Plant Stories and the Future: Special Talk Event at Miraikan

A special talk event titled "Plants Have Stories: A World of Micro and Macro for the Future" will be held at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) in Koto-ku, Tokyo, on Saturday, August 1, 2026. This event invites two researchers who received the 20th "Midori Prize" in Reiwa 8 (2026) to explore multifaceted stories surrounding plants, from the mysterious fertilization process to macro perspectives on rare plant conservation.

Part 1: Unraveling the Mystery of Plant Fertilization

The first part features Tetsuya Higashiyama, Professor at the Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo. Under the theme "Seeing Life: The Challenge to Unravel the Mystery of Plant Fertilization," he will discuss his groundbreaking success in observing and filming the fertilization process in plants for the first time in the world, revealing details that remained unknown for 140 years. The event will showcase this journey through special footage. A mini-workshop will also allow participants to dissect and observe the plant "Torenia" under a microscope, offering an experience of the plant's micro-world.

Part 2: Conserving Plants for the Future

The second part features Yuji Isagi, Professor Emeritus at Kyoto University, who will speak on "Plant Stories Told by Genes and the Baton of Conservation for the Future." Professor Isagi leads research using cutting-edge scientific technologies like gene and genome analysis to preserve Japan's endangered wild plants for the future. This talk will delve into the value of plants, understood through genetic information beyond mere numbers or appearance, and discuss how the baton of conservation can be passed on.

Event Overview

• Date: Saturday, August 1, 2026, 14:00 - 15:30
• Venue: Miraikan, 3rd Floor Hub Space
• Target Audience: Recommended for 5th graders and above (adults welcome)
• Capacity: Approximately 40 people
• Admission Fee: Museum admission fee only (Special exhibitions and Dome Theater require separate tickets)
• Application: Advance application required (lottery), Miraikan ID registration necessary
• Other: Subtitles will be provided using a speech-to-text captioning app

Access Information

• Address: 2-3-6 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo
• Nearest Stations: Yurikamome Tokyo Big Sight Station, Rinkai Line Kokusai-Tenjijo Station

This event offers a valuable opportunity to deeply contemplate the mysteries of plant life and its future inheritance. Interested individuals should visit the official website for details and application procedures. Please check the official website for the latest information on ticket availability, including whether same-day tickets will be sold.