Contents
I

The Lake Biwa Museum – Serving a Vital Need...................................................................1

II

Founding Principles..............................................................................................................2

III

Activities ..............................................................................................................................

IV

Research Activities...............................................................................................................5

VInteraction and Public Services............................................................................................7

VI

Collection and Curation of Specimens and Artifacts.............................................................9VII

Information Activities.........................................................................................................11

VIII

Exhibits...............................................................................................................................12
1. Concept of the Exhibits..................................................................................................12
2. Permanent Exhibits........................................................................................................12. Special Exhibition Room...............................................................................................15
4. Operation of the Exhibition Rooms.................................................................................15

IX

Organization.......................................................................................................................17

X

History and Background of the Museum...........................................................................18

XI

Facilities.............................................................................................................................20
1. Construction and Design.................................................................................................20
2. Outline of Premises and Facilities...................................................................................20. Construction Schedule....................................................................................................2
4. Construction Expenditures for the Lake Biwa Museum...............................................24
5. Reconstruction Expenditures for Exhibits and Communication Spaces..........................25
6. Amount of Donations for Renewal of Exhibitions...........................................................25
7. Museum Map..................................................................................................................26
8. Floor Plan: Basement......................................................................................................26
9. Floor Plan: First floor......................................................................................................27
10. Floor Plan: Second floor................................................................................................28
11. Floor Plan: Annex..........................................................................................................29

XII

Visitor Information............................................................................................................. 0* Cover photograph: Aerial View of the Lake Biwa Museum

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I

The Lake Biwa Museum – Serving a Vital Need

Although Lake Biwa occupies only one-sixth of the area of Shiga Prefecture, it has a significant influence
not only on those who live along its shores, but on all the residents of Shiga and neighboring prefectures.
Besides playing a central role in the lives of local residents, the lake is an important freshwater resource andis, in fact, Japan’s largest lake. It is a symbol of the prefecture, and its beautiful natural surroundings are asource of national pride having few equals in the country.
Interestingly, Lake Biwa is one of the world’s oldest lakes. Having evolved over millions of years, its manyorganisms - including some found nowhere else on earth - are extremely diverse and fascinating to behold.
The human settlements on the shores of the lake also have a rich history, with origins dating back to ancient
times. Settlers in the area have engaged in agriculture and fishing and have developed unique regional
cultures. Over the years, their interesting way of life has fostered a number of cultural traditions. Clearly,
Lake Biwa is a multifaceted resource of great value, not only to the Japanese, but to all of humanity. The lake
is without doubt an integral part of Japan’s natural and cultural heritage.
During Japan’s pursuit of rapid economic growth in the postwar period, dramatic industrialization andurbanization in the area improved the living standards of local residents and resulted in material affluence.
On the other hand, it is apparent that this economic progress has adversely affected the environment and has
led to a decline in some of the more spiritual aspects of Japanese society. We are only now beginning tounderstand these changes.
Today, the world has come to understand that we must shift our cultural trends and way of life in a moredesirable direction and, in the process, hand down to coming generations a renewed culture focused on oursurroundings. This can be thought of as a gift to the future, the idea that “we must dedicate our lives, and thehealth of the environment, to future, as-yet-unborn generations.” Encouragingly, this ideal has taken root
worldwide.
Building on this understanding, we must identify the multifaceted values of Lake Biwa, consider thereciprocal effects on the lake and its people over their shared history, ponder our own relationship with thelake, develop a better attitude toward the lake in the new era, and reexamine the focus of our culture. This is
the most important challenge confronting the present generation. This challenge is important not only to thepreservation of Lake Biwa and its environs, but also to the preservation of the global environment.
The Lake Biwa Museum was established in April, 1996, and was opened to the public in October of thesame year, following more than a decade of preparation. Its purpose is to conduct research on humanity’s
historical relationship with lakes, collect and classify related data, and share its research findings with thepeople of Shiga Prefecture in order to pursue a better future. The Lake Biwa Museum is a research institute,cultural center, and life-long study facility, as well as a center of interaction and information. In other words,
it is a facility that meets our intellectual needs, offers a forum for communication, and fosters creativity forthe future, and it thereby leads the effort to create a new way of looking at our relationship with freshwaterlakes.

1

II

Founding Principles

1. To be a viable, growing museum that explores an unknown world under the theme of “Lakes andPeople”
Lake Biwa is characterized not only by its beautiful natural environment, but also by the historical ties local
residents have developed to the lake over the years. Studies of Lake Biwa have inevitably involved studies
on our relationship with nature, and thus require a truly comprehensive approach.
Acknowledging this reality, the Lake Biwa Museum will develop the capability to collect information on
Lake Biwa and other lakes – including their natural features and the relationships between people and thelakes – and present exhibitions as well as provide public services incorporating its findings under the themeof “Lakes and People.” At the same time, the museum will emphasize the development of advanced researchcapabilities as an essential function.
The ability to continue providing such comprehensive services will add to the appeal of the museum, as it
will enable the museum to offer visitors something new to discover with every visit and will make visitors
want to return again and again.
By conducting research of international significance on Lake Biwa, the Lake Biwa Museum is expected tocontribute to preservation of the global environment and biological diversity, deepen understanding of
indigenous culture, and assume a leading role internationally in the study of lakes and marshes.
2. To serve as an entrance to the study field.
The Lake Biwa watershed has undergone an evolution of its natural ecosystem and suffered the effects ofconflicts with mankind throughout human history. This area deserves close observation, as somethingimportant yet intangible and unknown lies behind the visible and perceptible. In the belief that nature is anunending source of exciting discoveries and creativity, the Lake Biwa Museum will design and offer a variety
of programs to stimulate research and civic interaction in the local community. In so doing, the museum will
direct the attention of local residents to their own lives and community.
The museum’s scope is not limited to Japanese lakes; it also includes lakes and marshes in Asia and theworld. Comparative studies of these lakes will help deepen understanding of the value and significance of
Lake Biwa, as well as our relationship with lakes.
3. To offer varied public services and serve as a venue for interaction in the community.
The Lake Biwa Museum is not merely an exhibition facility; it also aims to serve as a focal point for people
to encounter new information. Moreover, it will grow and evolve by inviting visitors – both experts and lay
people – to participate in activities such as exhibitions, interactive events, public services, and research, andwill offer opportunities for simultaneous recreation, learning, and association.
Today, our society requires individuals to develop their originality and vitality through life-long study. In
this context, the museum must seek the involvement of people of all ages by presenting a venue where people
meet and learn, and where a new sense of values can be created.

