What comes to mind when you think of a museum? Many of you probably imagine a place where you quietly view exhibits. But the Kankaku(Senses) Museum, which opened year 2000 in Iwadeyama, does not fit this image at all. This facility, which has been labeled a sensory wellness facility, offers many exhibits and devices for stimulating the human senses. It is a rather unique, hands-on museum. The exhibits can be separated into two categories. There are areas called "Dialogue zones" where your senses are actively stimulated, and areas called "Monologue zones" where you can quietly enter into your own world. Two dialogue zones are the Forest of Darkness, where you enter a dark room and, as you walk along, search for objects with your hands, and the Space and Sound, where you can actually feel the movement of sound. An example of a monologue zone is The Fragrance Forest. As you walk among fantastical paper-art forms, you are surrounded by the natural fragrances of Iwadeyama. Being able to touch and to enter into exhibits makes for an unusual experience. the museum is popular among both adults and children. Some people spend a long time in just one room and many people return to the museum again and again. When you have time, please go and experience the museum for yourself.

◆Dialogue Zone/Is an area focused on physical sensation, where visitors are invited to experience virtual dialogues with the creators through the exhibits.

◆Monologue Zone/ Is an area focused on mental sensation, where the exhibits and produced space stimulate the imagination of visitors, help them gradually forget usual sensation, and invite them into the world of meditation.