The Fuji was specifically designed with a hull shape that allowed it to ride up onto ice and break it using its own weight.
During its 18 years of service, the ship completed 18 round trips to Antarctica, covering over 500,000 nautical miles.
The ship served as the primary transport for the Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition (JARE) before being replaced by the Shirase class vessels.
The interior contains wax figures that recreate the daily life of researchers and crew members to give an authentic sense of scale and atmosphere.
The ship's helicopter deck is still accessible and provides an elevated view of the Nagoya Port harbor area.
The vessel remains in its original configuration from its final mission in 1983, providing a time-capsule effect for visitors.
It is the first ship in Japan to be permanently preserved as a museum ship in a specialized land-based concrete dock.
The Antarctic Museum and Former Research Ship Fuji is a decommissioned icebreaker permanently moored at Nagoya's Garden Pier, serving as a floating museum dedicated to Japanese Antarctic exploration. The vessel, which operated from 1965 to 1983, represents the second generation of Japan's Antarctic research ships. Visitors can walk the decks and explore preserved interior spaces, including the bridge, crew cabins, and laboratories. The facility features life-sized dioramas that recreate life and research activities at Showa Station. Displayed artifacts include original equipment used during expeditions and detailed records of the vessel's maritime history. The museum provides direct insight into the technical challenges of navigating the Southern Ocean. It functions as a public educational site maintained by the Nagoya Port Authority. The site integrates maritime history with scientific discovery in a landlocked harbor setting.
From the bow of the ship looking back toward the bridge, or from the dockside to capture the entire red-hulled profile of the vessel.
Check the deck surfaces carefully, as the metal flooring can become slippery if it has been raining.
Wear comfortable, flat-soled shoes as the ship contains steep, narrow staircases characteristic of maritime vessels.
Combine this visit with the nearby Nagoya Public Aquarium for a full day of maritime-themed exploration.
Avoid visiting on a rainy day, as much of the walking experience is on outdoor decks that are exposed to the elements.
Closed on Mondays. If a national holiday falls on a Monday, it closes on the following Tuesday.
Visitors are prohibited from touching the wax figures and sensitive navigation equipment; follow signs regarding restricted areas.