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III

Activities

The Lake Biwa Museum undertakes the following activities, through which it encourages visitors to
exchange knowledge and information while serving as a venue for interaction. In this way it will continue todevelop and evolve.
1. Research
The museum undertakes research covering a broad range of themes, present exhibitions, and offer public
services incorporating the results of this research. The museum also established a research system that invites
local residents to participate in research activities in a broad range of fields. Furthermore, the museum
develops the capabilities for drafting, planning, and launching long-term, comprehensive andinterdisciplinary research programs, while fostering cooperative ties with other research institutes anduniversities located near Lake Biwa. It also established a network with other institutions involved in lake andmarsh research around the world.
2. Civic interaction and public services
In order to offer the public a forum for intellectual stimulation, the museum emphasizes public services
and launches a variety of programs in which all can participate and take pleasure.
The museum also offers nature-observation programs at its outdoor exhibition facilities, as well as field trips
to observe natural features, fauna, historical properties, and cultural life, while also stressing public relations
and publication activities.
3. Collections
The museum systematically collects, curates, and preserves data, specimens, and artifacts representing thenatural and cultural features of Lake Biwa and its drainage basin, as well as similar information and materials
pertaining to other lake districts in Japan and around the world. Efforts are also directed at developing
technologies and methods to store, manage, and maintain these specimens and artifacts in good condition.
4. Information
The museum collects and stores data on Lake Biwa and other lakes and marshes in Japan and abroad, andoffers this information to the public after analysis and classification. In order to develop new information
channels, it also promotes networking with local citizens and related bodies both within and outside Shiga
Prefecture while encouraging exchanges of information.
5. Exhibits
The museum presents clear, friendly, and enjoyable displays in its permanent, special, and travelingexhibitions. As part of its effort to involve local citizens in its activities, the museum has its Field Reportersand “Hashikake” group members present exhibits and provide information in person in order to offer
opportunities for interactive communication. The museum also invites visitors to submit their opinions, whichassist the museum in its efforts to increase public interest in the neighboring natural environment.

3

Activities of the Lake Biwa Museum4

IV

Research Activities

Through publications, exhibitions and communicative activities, the museum has continued to disseminate
information attained through constant accumulation of the latest knowledge and data, and their analysis andclassification. The museum aims to develop and evolve in tandem with the museum users. The museum
believes that it is important to retain a highly skilled research staff and to transmit the latest information
continuously so as not to fail to promote its development and to gain support from users.
1. Research
There are three categories of research project supported by internal funding in the Lake Biwa Museum:Comprehensive Research, Joint Research and Specialized Research. For the Comprehensive Research andJoint Research projects and some of the Specialized Research projects, a panel of referees selected mainly
from outside the museum evaluates each project proposal and decides upon its rejection or adoption and its
research budget allowance.
(1) Comprehensive Research
The museum conducts comprehensive and multidisciplinary research activities under the main theme“Lakes and People”. Through such projects’ wide-scope approach it is hoped that an innovative and uniqueperspective, which would not be obtained within a single discipline, will be gained. Such research findings
are disseminated locally, nationally, and internationally, so that the public broadly recognizes the ‘value’ of
Lake Biwa and the significance of the museum. Thus, Comprehensive Research constitutes the mostimportant category amongst the research projects of the museum, and also play a critical role in considerationof the future of Lake Biwa by local people and different levels of government. Comprehensive Research
Projects are planned by curators of the museum, and are implemented collaboratively with scientists fromwithin and outside the museum. The term of an individual project is - 10 years.
(2) Joint Research
Joint Research Projects focus on a more specific and limited theme than those of Comprehensive Research.
Curators of the museum plan the projects, and the research is undertaken collaboratively with scientists fromwithin and outside the museum. The objective of this research is not only to address the topics of conventional
study fields, but also to find, create, and transmit innovative and unique research themes and approaches. The
research includes themes that may contribute towards or develop into Comprehensive Research Projects inthe future. The term of an individual project is 1 - 5 years.
(3) Specialized ResearchSpecialized Research is conducted on an individual curator basis to foster the academic abilities of curatorsand to expand and diversify the museum’s abilities. The project term is not defined.
(4) Externally funded research
The Lake Biwa Museum was appointed as a research institution by the Ministry of Education, Culture,
Sports, Science and Technology in fiscal year 2002, and is thus eligible for Grants-in-Aid for Scientific
Research. Additional external funds are also utilized for research.

52. Other Research Activities(1) Publication within the Scientific Research Department
The museum actively encourages curators to make public their research results in scientific journals and at
meetings. Alternatively, research results of Comprehensive and Collaborative Research projects may also be
published as a Research Report of the Lake Biwa Museum. Performance records of the Lake Biwa Museum
are also presented annually on the museum’s website.
(2) Research Communication
Research seminars are held monthly for curators to share their own research results and information.
Special seminars by external researchers are held irregularly. The Lake Biwa Museum Research Presentation
Meeting is held once or twice a year to introduce the museum’s research activities to the public.
(3) Special Researchers
The museum accepts researchers involved in a collaborative capacity in Comprehensive and Joint Research
projects, etc., to study in the museum. There is also a provision for non-museum staff to use facilities andresearch equipment in the museum.
3. Structure of the Scientific Research Division
The Scientific Research Division is comprised of the following three divisions:(1) Cultural History and Geoscience Research Group: studies the patterns and processes of the developmentof lakes and society.
(2) Biotic and Human Interaction Research Group: studies the biology and ecology of lakes, and the effects
and interrelationships of human activities with these features.
( ) Museum Studies Research Group: studies ways to best design, manage, and operate a museum thatprovides information and leads research centered upon the “Lakes and People” theme.

6VInteraction and Public Services

The Lake Biwa Museum strives to present opportunities for information exchange and interactions between
the museum and visitors. Toward this end, the museum makes public its research results and collections
inventory in order to encourage more effective use of the museum.
1. Community Groups(1) Field Reporter System
Field Reporters submit to the museum periodic reports on natural, historical, and cultural aspects of theirlocal surroundings throughout Shiga Prefecture. These results from Field Reporters’ surveys are often
incorporated into the museum’s exhibits.
(2) “Hashikake” System
Users register for the “Hashikake” system and participate in the research, outreach, and exhibit activitiesof the museum independently. Many different opportunities are thus provided for users to become actively
involved in museum activities.
2. Public Services(1) Nature Observation Meetings Observations, tours, experience classes
Nature observation meetings and field trips are conducted to offer the public opportunities to learn about
nature and human activities outdoors. The museum encourages visitors to deepen their interests in nature,living things and the museum itself, by offering nature observation opportunities around the museum; guided
tours behind the scenes of the museum; and instruction in scientific experiments and other hands-on practicaltraining.
(2) Special Lectures and Courses in the Museum
For persons who desire advanced and specific knowledge concerning scientific studies of nature andculture, the museum conducts various special lectures and courses at an advanced level.
(3) Question Corner
Each day in the Search and Discover Room of the museum a different curator takes turns in answering
diverse questions from visitors. “Question Corner” allows interaction between visitors and curators.
(4) Floor Talks
Curators take turns talking about their studies to visitors in the exhibition rooms and outdoor facilities ofthe museum. Usually, talks are conducted from 11:00 A.M. everyday.
(5) Answering Questions by E-mailQuestions and requests can be made via the museum’s query e-email address. Queries are forwarded tothe curator in charge of each field.

