Explore a 'Tropical Rainforest' at Chiba Zoo After $4M Makeover

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The Animal Science Museum at Chiba Zoological Park reopened on March 29 after undergoing its first major renovation in 40 years. The museum's new theme focuses on tropical rainforests, which are rich in biodiversity.

Visitors can immerse themselves in a sensory experience with sounds, smells, and visuals that bring the rainforest to life. They can also gain a deeper understanding of the environmental challenges facing these vital ecosystems. The museum aims to become a popular destination for people of all ages, sparking curiosity about nature.

Since its opening in 1985, the museum had not undergone significant updates, leading to outdated exhibits and scientific information. To address this, the museum closed in January 2024 for renovations, which cost a total of ¥587.4 million JPY ($4,022,000 USD).

As part of the renovation, staff traveled to Borneo Island, which spans Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei, to gather environmental data. They closely observed local plants and incorporated this research into the museum's new exhibits. The sounds of birds and insects were recorded on-site to enhance the immersive experience.

*Tropical forest of Borneo (Malaysia). Rich in biodiversity, the possibility of discovering yet unknown species remains in these forests.*

Main Exhibits and Features

Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by an 11.7-meter (about 38-feet) replica of a tree from the Dipterocarpaceae family, with a meticulously recreated bark texture. In the revamped bird hall, visitors can see the world’s largest pigeon, the Crowned Pigeon, and a sloth, the only one housed in a Japanese zoo. The hall also features a tropical rainforest monsoon, which occurs daily.

In the "Forest Floor World," visitors can learn about soil decomposition in tropical rainforests through dramatic ceiling projections, creating the sensation of being beneath the soil. A new exhibit explains how plants expand their distribution by utilizing animals, with a z9.4-meter-wide video wall. Visitors can also experience the smell of the Rafflesia, a flower that attracts flies with its scent of decaying meat.

The museum also showcases animals from West Africa, including the western gorilla.

Environmental Awareness

While tropical rainforests support diverse plant and animal life, environmental destruction is advancing, causing habitat loss for many species. The museum highlights the benefits humans have received from nature, alongside the history of environmental degradation.

Director Issei Kaburaki emphasized the zoo's mission to raise awareness about the natural environment: "I hope this facility encourages visitors to understand how environmental destruction is displacing animals and degrading biodiversity, leading to changes in their behavior."

This report was first published on Japan 2 Earth, a JAPAN Forward website featuring Japan's initiatives on the SDGs.