Preview afternoon stone searching with parents through jade rough stones and mineral displays
About this spot
The core facility of Itoigawa Geopark, known as a "stone museum." Magnificent jade rough stones and specimens of minerals and fossils from around the world line the halls, where you can easily learn about the Fossa Magna and the story of the birth of the Japanese archipelago through videos and models. If you preview what jade looks like and where to find it before the afternoon beach hunt, your stone searching becomes much more genuine. With many exhibits useful for identifying stone names, this museum is perfect for finding independent research project themes.
Tips
Located within Miyama Park with spacious free parking; the interior has few steps and is easy to navigate with a stroller. Some days (mainly weekends and holidays), curators offer a stone identification service for stones you've found—check the official website in advance for event dates. Mineral merchandise at the museum shop is popular as souvenirs for children.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 2 hours. Early morning right after opening offers leisurely viewing.
Access & map
〒941-0056 Itoigawa, Niigata Prefecture, 1-chome Ichinomiya 1313
Model course featuring this spot
Itoigawa: Fossa Magna Museum and Jade Coast
Niigata
Explore features & model courses
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