Station (45-60 minutes, ¥930). From Matsudai Station, take the local bus to Kyororo Forest School (15 minutes). Bus schedules may be limited, especially on weekends and holidays, so check in advance.

  • Taxi

    From Matsudai Station, a taxi to Kyororo Forest School takes approximately 10-15 minutes. The estimated cost is ¥2,000-¥3,000. Taxis may not be readily available at the station, so it's best to book in advance.

  • Driving

    Kyororo Forest School is approximately a 60-minute drive from Echigo-Yuzawa Station. Parking is available at the museum. Be aware that roads may be affected by heavy snow during winter.

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Discover more about Echigo Matsunoyama Kyororo Forest School

Echigo Matsunoyama Kyororo Forest School, also known as the Echigo Matsunoyama Museum of Natural Science, is more than just a museum; it's an experience that blends art, education, and the natural world. Located in the heart of Matsunoyama, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture, the museum is dedicated to exploring the unique ecology and culture of the Satoyama region, a cultivated landscape of forests, farmland and rice paddies. The museum's distinctive architecture, designed by Takahiro and Yubi Tezuka, is a work of art in itself. The building's snaking form, constructed from weather-resistant steel, is designed to reflect the area's walking trails. Over time, the steel's color gradually changes, creating a unique visual experience that evolves with the seasons. In winter, the museum is often buried under several meters of snow, creating a surreal and captivating scene. Inside, visitors can explore a range of exhibits focused on the natural science of the region. These include displays on local insects, aquatic life in the rice terraces, and the adaptations of the community to the heavy snowfall. A climb up the 34-meter tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding Echigo-Tsumari landscape, showcasing the beauty of the forests and rice paddies. The museum also hosts a variety of hands-on programs and workshops, allowing visitors to engage with the local nature and culture in a more immersive way. These activities include nature walks, traditional rice paddy workshops and woodworking experiences. Kyororo is deeply connected to the Echigo-Tsumari Art Field, one of the world's largest outdoor art festivals. The museum embodies the festival's theme of harmonious coexistence between people and nature. It serves as a hub for regional reconstruction, re-evaluating the ecology of the Satoyama region.

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