Want to discover and experience the truth about the ninja, backed by actual academic research and science?
Head down to the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) in Tokyo, Japan for the special exhibition: “The NINJA – who were they?”.
What can you expect from Miraikan’s Ninja Exhibit?
For a limited time, between 2 July to 10 October this year, explore all things ninja at this exhibition – everything from the shinobi’s skills to their diverse knowledge. This exhibition seeks to demonstrate the ninja’s abilities and also shows the latest ninja research from Mie University. Exhibits are offered in both Japanese and English.

Typical of special exhibitions (e.g. Pokémon Lab: You do it! You discover!) at the Miraikan, expect display and exhibits that involve immersive technologies and interactive activities that help you experience how it was like to be a ninja.
How is this different from other ninja experiences in Japan?
What makes The NINJA – who were they? different from other Japanese ninja experiences, is its emphasis on rigorous academic research. After all, this is a cooperative effort that includes Mie University, the only university heavily involved in academic research about ninja and ninjutsu.
Information about the ninja is often tainted by pre-modern Japanese pop culture literature. Having Mie University’s research, gives greater assurance that the ninja facts you learn have passed academic scrutiny.
Access Permanent Exhibits
You are free to spend the rest of your day viewing the permanent exhibits at the museum; your admission ticket gives you access to the entire National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan).
The below photos are from the Miraikan’s website and gives you an idea of what their permanent exhibit features.
Here are the details for the ninja special exhibition…
“The NINJA – who were they?” Details
Name of Exhibition | The NINJA – who were they? |
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Date |
Closed on Tuesdays: 5 & 12 July; 6, 13, 20 & 27 September; 4 October |
Venue |
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Opening Hours |
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Admission Fees |
Admission is valid for permanent exhibitions. |
Organisers |
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Special cooperation |
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Certified by |
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Cooperation |
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Supported by |
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Tickets can be bought at the Miraikan, over the counter at 7-Eleven and Family Mart (in Japan) or in advance through Fuji TV Direct and PIA Corporation.
Sources: Official exhibition website, Miraikan (National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation)