Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology -- Meiji-Maru Maritime Museum

Let me introduce Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology and the maritime museum.

About 10min. walk to the south from Monzen Nakacho metro station, you will reach the University.

It’s only university in Japan specialized in maritime science and technology.  Origin of the university dates back to 19th century, started as two different schools specialized in fisheries and mercantile marine. Two schools were integrated into one comprehensive university in 2003.

Meiji-maru Maritime Museum

I would like to recommend you visiting a historical ship called “Meiji-maru” which was built in 1874 in Glasgow of UK as a first iron ship of Japan.  The main function of the ship was to transport materials to maintain lighthouses located throughout Japan.

Since the ship was well equipped and gorgeously furnished with a salon and special guest room, it served as a royal ship as well. The Emperor Meiji and high-ranking government officials boarded this ship for important occasions.
　　　　　　　
After the Meiji-maru served as maintenance ship for lighthouses for 20years, it was handed over to the mercantile marine school which is the predecessor of the present Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology.  After that the ship was moored in campus ground and served as training facility for students for about 50years.

This is only iron ship existing in Japan and registered as an important cultural asset of Japan.

The ship is now open to the public as a maritime museum.
Open on Tuesday and Thursday, 1st & 3rd Saturday of month from 10:00 to 15:00.
A guided tour is available (Guided only in Japanese)

This is a steamship with three masts and gorgeous cabins.  I’m certain that you will enjoy its majestic appearance and feel cruising in the Meiji era.

You also can enjoy magnificent view of high-rise buildings of Toyosu district on board. The contrast of old steamship and high-rise buildings in blue sky will makes you refreshed.

The ship is surrounded by many cherry trees so that you will enjoy nice view of pink blossoms in season by the ship. Cherry blossom festival takes place from March 24th to April 1st in the campus and the ship will be illuminated at night during the festival.

　(by Haruko)