Lake Nojiri Naumann Elephant Museum: A Journey into Prehistoric Japan
Explore fossils of ancient elephants & extinct deer, plus tools of early humans at this unique museum by scenic Lake Nojiri in Nagano.
The Lake Nojiri Naumann Elephant Museum showcases the fossils of Naumann's elephant and other creatures from the Ice Age, discovered around Lake Nojiri. It offers a glimpse into the lives of these animals and the people who hunted them, some 40,000 years ago.
A brief summary to Lake Nojiri Naumann Elephant Museum
- 287-5 Nojiri, Shinano, Nojiri, Kamiminochi District, Nagano, 389-1303, JP
- +8126-258-2090
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the museum's website for information on special exhibitions and events that take place throughout the year.
- Consider visiting during the week for a more relaxed experience, as weekends can be crowded with families and school groups.
- The museum has a children's discovery corner where kids can try their hand at uncovering fossils and other activities.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Nagano Station, take the Shinano Railway Kita-Shinano Line to Kurohime Station. The journey takes approximately 35 minutes and costs ¥640. From Kurohime Station, take a Nagaden bus to Lake Nojiri. The bus ride is about 10 minutes and costs ¥200. The museum is a short walk from the bus stop.
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Taxi
From Kurohime Station, a taxi to the Lake Nojiri Naumann Elephant Museum takes about 10 minutes. Expect to pay around ¥1,500 - ¥2,000. Taxi services are usually available at the station.
Discover more about Lake Nojiri Naumann Elephant Museum
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