Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Little World Museum of Man is an outdoor museum that displays life-size reproductions of traditional homes and lifestyles from around the world. One of its main features is that visitors can actually see the houses and buildings that have been relocated and restored outdoors, and even go inside to experience the tools and lifestyles of the people.
– Developed with the aim of "preserving folk culture and promoting international understanding," the exhibits are arranged by region and country, allowing you to feel like you've traveled around the world in a short space of time. Other attractions include trying on ethnic costumes, sampling international cuisine, and seasonal ethnic events and workshops.
Although the site is small, the authentic construction of the buildings, the high level of reproduction, and the hands-on programs make it a facility that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Highlights
- World Dwellings: Life-size replicas of traditional houses and villages from Asia, Europe, Africa, Oceania, North and South America. The interior furnishings and everyday items are also worth seeing.
- Try on traditional costumes: This program allows you to take commemorative photos wearing traditional costumes for a fee (fees and time limits vary depending on the country and costume). It is popular with families and couples.
- International Cuisine: The restaurants and food stalls within the park serve local cuisine from around the world. You can also experience the food culture through menus themed around local flavors.
- Events and workshops: Folk dance demonstrations, folk instrument experiences, seasonal events, and special exhibitions are held regularly. Please check the official calendar.
- Photo spots: There are many photogenic spots among the buildings and landscapes of each country, allowing you to take photos that are full of exotic atmosphere.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest stations: Meitetsu Inuyama Station, JR Inuyama Station (both "Inuyama" stations).
–Transportation from the station:
- Bus: Direct buses and local buses run from Inuyama Station to Little World (number of buses varies depending on the day and season). Bus stops include "Little World." For time and operation information, please check the official website or the transport company's timetable.
- Taxi: Approximately 10-20 minutes by taxi from Inuyama Station (depending on road conditions).
- By car: Access from Nagoya via national highways and expressways. Parking is available within the park (fees may apply). As traffic jams can occur, it is recommended to leave early on weekends and long weekends.
– We recommend checking official information in advance to confirm opening hours, closing days, and whether or not there are any special shuttle services.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short course: 1.5 to 2 hours (enough to get a quick look at the main exhibits).
- Standard course: 3-4 hours (including tour of the building, snacks, photography, and simple activities).
- In-depth experience course: Half a day to one day (trying on traditional costumes, multiple workshops and enjoying leisurely meals).
– Visiting the park right after it opens or before it closes will help you avoid the crowds and get around more efficiently.
Nearby spots
– Inuyama Castle: A national treasure, it's recommended to combine a visit with a stroll around the castle town (about a 15-25 minute drive from Little World).
– Meiji Mura Museum: An outdoor museum that preserves and exhibits architecture from the Meiji period. A recommended combination for history buffs.
– Japan Monkey Center: A spot related to animals and nature, perfect for families.
- Inuyama Castle Town: Lined with old townscapes, souvenir shops, and restaurants, you can enjoy strolling and sampling the local cuisine.
- Nearby hot springs and accommodations: It might be a good idea to stay overnight and enjoy sightseeing in Inuyama.
Things to be aware of (crowding, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It tends to get crowded during Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn tourist season, and the New Year holidays. There may be long lines, especially when trying on traditional costumes or at restaurants, so please allow yourself plenty of time.
- Manners: The premises are mostly outdoor exhibits and photography is permitted in many places, but photography may be prohibited in some exhibits or exhibition rooms, so please follow the signs. Follow the instructions of staff when taking photos while trying on costumes or when touching exhibits. Follow the signs regarding whether food and drink can be brought in and where smoking is permitted.
- Footwear and clothing: The park has slopes and unpaved areas, so wear comfortable shoes. Be careful as it can be slippery in rainy weather. Some areas are difficult for strollers and wheelchair users to navigate, so it's a good idea to check access methods and barrier-free information in advance.
- Weather and season precautions: In summer, direct sunlight can be strong and hot, so bring a hat, drink plenty of water, and wear sunscreen. In winter, the wind can be cold, so take precautions against the cold. As most exhibits are outdoors, some of the experience programs may be canceled in bad weather.
- Infectious disease prevention measures: When it is crowded, you may be asked to wear a mask and disinfect your hands. Please follow the notices posted on the official website and at the venue.
(Note) The latest opening hours, admission fees, event information, access timetables, etc. are subject to change. Please check the official website or on-site for the latest information before visiting.