7

3 Cooperation with Schools and Communities(1) School Groups
Explanatory outlines of the exhibitions are given to school groups and staff so that they can use the museum
more effectively.
(2) Training for Faculty and Staff
The museum provides training to teaching staff to improve professional skills and raise their interest innature.
(3) Regional Cooperation Support
The museum develops and provides learning programs throughout the year in cooperation with various
local organizations, such as local resident groups.
4 Interaction and Service Facilities(1) Grand Hall
The Grand Hall is used for museum-sponsored lectures, symposiums, and academic conferences. It has
246 seats and is equipped with wheelchair spaces, simultaneous interpretation booths, and a projection
room.
(2) Seminar RoomThe Seminar Room is used for various events such as explanations for museum user groups and museum
lectures. About 90 seats are available.
(3) Discovery LabsThe Discovery Labs are used for practical training events hosted by the museum, and hands-on learningfor school groups.
(4) Annex
The Annex provides additional meeting rooms for groups, and is also equipped with a room dedicated tocaregiving and a toilet for people with disabilities.

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VI

Collection and Curation of Specimens and Artifacts

The Lake Biwa Museum houses more than 1.4 million
specimens and artefacts in the fields of nature, humanities, social
sciences, etc. from Japan and around the world, with a focus on
Lake Biwa, its catchment area, and the Yodo River Basin. Ithouses a variety of materials such as original artefacts, aquatic
specimens such as preserved fish, videos, and books, making it adiverse group of collections unlike any other in Japan. The
museum also houses a large number of valuable materials,
including type specimens used to describe species, collections ofCorridor of the Collections Rooms
prominent researchers, and national and prefectural designatedcultural properties. Materials are collected not only by curatorial staff, but also by means of purchase,
donation, deposition, collection, etc., with the cooperation of related institutions, experts, "Hashikake"community groups, and residents of the prefecture. The materials in the collection are organized according
to the system for each material category, stored safely and in good condition for a long period of time, andused for exhibitions, viewing, lending, etc.
1 Facilities
The wide variety of materials collected by the Lake Biwa Museum require different handling depending on
their nature. There are nine collection rooms: Zoological, Geological, Archaeological, Liquid-Preserved,
Botanical, Ethnological, Special, and Video Collections rooms. There are two entry points for materials, one
for general materials and one for aquarium materials. In addition, there are also low-temperature/freezer
storage areas, and the Conservation and Breeding Center. Books and other reading materials are also stored
in a stack room separate from the storage rooms.
2 Characteristics of Collections
The collections cover 11 fields: geological specimens, animal specimens (dried/immersed), plant specimens,
microbial specimens, aquatic specimens (living organisms), archaeological materials, historical materials,
folklore materials, environmental materials, books, and videos. Representative materials in each field are as
follows: Geology: Fossil collection of the Paleo-lake Biwa Research Group; Zoology: type specimens ofinsects, crustaceans, shellfish, etc., the Shuichi Murayama Butterfly Collection, fish specimens collected by
the community group Hashikake “Uonokai”; Botany: The Sakuba Plant Specimen Collection; Microbiology:
type specimens of microorganisms, protists etc.; Archeology: the Prefectural Designated Tangible Cultural
Property "Matsubara Naiko ruins spatula-shaped wooden artifacts"; History: the Important Cultural Property"Toji Documents", Hiyoshi Sanno Festival folding screens; Ethnology: Fishing equipment of Lake Biwa andits catchment area; Books: More than 150,000 books, serial publications; Images: the Takasuke Maeno Photo
Collection.
3 Organizing Artifacts and Breeding of Live Specimens
Staff organize specimens and artifacts according to the system of each collection, perform preservation
processing that matches the characteristics of the materials, and proceed with maintenance, shelving, andstorage. Since some aquatic specimens are living organisms, breeding programs are conducted.
(1) Curators: Newly collected specimens and artifacts are preserved and maintained by a curator who has aparticular high degree of expertise in the relevant field. Additionally, materials are registered in the relevant
museum database.
(2) Aquarium Keepers: In addition to breeding freshwater organisms in the Aquarium and Exhibition Room
C, Aquarium Keepers also maintain the breeding facilities. Together with the curators, they hold aquatic9

exhibitions and topical exhibitions, conduct feeding demonstrations, and participate in aquatic exhibition
exchanges.
4 Storage of Materials
In order to protect the stored materials from insects and fungi and preserve them semi-permanently, an annual
plan based on the concept of IPM (Integrated Pest Control Management) is carried out.
(1) Regular cleaning: In order to prevent pests and mold from growing in each storage room and storage
corridor, etc., cleaning is carried out once a month.
(2) Biological environmental survey: In June, October, and February, a biological environmental survey
is conducted by placing insect traps in more than 200 locations in the building, in order to investigate theoccurrence of pests. Special cleaning is carried out based on the results.
( ) Storage temperature and humidity management: The temperature and humidity are set according to
the properties of the materials in each storage room, monitored 24 hours a day, and checked twice a week.
(4) Fumigation, etc.: For materials brought into storage, either carbon dioxide fumigation, ethylene oxide
fumigation, freeze fumigation, or deoxygenation treatment is carried out in the fumigation room.
(5) Others: A clean environment is maintained at all times, such as prohibiting outdoor shoes in thecollection rooms. In addition, lectures on IPM are held for the training of new employees, etc., and efforts
are made to raise staff awareness.
5 Material Databases
A database is used in each field to manage the collected materials. The databases can be searched via theMuseum’s webpage.
6 Utilization of Materials
Under the management of the curator in charge, materials are used for museum exhibitions and exchange
projects. In addition, based on the ordinance regarding the establishment and management of the Lake Biwa
Museum, special viewing and lending, such as inspection, copying etc. are available.
Category

Unit

Inspection

1,450円
1 item per day

Copying
ImitationColor

2,900円
1 item per time

Monochrome
Use of Negatives

2,900円
2,900円

Monochrome
Photographs

Fee

Color

5,820円
1,450円

1 sheet per time

2,900円

7 Use of the Library
Many books and academic periodicals are part of the collections of the Lake Biwa Museum. In the Search& Discover Room (Exhibition Room E), books related to each field are open on the shelves, creating anenvironment where visitors can quickly consult reference books. Other books are stored in the adjoining
stacks and can be viewed through a request to a librarian. The Museum does not lend out library materials,
but does provide a copy service for a fee. In the stacks are technical books, reports from universities andresearch institutes, academic journals, academic documents, administrative materials, such as city history andstatistics published by municipalities in Shiga Prefecture, excavation reports, and museum publications fromall over the country. A wide variety of materials such as catalogs, newsletters, and research reports are also
stored.
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VII

Information Activities

The Lake Biwa Museum uses its website and social media to provide a variety of information. In addition,
new developments are underway so that permanent exhibitions and collections can be accessed anytime,
anywhere.
1 Website
Our website provides information on viewing fees, opening hours, various events, transportation access,nearby facilities, etc. 60-degree videos of the permanent exhibitions are also available. Information on themuseum’s activities, including research, publications, and museum participation programs, is also given.
2 Social MediaThe museum’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts provide timely information on the museum's
activities. Furthermore, the museum’s YouTube channel “Biwako Chikara” provides videos of curator'sresearch activities in an easy-to-understand manner, videos of museum activities, and footage of fauna andflora from the lake.
3 Document Database and Web Encyclopedias
All materials in the museum's collection are managed in databases that can be searched from the museum’s
website, including information on how they are stored, academic information, and information on distribution
and use, such as copyright. In addition, the museum is reorganizing and publishing the results of research as"web encyclopedias", which are useful for learning activities.

