Imaginus, a science facility directly managed by Congrès Inc., has opened in Suginami ward in Tokyo.
Imaginus, which claims to be a “Suginami science lab for building the future” and a “next-generation science education facility”, uses the resources from the site of former Suginami 4th Elementary School. While the outside maintains the appearance of school grounds, once inside, visitors can enjoy the world-famous science show, “Nutty Scientists”, as it premiers in Japan for the first time, as well as experience full-scale science experiments and casual craft activities.
Families from Suginami were invited to the opening event held on October 7, and Suginami Ward Mayor Satoko Kishimoto and Congrès President Noriko Takeuchi joined local children to participate in the Nutty Scientists show. Mayor Kishimoto stated in regards to the facility, “I think people can enjoy an entire day here. I believe that the name ‘Imaginus’ has various meanings, such as imagination, but it also includes ‘Suginami’. I’m glad that we were thought of in this way.” She also spoke about the facility’s main theme, science. “It has an image of being difficult, but science is truly precious to us.” President Takeuchi added, “Sometimes it is said that we are moving away from science, but I want to use this facility to convey: Science is interesting! And fun! Various programs have been arranged for that purpose.”
President Takeuchi expressed her confidence that adults could enjoy Imaginus as well, continuing, “I believe that there is also some nostalgia with the stage being set at an elementary school, so please come visit. There is an abundance of content that even adults can enjoy in various ways, such as the lab, the café, and the science show.”
The facility will have meeting areas that can be rented out for exhibitions and sports events, as well as a video studio for filming and livestreaming. In regards to the possibility of use for MICE, President Takeuchi stated, “There are an assembly hall and a theater in the facility, so the building could be used as a unique venue, as well as for hands-on tours. I feel as though Imaginus is an interesting establishment that can be used for events that aim to foster engagement and motivation, in addition to those for team-building. I am looking forward to hosting various types of MICE programs and projects, so I would like to collect ideas.”
There is also a special exhibition area within the establishment, in which the manufacturing company TASKO is currently holding “Manufacturing Work Exhibition: From the Desks of TASKO” until March 7, 2024.
Admission into Imaginus is free, and prices vary for the experiences and show viewings. The staff aims to bring in 300,000 visitors per year.
