Kaleidoscope Museum of Kyoto

Highlight

The classroom where visitors can make original kaleidoscopes ? easy but thorough lesson that illuminates on all the mechanisms

An art weaving light with mirrors

The kaleidoscope was invented in 1816 by the Scottish scientist Sir David Brewster.
In a mere three years from invention, the kaleidoscope found its way to Edo Japan, where it has delighted generations ever since.
The museum is home to some 50 diverse kaleidoscopes that are all on display permanently. These unique prisms of color include electrically driven ones, others made of rare materials and another in the shape of a geisha. And, visitors are welcome to try any of them out to enjoy the amazing range of patterns zooming out in front of the eye. There are no detailed manuals on hand, but staffs are more than glad to explain the specifications and handling methods.
Apart from the “light show” available from the exhibits, visitors can participate in a kaleidoscope construction taster, available at any time, where they will get the chance to make kaleidoscopes. In addition, once or twice a month, a kaleidoscope maker is invited to the museum, to run a very popular special workshop, where participants make their own highly unique kaleidoscopes.
The museum also has a cafeteria where visitors can relax and chat.