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VIII

Exhibitsl. Concept of the Exhibits(1) The exhibits shall deal with the geology, history, environment, and aquatic organisms of Lake Biwa andbe designed to suggest a way to foster a better relationship between “Lakes and People.”(2) The exhibits shall deal extensively with articles from around the world, yet will concentrate on the local
community.
( ) The exhibits shall be designed to encourage visitors to think about the environment and will renew visitors'
awareness of their surroundings in conjunction with the museum’s participatory learning opportunities
and other public services.
(4) Special exhibitions by local people as well as traveling exhibitions shall be offered to make the exhibits
more extensive and meaningful.
(5) The exhibits shall be designed with due consideration for persons with disabilities, the elderly, andchildren.
(6) Research findings and results shall be incorporated in the exhibits whenever possible to encourage theircontinual refinement.
(7) The exhibits shall be designed to attract people of various needs and backgrounds while adhering to theprinciple of offering opportunities for all to learn about Lake Biwa and its environment.
(8) The exhibits shall be designed to inspire visitors to explore the outdoors around Lake Biwa.
(9) To ensure that the exhibits continue to grow and develop, information submitted by the community shallbe incorporated and the suggestions of visitors concerning the museum’s daily activities will beacknowledged.
2. Permanent Exhibits
From 2014, the A, B, and C exhibition rooms, Aquarium, Discovery Room, Search & Discover Room, andthe Outdoor Exhibits were renewed in three stages over a six-year period, with the grand opening held in
October 2020.
(1) Exhibition Room A "Four Million Years of Lake History, and People: Changing Lake Biwa”
Centering on the changes that have occurred in the natural environment, the long history of Lake Biwa, whichspans approximately four million years, is divided into
three parts: "land and lake," "living creatures," and"climate and forest." Through the exhibits, it is conveyedthat the current environment is the result of environmental
changes from the past, and is also in the process ofchanging into the future. The land and lakes corner
exhibits geological specimens, the living creatures corner
exhibits animal fossils, and the climate and forests corner
focuses on plant fossil specimens, along with explanations
based on research results. In addition, there are also
exhibits of an excavation scene of fossil footprints, and a Half-skeletal reconstructed specimen of a Tudanski
diorama of a forest in which elephants lived about two elephant (left) and reconstructed skeleton of an
Akebono elephant (right)
million years ago. In the exhibition corner for local
people, those who are researching fossils in the area are
exhibiting the specimens they have collected.

121. The beginning of the story of Lake Biwa
2. Story of Lake Biwa and its creatures. The changing land and lake
4. Transforming creatures
5. Changing climate and forest
6. History of Lake Biwa and us(2) Human History and the Lake: Nature and Our Lifestyles
In this exhibition room, the natural environment of Shiga Prefecture is divided into “forests", “waterfronts",
and “lakes", with explanations about how people and the natural environment have been intertwined in eacharea. In addition, the place where people are based in the natural environment is regarded as a "village", andthe system that has maintained it is conveyed. As an environmental history navigator, a “dragon,” which is acreature made of fear of nature, appears, and by looking back on the history of living with the dragon (nature),
an opportunity is provided to think about the relationship between humans and the natural environment in the
future. Visitors can learn about Shiga's environmental history from a variety of perspectives, mainly fromdisplays of actual artefacts, such as fishing equipment, which is nationally registered tangible folk culturalproperty, as well as photo spots, hands-on exhibits, one-word
explanations, and explanations in English.
1. The beginning of our lifestyles
2. Forest. Waterside
4. Lake
5. Village
6. To our current lifestyles

Waterside(3) Exhibition Room C: Nature Connecting with Our Lifestyles
Using familiar landscapes, from the shores of Lake Biwa at the entrance, to forests, this exhibition room
introduces the relationships between the environment, humans, and living things. From there, visitors areinvited to discover the fun hidden in the world around them, connect to the museum's outdoor exhibitions
and exchange projects, and experience the appeal of nature. The exhibition utilizes the results of researchcarried out at the museum and the specimens collected since its opening, and is designed to display livingorganisms and allow visitors to experience the realism of nature with all five senses. Several exhibition
corners are also equipped with exchange spots that introduce the activities of local people and the latest
research results.
1. Let's go to Lake Biwa
2. Let's enter the reed beds
3. To the rice fields
4. From the river to the forest
5. Our lives
6. Specimen collection
7. Lake Biwa in the future

From Rivers to Forests13(4) Aquarium: Humans and Lake Environments – Aquatic Organisms and Our Lifestyles
The Aquarium shows relationships between our lives and Lake Biwa, and the value of Lake Biwa as anancient lake. The environment of Lake Biwa and its catchment area are reproduced with fish tanks to show
the ecology of creatures living there. At the same time, it shows how our lives are associated with creaturesof Lake Biwa, by combining tanks with dioramas and commentary panels.
Through the exhibits about Lake Baikal, the oldest ancient lake in the world, and lakes of the African Great
Rift Valley, visitors can appreciate the value of Lake Biwa as an ancient lake, and increase their desire toprotect it.
The Micro Aquarium displays the minute creatures that live in Lake Biwa and the surrounding area tohighlight the crucial role that such tiny organisms play in the lake's ecosystem.
1 Let's go out into Lake Biwa
2. Fish in our daily lives
Into the river
4 Waterside birds
5 Revive! Japanese freshwater fish
6 The world of ancient lakes
7 Ancient fish
8 Touching corner
9 Micro Aquarium

Micro Aquarium(5) Discovery RoomThe Discover Room serves as the "entrance to the Lake Biwa Museum," by providing an opportunity forvisitors to experience the joys of learning and discovering through hands-on exhibits, using the five senses.
The aim is to increase the number of museum enthusiasts in the future through an enjoyable experience using
exhibits that children and adults can enjoy together. The main explanation panel gives only simple directions,and the supplementary commentary panels includes the purpose of the corner and displays content that canbe understood by many users, from children to adults. It is also a place where first time visitors can learn how
to handle exhibits and experience real artefacts, and enjoy the concept of discovery using their five senses,
providing fun for both adults and children.
1. Let's touch
2. Let's ask. Let's smell
4. Let's make it bigger
5. Let's search
6. Let's find out - creatures’ homes
7. Let's find out - creatures’ shapes
8. Let's take a peek - the world of fish
9. Puppet show
10. Grandma's kitchen
11. Become a crayfish
12. Discovery corner
1 . Boar teeth, bat teeth
14. Everyone's treasure
15. Book corner
16. Thread drawing cornerDiscovery Room14

