What is the Extinct media museum Otemachi?

Nestled in Tokyo’s Otemachi district, the Extinct Media Museum is a private institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing media technologies that have become obsolete over time. Founded on the belief that “all media other than paper and stone will become extinct,” the museum offers visitors a tangible connection to the evolution of media devices.

A Hands-On Experience

One of the museum’s distinguishing features is its interactive approach. Unlike traditional museums where exhibits are confined behind glass, the Extinct Media Museum encourages visitors to touch and hold the items on display. This tactile engagement allows guests to appreciate the design, craftsmanship, and functionality of devices from bygone eras.

Diverse Collection

The museum’s collection is extensive, encompassing approximately 3,000 items, with around 1,500 on permanent display. Visitors can explore a variety of devices, including:

• Video Cameras: From 8mm film cameras to early video camcorders, the evolution of home video recording is well represented.
• Still Cameras: The collection includes models like the Japanese-made “Lily” still camera from 1916, offering insights into photographic history.
• Typewriters and Personal Computers: Showcasing the progression from manual typing devices to early personal computing.
• Recording Media: A variety of storage formats, such as Betacam videotapes and floppy disks, highlight the changes in data storage technologies.
• Music Players and Mobile Devices: Early portable music players and mobile phones illustrate the development of personal electronics.

Visitor Information

The museum operates primarily on weekdays from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with occasional weekend openings. Admission is priced at approximately 2,000 yen, with discounts available for students and donors. Visitors are encouraged to check the museum’s official website or social media channels for the most up-to-date information on operating hours and special events.

Community Engagement

The Extinct Media Museum thrives on community involvement, relying heavily on donations to expand its collection. This collaborative effort ensures that a diverse array of obsolete technologies is preserved for future generations. Additionally, the museum offers rental services for its exhibits, providing props for films, music videos, and television programs.

The Extinct Media Museum in Otemachi serves as a bridge between past and present technologies, offering a unique, hands-on experience that educates and inspires. For tech enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious minds alike, the museum provides a rare opportunity to engage directly with the devices that once shaped the modern world.

Image/By Ryuzo Suzuki / Yomiuri Shimbun