The Itai-itai Disease museum

Itai-itai Disease is said to be one of the four major pollution-related diseases in Japan. It began in the Jinzu River basin area of Toyama Prefecture around the 1910s and seriously affected the victims, their families, and the local residents. Many difficulties were overcome with the persistent efforts of concerned parties such as the victims’ organizations, the company responsible for the disease, and public administrations.

However, with the passing of time, concerns about the loss of these memories arose due to the scattering of relevant materials and the aging of the people involved. The Toyama Prefectural Itai-itai Disease Museum was opened in April 2012 based on discussions at the Investigative Commission for the Succession of Itai-itai Disease Related Materials, which was established in June 2009 and consists of key figures and representatives of the concerned organizations.

Again, I would like to extend my gratitude to the local residents and to all the other parties who were involved in opening this museum.

This museum allows children of future generations and people of all ages living all over the world to learn easily about “the terror” and “the history” of the disease with dioramas, illustrated books, and images.

This museum showcases advanced efforts for environmental conservation and protection in Toyama Prefecture to promote to all the importance of working towards building a local community and nurturing lifestyles where people value their health and the environment.

We also conduct programs such as readings by storytellers and the production and distribution of supplementary documentation as well as provide a wealth of information on Itai-itai Disease and the Itai-itai Disease Museum in several languages on this website.

For the sake of putting an end to pollution diseases such as Itai-itai Disease forever, it is my wish that every visitor reaffirm the importance of the environment and lead a healthy life. We await your visit.

 

November 2020
Goverrnor of Toyama Prefecture Hachiro Nitta

 

Hours & Admission

• Hours & Admission

Floor Plan

• First Floor
• Second Floor