(6) Search and DiscoverThis is an exhibition room that stimulates adults’ curiosity and enjoyment. It aims to be used repeatedly,
mostly as an experiential exhibition space, a place for people who are active in the museum to meet andgather, and a space that makes them want to go out into the field. In the research zone, visitors can pick up
specimens and materials and observe them up close. The specimens are devised so that their texture andbeauty can be intuitively perceived. There are easy-to-operate microscopes, so visitors can take a favorite
specimen box, magnify it on the monitor, and observe it carefully. There is also a question corner, where
curators are stationed daily. In the glass-enclosed open laboratory, work that is usually done in a laboratory
or storage room, such as processing specimens and organizing materials, is demonstrated.
1 Investigation zones:
Insects, birds, mammals, fish, shellfish, amphibians/reptiles,
folklore, archeology, documents, plants, rocks/minerals/fossils,
sketch table
2 Question corner
Open Lab
4 Exchange corner
5 Shiga Prefecture main corner

Search & Discover(7) Outdoor Exhibitions"This is the field closest to the museum." In the Outdoor
exhibitions, the past forests surrounding Lake Biwa,
introduced in exhibition rooms A and B, are reproduced.
There is also a Life and Culture Laboratory and a rice field
where visitors can experience the old lifestyle. If you walkthe “Treetop Walk", which is an aerial promenade aroundthe outdoor exhibition forest, you can observe the forest
creatures in front of you while feeling the breeze from
Lake Biwa.
1 Jomon forest
2 Ancient forest
Life and Culture Laboratory
4 Treetop Walk

Treetop Walk

3. Other Exhibition Facilities(1) Special Exhibitions
This facility is used for various types of exhibitions, such as annual “Special Exhibitions” and smallerscale “Gallery Exhibitions,” showcasing the Museum’s collections. Exhibitions planned in collaboration withother organizations are also held here.
(2) Aquarium Special Exhibition RoomThis facility is for special exhibits on selected themes, and focuses on freshwater fishes and otherorganisms. It is also used for the display of aquatic organisms connected with the museum’s “Special
Exhibitions”.
4 Operation of the exhibition room
In addition to museum curators, the exhibition rooms are managed by Exhibition Exchange Staff,
Aquarium Keepers, Discovery Room Management Staff, and Exhibition Repair and Maintenance Staff. Staff
utilize their specialized knowledge and skills to operate the exhibition rooms on a daily basis in cooperation
with each other. The museum is developing activities to deepen exchanges with visitors through exhibitions,
to make them feel closer to the exhibitions, and to enhance their enjoyment of them.

15(1) Exhibition Exchange Staff
In addition to serving as a guide for visitors, Exhibition Exchange Staff interact with visitors throughthe exhibits, drawing out visitors’ interests, and turning their attention to the nature and life around them.
They actively interact with visitors, and include their own commentary on the exhibits. They also play
important safety roles, such as daily safety management in the exhibition rooms and evacuation guidance incase of an emergency.
(2) Discovery Room Management Staff
The Discovery Room, which is an introductory part of the museum, aims to cultivate future museum fans
who are familiar with the museum, from children to adults. The Discovery Room Staff organize exhibits andevents so that visitors can participate and make new discoveries.
(3) Exhibition Repair and Maintenance Staff
The museum's exhibition rooms include many easily accessible exhibitions and hands-on exhibits, which
are prone to damage and wear and tear. The Exhibition Repair and Maintenance Staff maintain and manage
the exhibition rooms, such as repairing damaged exhibits.

16

IX

Organization
April 1st, 2022

Director
GeneralMuseum Board
Vice
Director

Vice
Director

Operations
Department

General Affairs
Department

Scientific Research
DepartmentooPublic Relations
and Business
Division

Planning and
Coordination
Division

General Affairs
DivisionoCultural History and Geoscience
Research Group
Biotic and Human Interaction
Research Group
Museum Studies ResearchGroupo Business operation plan,o PR activities
o General affairs,
comprehensive adjustmento Collaboration withbudgeting, ando Medium- to long-term basic plancompanies
accountingo International exchangeo Acquisition of external funds
o Supervision ofoOperationofinformationo
Improve the attractivenessmanagement andsystemsof the Karasuma Peninsula
operationso Lake Biwa Museum Councilo Maintenance andmanagement of facilities o Shiga Prefectural Museum
Councilo Collaboration with othermuseums

Exhibition
SectionPublic Services
CenterCollections
Sectiono Permanent, special, outdoor,
and travelling exhibitionso Exhibition Interactive Staff

Environmental
Learning Centero Collection, organization,o Exchanges and services
storage, and use of museumwith museum users
materials
Management andBreeding and conservation
operation of exchangeof aquatic animals
related facilities

Classification

Director
General (parttime)

Number ofstaff

1

Researchpersonnel

Educational

personnel

8

27

2

Administrative

17

personnelo Planning and operation ofenvironmental learning
centerSubtotal

Other parttime staff

Total

38

26

64

X

History and Background of the Museum

Fiscal Year 1979
● The Shiga Prefectural Study Group for High School Science
Education submits a request form to the Shiga Prefectural
Government.

Fiscal Year 1993
● 199 : One curatorial staff is hired.
● 199 : Participatory surveys involving local residents arelaunched.
● January 1994: A draft agreement for exhibits andconstruction is passed by the Prefectural Assembly on
January 6. (The construction period is January 7, 1994, to
March 1, 1996, with a groundbreaking ceremony on
January 29.)
● Production of exhibits begins, the information system isconfigured, and the museum's administration policies are
considered.

Fiscal Year 1985
● February 1986: The Prefectural Museum Construction Fund,with assets of ¥2 billion, is founded. (The Lake Biwa
Management and Coordination Fund donates ¥700 million to
the fund.)Fiscal Year 1986
● A survey is conducted to examine the current situation,
problems, and desirable direction for museums in general.

Fiscal Year 1994
● 1994: One curatorial staff is hired.
● July 1994: The “Hwang Ho (Yellow River) ElephantExhibit” is held from July 0 to August 4 at the Kusatsu
Culture and Art Hall.
● January l995: A symposium entitled “Surveying ourEnvironment and Construction of the Museum” is held on
January 22 at the Yasu Culture Theater.
● March 1995: The launching ceremony is held for the
Maruko-bune, a traditional type of cargo boat. A public
exhibition of the boat is held on March 25 at the Matsui
Shipbuilding Yard and on March 25 and 26 at the Karasuma
Peninsula.

Fiscal Year 1987
● November 1987: The Committee to Develop the Basic
Concept of the Prefectural Lake Biwa Museum is establishedunder the chairmanship of Dr. Tatsuo Kira, President of theLake Biwa Research Institute.
Fiscal Year 1988
● April 1988: A Subcommittee to the Committee to Develop
the Basic Concept of the Prefectural Lake Biwa Museum isestablished under the chairmanship of Dr. Taizo Miura,
Assistant Professor of Kyoto University.
● March 1989: The basic concept of the Prefectural Lake Biwa
Museum is determined.

