At the Okayama University Institute of Plant Science and Resources, located not far from the center of Kurashiki City, a public event is held every May.
This event allows both children and adults to enjoy learning about the fascinating aspects of plants, starting with an introduction to the research results from the institute.
The 2026 event (the 8th year of Reiwa) will be held on Saturday, May 9, and we will introduce its content.
About the Public Event at Okayama University Institute of Plant Science and Resources
The Okayama University Institute of Plant Science and Resources holds a public event every year to widely share its research results and to foster familiarity with local plants. In 2026, it will be held on Saturday, May 9.
This year's theme is "Come, See, Discover!! Plants are Fascinating." On the day of the event, there will be many activities for both adults and children, including presentations of research results, experiments and observations related to local plants, and tours of the institute's fields.
What is the Okayama University Institute of Plant Science and Resources?
The Okayama University Institute of Plant Science and Resources was established in 1914, originating from the "Ohara Agricultural Research Institute," founded by Ohara Magosaburo, who is also known for establishing the Ohara Museum of Art. The institute has a history of over 110 years.
In 1951, it was transferred to Okayama University, and as indicated by its name, the institute primarily conducts fundamental research on staple grains and crops such as wheat and rice.
Interview with the Person in Charge
We spoke with Associate Professor Tomonori Shinya, who is involved in the preparation of this event, about the highlights and ways to enjoy the event.
Please tell us the details of the events that will be held on the day.
Shinya (no honorifics)
To help participants feel closer to the research content, we are planning various activities divided into four main categories: "Observation," "Experiments/Experiences," "Exhibitions," and "Tours." While some details are still undecided, I will introduce a few.
In the observation section using microscopes, participants can see "microorganisms swimming alongside plants" and "chromosomes of familiar plants."
For experiments and experiences, we plan to conduct experiments such as "staining the roots of rice and barley to compare the differences in iron content" and "extracting pigments from plants."
Regarding exhibitions, we will showcase valuable materials held by the institute.
From the approximately 100,000 plant specimens stored in the institute's herbarium, we plan to display a selection of historical seed specimens collected by the first director, Dr. Mantaro Kondo.
Additionally, related materials will be displayed at the attached museum (library) under the theme "Plants, Insects, and Humans: Using and Battling Insects."
We also plan to hold a tour of the barley fields, which many people participate in every year.
In addition to these, we have various other activities planned. For the latest information, please refer to the event's special page.
What is the Challenge♪ Quiz Rally event?
Shinya
This event involves solving quizzes while touring several exhibition areas (about 6 to 7 locations) within the facility, allowing participants to efficiently explore the entire exhibition.
Even if you do not answer all the quizzes correctly, you can receive "wonderful gifts (prizes)" if you get a few right.
Last year's prizes included original goods from the institute (such as pens) and plant seeds (sunflower, glass jam corn, and balloon vine).
This event allows participants of all ages to experience the world of plant science while having fun, so please feel free to join us as part of your exploration.
What are the points to note when attending?
Shinya
For those coming by car, please be aware of the strict adherence to the parking lot opening time (9:30 AM). The street in front of the institute (Kurashiki Chuo Street) has heavy traffic, so please refrain from waiting before the opening.
Every year, the institute gets very crowded in the morning, but the time just before the end of the afternoon (after 2 PM) tends to be relatively less crowded, so for those who want to take their time, visiting later in the day is recommended.
Additionally, while there are no cafeterias or shops within the institute, a rest area (Magosaburo Lounge) where eating and drinking is allowed is available for your use.
Finally, please give a message to the readers.
Shinya
We are preparing for a wide range of generations, from the elderly to families with children and students, to enjoy the event.
Free admission, no reservations required, and enjoyable even without specialized knowledge make this a public event, so please feel free to stop by as if you were taking a stroll.
Moreover, the staff and graduate students who will explain the exhibits, experiments, and experience corners on the day are those who are conducting cutting-edge plant science research at this institute, and many international students will also participate.
If you have any interest in plants or research content, please feel free to ask any questions. One of the great attractions of this public event is the opportunity to talk directly with researchers, which is not something you encounter often.
With over 110 years of history, we invite you to experience the fascinating world of plants and microorganisms. We look forward to welcoming everyone.
Conclusion
This is a rare opportunity to enter a research institute that is usually not accessible, held once a year. If you have even a slight interest in plants, you will find this event enjoyable regardless of age.
The institute is located just a few minutes' walk from the Bikan Historical Area, so as mentioned in the interview, you can enjoy it as a casual stop along with nearby sightseeing and strolling.
Why not rediscover the fascination of plants at this historic institute?
Data for the 8th Year of Reiwa Public Event at Okayama University Institute of Plant Science and Resources
![[May 9 (Sat) Event] 8th Year of Reiwa Public Event at Okayama University Institute of Plant Science and Resources - Let's Experience the Fascination of Plants](https://media.kuratoco.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/24092359/7Y6A8944.jpg)
| Name | 8th Year of Reiwa Public Event at Okayama University Institute of Plant Science and Resources |
|---|---|
| Date | May 9, 2026 (Saturday) 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Opening: 9:30 AM) |
| Location | 2-20-1 Chuo, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Admission Fee (Tax Included) | Free |
| Website | Okayama University Institute of Plant Science and Resources |
