Family examining a Mount Fuji terrain model and volcanic rock displays inside a forest-side science institute

Mt. Fuji Science Institute 2026: Free Exhibits and August Forest Walks

Travel News Watch

Information checked: August 13, 2026, 8:31 AM JST.

The Yamanashi Prefectural Mt. Fuji Science Institute offers a low-cost indoor and outdoor stop in Fujiyoshida. Visitors can use the free science exhibits and library, then add a guided forest walk on selected dates if weather and capacity allow.

Short answerThe public facilities are free and open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last admission at 4:30 PM. The 2026 wildlife-photo exhibition runs through December 20, and remaining summer forest-walk dates include August 13-16, 23, 29, and 30; phone reservations are recommended.

Key Facts For Travelers

Affected areaYamanashi Prefectural Mt. Fuji Science Institute, Fujiyoshida.
Public hours9:00 AM-5:00 PM; last admission 4:30 PM.
AdmissionFree for the public exhibition facilities.
Remaining summer forest walksAugust 13-16, 23, 29, and 30, 2026; weather or operational changes are possible.

What You Can See Indoors

The Fuji Science Lab introduces the mountain’s formation, volcanic activity, plants, animals, and relationship with people through displays supervised by institute researchers. The Environment Information Center provides a quieter library-style space for visitors who want to go deeper.

The 2026 special exhibition, ‘Mt. Fuji Research Institute Wildlife Encyclopedia,’ uses photographs contributed through a biodiversity project and images taken by researchers. The official schedule lists the exhibition from April 25 through December 20.

How the Forest Walk Works

The institute’s free guided walks explore the Kenmarubi forest around the research grounds. Advance phone booking is prioritized, and the institute recommends contacting the education team before visiting because weather and other conditions can change or cancel a walk.

The indoor exhibits remain the more reliable part of the plan. If the walk is cancelled, use the science lab and exhibition instead of entering forest routes independently without checking local conditions.

Traveler Actions

  • Call the education team before traveling if the guided forest walk is the main reason for your visit.
  • Arrive before 4:30 PM so the last-admission cutoff does not shorten your visit.
  • Wear closed walking shoes and carry rain protection for the outdoor route.
  • Use the free indoor exhibits as the backup when weather affects the forest walk.
  • Follow staff instructions and current wildlife or trail notices on the day.

Official Sources

Update History

  • August 13, 2026: Created from the institute’s official public hours, free-admission information, 2026 special-exhibition dates, remaining summer walk calendar, and reservation guidance.