Fiscal Year 1995
● September 1995: The Preparatory Committee for theOpening of the Shiga Lake Biwa Museum is establishedunder the chairmanship of Dr. Manzo Chiji, Professor of
Kyoto Tachibana College.
● October l995: Museum seminars begin.
● February l996: A photo exhibition, “The Story of Lake Biwa
by Takashi Maeno”, is held as a preliminary event before theopening of the museum at the Minakuchi Culture and Art
Hall, and Nagahama Rakuichi.
● February 1996: A symposium entitled “Probing the Historyof Lake Biwa in Kafuka Village” is held at Minakuchi
Hekisui Hall.
● March 1996: The construction of the main building iscompleted.

Fiscal Year l989
● 1989: First curatorial staff member is hired.
● June 1989: The Preparatory Committee for the Constructionof the Lake Biwa Museum is established under thechairmanship of Dr. Manzo Chiji, Professor of Kyoto
Tachibana College. (Four task forces dealing withexhibitions, administration, facilities, and the aquarium arefounded.)Fiscal Year 1990
● 1990: Three curatorial staff are hired.
● December 1990: The basic plan of the Prefectural Lake Biwa
Museum is adopted.

Fiscal Year 1996
● 1996: Nine curatorial staff are hired.
● April 1996: The Shiga Prefectural Lake Biwa Museum isestablished. The museum's logo is adopted.
● October 1996: Opening ceremony, preview, and opening to
the public take place.

Fiscal Year 1991
● 1991: Five curatorial staff are hired.
● June l991: The task forces of the Preparatory Committee for
the Construction of the Lake Biwa Museum are disolved anda project team is organized. (The project team is dissolved inMay, 199 .)● August l991: The Exhibit Plan Review Team is founded in
the Shiga Prefectural Government. (The team is dissolved in
March, 1992.)● The basic designs of the museum's exhibits are determined.

Fiscal Year 1997
● April 1997: Jurisdiction is transferred from the Board of
Education to the Department of Lake Biwa and theEnvironment.
● April 1997: Three new curatorial staff are hired.
● June 1997: The International Conference on Ancient Lakes is
held.
● August 1997: Total number of visitors reaches one million.

Fiscal Year 1992
● 1992: Five curatorial staff are hired．
● April-June l992: The outdoor nature-observation program islaunched.
● September 1992: The basic construction plan is determined.
● October 1992: The design of the exhibits, construction work,
and information system design are started. The museum's
administration policy is deliberated until March, 199 .

Fiscal Year 1998
● July 1998: The Long- and Intermediate-term Examination
Committee for the Lake Biwa Museum is organized.
● September 1998: A memorandum of cooperation is
concluded between the Muséum Nationale d’Histoire
Naturelle, Paris, France, and the Lake Biwa Museum.
● November 1998: Total number of visitors reaches two18

million.

Fiscal Year 2013
● November 201 : Signing of cooperation agreement between
the Hunan Museum in China and the Lake Biwa Museum.
● March 2014: "The Basic Plan of Creating the New Lake
Biwa Museum" is adopted.

Fiscal Year 2000
● November 2000: Total number of visitors reaches three
million.
Fiscal Year 2002
● September 2002: Agreement for a research exchange
program with the Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese
Academy of Science, is concluded.
● November 2002: Total number of visitors reaches four
million.
● December 2002: “Local Area, Whoever, WhereverMuseum” Lake Biwa Museum mid-term plan is issued.

Fiscal Year 2014
● June 2014: Designs of the exhibits of the first stage of therenewal (Exhibition Room C and Aquarium) are started.
● September 2014: Signing of the cooperation agreement
between the Baikal Museum, Russia, and the Lake Biwa
Museum.
● March 2014: Total number of visitors reaches nine million.
● March 2014: Signing of the cooperation agreement between
the Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences
and the Lake Biwa Museum.

Fiscal Year 2003
● July 200 : Cooperation agreement with the Muséum
National d’Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France, is renewed.

Fiscal Year 2015
● April 2015: Signing of the cooperation agreement between
Seian University of Art and Design, and the Lake Biwa
Museum.
● July 2015: Contracts for building, electric equipment andmachinery construction of the first renewal are made. (Theconstruction period is 15 July 2015, to 0 June 2016.)

Fiscal Year 2004
● March 2005: Total number of visitors reaches fivemillion.
● March 2005: Lake Biwa Museum’s mid- to long-termplan for the “Local Area, Whoever, Wherever Museum”
plan is initiated.

Fiscal Year 2016
● April 2016: "New Lake Biwa Museum" Office is established.
● June 2016: Start of preliminary design for the second phaseof renewal (Treetop Walk), ends October 2016.
● June 2016: Start of a geological survey for the second
renewal (Treetop Walk), ends September 2016.
● June 2016: Second stage renewal (exchange spaces) exhibit
design started, ends March 2017.
● July 2016: First stage of the renewal opens (preview, opening
ceremony, and opening to the public).

Fiscal Year 2006
● October 2006: Ceremony to celebrate the 10th anniversary of
the opening of the museum is held.
Fiscal Year 2007
● May 2007: Total number of visitors reaches six million.
Fiscal Year 2009
● September 2009: Total number of visitors reaches sevenmillion.

Fiscal Year 2017
● August 2017: Total number of visitors reaches 10 million.

Fiscal Year 2010
● April 2010: Shiga Prefecture Environmental Learning Centeris relocated into the Lake Biwa Museum’s Public Services
Center.

Fiscal Year 2018
● June 2018: Third stage of renewal (Exhibition Room A,
Exhibition Room B) exhibit design starts, ends March 2019.
● July 2018: Second stage renewal opens (preview, opening
ceremony, opening to the public).
● November 2018: Treetop Walk opens.

Fiscal Year 2011
● October 2011: 15th anniversary of the Museum’s opening
takes place.

Fiscal Year 2019● October 2019: Total number of visitors reaches 11 million.

Fiscal Year 2012
● April 2012: "New Lake Biwa Museum" Preparation Office isestablished.
● June 2012: Total number of visitors reaches eight million.
● March 201 : "The Vision of Creating the New Lake Biwa
Museum" is adopted.

Fiscal Year 2020
● October 2020 Third stage of renewal opens (preview, grandopening ceremony, and opening to the public).
Fiscal Year 2021
● October 2021: Symposium commemorating the 25th
anniversary of the museum's opening.

19

XI

Facilities

l. Construction and Design
The Lake Biwa Museum was designed in a manner that represents the museum's theme, ”Toward greaterappreciation of the lake.” The design was also intended to win the endorsement of the residents of Shiga
Prefecture as a community asset. The construction was undertaken according to the following specificprinciples：(1) Architecture of lasting value that contributes to the pride of the local community• Representative of the characteristics of the local community.
• Easy management and low maintenance costs.
• Flexible design to accommodate possible future alteration.
(2) People-friendly architecture.
• Consideration for the safety of people with disabilities and the elderly.
Exhibition rooms: The rooms, including the floor and audio devices, are specifically designed to beaccessible to physically handicapped and elderly people, taking into account their safe movement,smooth operation on wheelchairs, and ease of access to the exhibitions.
Other indoor facilities: Facilities such as the lavatories, telephones, elevators and drinking fountains aredesigned for safe use.
Outdoor facilities: The paved roads, including approaches to the museum and paths to the outdoor
exhibitions, are designed for safe walking.
• Clear, simple floor layout.
• Spacious, relaxing floor arrangement.
(3) Environmentally friendly architecture.
• Environmentally conscious architecture that matches the surroundings.
• Resource-conserving and low-polluting construction:(Effective use of natural and solar energy as well as measures against non-point source pollution and useof rainwater)
Insulation: Construction of a roof garden; use of wood-woven cement panels for exterior walls; drawing
of external air into the pits in the framework of the foundations (to cool down the ground and toincrease the warming effect).
Solar heat and light: Solar heat collected through a vacuum-type solar thermal collector installed on theroof of the building is used as a subsidiary heat source in the museum building; sunlight reflected byautomatic solar light tracking devices is used to introduce natural light into the aquarium exhibits.
Rainwater: Rainwater collected from the roof and the grounds of the museum is used to flush the toilets.
This system prevents the direct entry of nutrients (non-point source pollution) together with rainwaterflow into Lake Biwa.
(Utilization of recycled materials)
Used solid concrete is smashed and reutilized.
Sludge removed from the bottom of the lake and from sewage treatment plants is processed into slugs,
then mixed with concrete as an aggregate, which is then used to fabricate secondary products. Those
used in the construction of the museum include exhaust and venting pipes, U-shape gutters, andcurved stones.
Interlocking blocks are used on the building exterior and in the drainage works.
(4) Architecture that enhances the lakeside environment.
• Harmony with the surrounding environment that enhances the aesthetic value of the lakeside scenery.
• Exploitation of the geographical features of the lakeside area and utilization of the lakeside landscape.
• Large roof modeled on the hull of the old cargo boat, “Maruko-bune”.
2. Outline of Premises and Facilities(1) Address: 1091 Oroshimo-cho, Kusatsu-shi, Shiga Prefecture, 525-0001(2) Site Area: 42,4 4 m2
(3) Buildings:(a) Main Building: Reinforced concrete construction, with some steel and steel-framed reinforced
concrete construction. Two stories above ground and one story below.

20Building area: 17,512 m2.
(b) Aquarium building: Reinforced concrete construction, with some steel and steel-framed reinforced
concrete construction. Two stories.
Building area: 6,474 m2.
(c) Annex: Reinforced concrete construction. Two stories.
Building area: ,017.7m2.
Total 27,004.7m2.
(4) Height: 15.0 meters above ground level.
(5) Breakdown of Building Area（in m2）
MuseumAquarium
Administration area
982
4
Exhibition area
4,122
1,984
Public Service area
6,750
0
Research area
1,604
188
Storage area
4,647
5
Other areas
4,596
1,745
Subtotal
22,701
4, 04
Total
27,005 m2(6) Outdoor Facilities:① Facilities Related to Exhibition / Observation / Experience.
1. Ancient Forest and Forests of the Jomon and Yayoi Periods.
2. Life and Culture Laboratory: Total area 265.8m2.
. Rice and Vegetable Fields.
4. Ecological Observation Pond/Ecological Observation Waterway② Conservation and Breeding Center of Fishes: total area 251.7 m2.
③ Experimental Facilities
1. Experimental channel.
2. Experimental pond.
④ Other Outdoor Facilities
1. Streams.
2. Bird-watching Point.
. Parking: business use (20 spaces), people with disabilities (12 spaces), bicycles (50 spaces).
4. Outdoor lunch space "Umikko Hiroba": 450 m2.

21

(Unit: m2)（7）List of Room Areas
Exhibition Rooms
MuseumExhibition Room A

886 Botanical Collection Room

Exhibition Room C

1,472 Geological Collection Room

Public services andinformation

Research Section
362 Cooperative Research Laboratory

87 Grand Hall

589 Laboratory for Guest Researchers

Grand Hall Preparation
62
Room

52

577 Research Meeting Room

60 Effects Room

17

Special Exhibition Room

555 Environment Collection Room

103 Photo Studio

Exhibition Preparation Room

65 Ethnology Collection Room 1

534 Photography Dark Room

Exhibition Storage Area

56 Ethnology Collection Room 2

599 Electron Microscope Room

Discovery Room

202 Archaeological Collection Room

228 Darkroom for Electron Microscope

Search & Discover Room

331 Special Collection Room

303 Geology Laboratory

Viewing & Exhibition Space

Aquarium

886 Zoological Collection Room

Exhibition Room B

Aquarium (outdoor area of 252m2 excluded)

MuseumCollections Section

85

5
163
166
51
57

Room in front ofSpecial Collection Room

45

32 Library

481

Liquid-preserved Collection
Room

Zoological Specimens Preparation
456
Room

50 Media Room118

Frozen Collection Room

31 Terrestrial Ecology Laboratory

70 Museum Shop

115

Refrigerated Collection RoomBotanical Specimens Preparation
21
Room

47 Entrance etc.

1,457Film and Photography Collection
Room

188 Terrestrial Ecology Laboratory

92 Restaurant275

Temporary Storage Room

95 Sterilized Room

20 Cafeteria

114

Room in front of Temporary
Storage Room

34 Artificial Environment Room

41 Annex

3018

Truck Yard, Loading Bay

352 Workshop

39

Stock Room76 Preservation Laboratory

58

Fumigation Room

54 Chemical Analysis Laboratory

59

1,847 Aquarium Temporary Storage

Geological Specimens Preparation
Room

SimultaneousTranslation Booth
Seminar Rooms 1, 2
13
&3
Discovery
44
Laboratories 1 & 2Home Science
13
Laboratory
Exchange Rooms 1
104
&2

330

Instrumental Analysis Laboratory

39

Chemical Storage Room

20

Social Science Room

84

Ancient Document Management
Room

41

Archival Laboratory

58

Historical Materials Laboratory

84

Soft X-ray Room

16

Physical Chemistry Laboratory

47

Field Equipment Room

66

Rock-cutting Room

12

Systematics Laboratory

79

Preservation Treatment Room

18

Storage

64

47 Aquarium Laboratory48

Special Exhibition Room97 Truck Yard, Loading Bay

94 Fish Management Room

69

Special Exhibition Preparation
Room

40 Fish Tank Room

120 Aquarium Studio

32

Dried Food Storage

Experimental photography
14
darkroom

12

Frozen Food Storage

17 Equipment Storage

19

Food Preparation Room

28 Changing Room

8

Live Food Room

33

4,122
1,984

22

4,647

1,604

353

188

6750

(Unit: m2)（7）List of Room Areas (Continued)
General Affairs Department
MuseumDirector General’s
Room
Vice Director Room 1
Vice Director Room 2
Special Reception
Room

Common-use Facilities

Total

Corridors, Stairs, Elevators, Rest
Rooms, Equipment shafts etc.
Air Conditioning Machine Room,
18
Heat Source Machine Room,
Electrical Room, Generator
43
Room, Water Supply Pump Room
etc.
57
54

Other Outdoor Facilities
Porch
Staff Parking Area
Bicycle Parking
Hazardous Waste
Storage

Reception Room

37

Washing area for large
items

Administration andCurator’s Room359

Storage Tanks of Aquatic
Organisms

Conference Room84

Rooftop Square

Hot Water Supply
Room

14

Storage

102

Disaster prevention
monitoring center

57

Resting Room24

Nursing Room

22

Women’s Changing
Room

24

Waiting Rooms 1 & 2

75

Image Data Adjusting
Room

12

Aquarium Lodging Room
Bathroom etc.

Life and Culture
Laboratory
266
Outdoor lunch space"Umikko Hiroba"
450
etc.

Conservation andBreeding Center

19 Keepers’ Space
15 Corridors, Stairs, Elevators

252

Equipment Shafts, Rest Rooms
Machinery Rooms, Pump Rooms
etc.

Museum982

4,596

19,683Aquarium

34

1,745

4,304

Total

23,987

3. Construction Schedule(1) Basic design of exhibits: fiscal year 1991.
Basic design of building: fiscal year 1992.
(2) Final design of exhibits and building: fiscal year 1992.
(3) Construction: fiscal year 199 ~1996.
(The ceremony of laying the cornerstone: January 29, 1994 / Completion of construction: March, 1996)

23

4. Construction Expenditures for the Lake Biwa Museum (fiscal years 1990~1995)
Proposed construction budget

Amount (thousands of yen)

Construction ofbuildings, exterior andoutdoor exhibition
facilities

Construction cost

14,970,037

Design andmanagement cost

470,240

Exhibits

Cost of exhibits

15,440,277

4,291,819
4,562,910

Design andmanagement costs
Artifact research

271,091

Commissioned research
244,892

Production andpurchase of artifacts

Equipment and supplies

Commissioned
production andpurchases

244,892

915,463997,679

Book purchases

82,216

Construction equipment
and supplies

733,631

Total

21,979,389

24

733,631

5. Reconstruction Expenditures for Exhibits and Communication Spaces(Fiscal years 2012~2016)
Contents

Amount (thousands of yen)

Establishment of vision Fiscal 2012

Consignment of establishment of vision

Establishment of basic

Fiscal 2013

Consignment of establishment of plan

Fiscal 2014

Consignment of design of exhibits andplan

construction

Fiscal 2015
Renewal, first stage

Fiscal 2016

56,281
283,855

Construction work

412,895

Work management

8,887

Construction of exhibits

506,847

Construction work

219,650

Work management

3,595
1,492,010

Fiscal 2015stage

16,989Construction of exhibits

Total

Renewal, second

5,460

Fiscal 2016

Consignment of establishment of plan
(Tree-crown trail)
Consignment of design of exhibits andconstruction, civil engineering

Total

2,916

54,49757,413Fiscal 2018

Final design

31,500Fiscal 2019

Construction of exhibits

225,300

Fiscal 2020

Construction of exhibits

492,117

Renewal, third stage

Total

748,917
Total

2,320,789

6. Amount of Donations for Renewal of Exhibitions
Year

Amount (thousands of yen)

Fiscal 2015

34,766

Fiscal 2016

12,830Fiscal 201721,287

Fiscal 2018

19,860Fiscal 201922,260Fiscal 2020

2,990

25

7. Museum Map

8. Floor Plan: Basement26

9. Floor Plan: First Floor

27

10. Floor Plan: Second Floor

Room C:Room B:28

1. Floor Plan: Annex

29

XII

VISITOR INFORMATION

1 Museum Hours: 9: 0 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.（Visitors may enter until 4: 0 p.m.）
2 Museum Schedule−Open every day except as follows:・Mondays (unless a public holiday and during summer and winter school breaks).
・The year-end and New Year holidays (December 29 to January ).
・Other days designated by the museum Director General.
3 Admission fees
• Permanent exhibitions High school and university students 450 yen ( 60 yen), adults 800 yen (640yen). Prices in () are for groups of 20 or more people (each).
• Annual admission ticket “Club LBM” High school and university students 900 yen, adults 1,600 yen
Holders can view the permanent exhibition and the special exhibition as many times as desired for
one year after purchase.
• Special exhibition: Fees are determined for each event.
• Permanent exhibitions are free for preschoolers, elementary and junior high school students, people
with disabilities, and people over 65 who live in the prefecture. (Please check for details.)
4 Parking fees
Category

Fee per vehicle

Large vehicle

1,700円

Micro-bus (11 to 29 seats)

1,100円Ordinary car

550円

Motorcycles

200円

Note, in some cases, exemption may be granted according to the Law for the Welfare of Persons with
Physical Disabilities, so please contact us.
5 Museum Facilities• Meals and refreshments are available in the restaurant and cafeteria.
• The Museum Shop sells publications and original museum products.
• Rooms for nursing infants and for visitors who are feeling unwell are available.
• If visitors purchase an admission ticket and use the parking lot, we provide a service ticket at thereception.
• Persons with disabilities can use the disabled parking lot in front of the museum free of charge.
6 Access to the Museum• Transfer to the Biwako Line from JR Shinkansen "Kyoto Station" or "Maibara Station", get off at"Kusatsu Station" or "Moriyama Station" and take a bus or taxi
• By bus, take the Ohmi Railway Bus bound for "Lake Biwa Museum" from the West Exit of JR
Kusatsu Station (approximately 25 minutes).
• By taxi, about 20 minutes from JR Kusatsu Station West Exit, or about 20 minutes from Moriyama
Station West Exit
• By road: Exit the Meishin Expressway at the Ritto Interchange and drive along the Ritto- Shinanaka
Route and the Lake Shore (Sazanami) Road (approximately 25 minutes). Alternatively, exit the
Meishin Expressway at the Seta Nishi or Seta Higashi Interchange and drive along the Lake Shore(Sazanami) Road (approximately 0 minutes).

30

●For Information
General Affairs Division, General Affairs Department
Lake Biwa Museum
1091 Oroshimo-cho, Kusatsu-shi, Shiga 525-0001, Japan
Telephone: +81-77-568-4811
Fax: +81-77-568-4850
Internet Home Page: http://www.biwahaku.jp/

31

A Profile of the Lake Biwa Museum
1st edition June 1997
2nd edition March 1999
rd
edition February 2002
4th edition July 200
5th edition January 2007
6th edition March 2015
7th edition March 2017
8th edition February 202 (PDF)
Published by Lake Biwa Museum
Lake Biwa Museum
1091 Oroshimo-cho, Kusatsu-shi, Shiga 525-0001, Japan
Telephone: +81-77-568-4811 Fax: +81-77-568-4850

32