The Extinct Media Museum, nestled in the heart of Tokyo, serves as a captivating time capsule, preserving a bygone era of technological innovation. Its collection, a diverse assortment of obsolete media formats and equipment, offers a nostalgic journey through the evolution of communication and entertainment. From the now-archaic Betacam videotapes to the once-ubiquitous floppy disks, the museum’s exhibits evoke a sense of familiarity for older generations and provide a glimpse into the past for younger visitors unfamiliar with these relics. Among the treasures housed within its walls is a 1916 “Lily” still camera, a testament to the ingenuity of early Japanese craftsmanship and the museum’s oldest artifact.
The museum’s intimate three-room space is thoughtfully curated, presenting a rich tapestry of technological history. Its shelves, overflowing with vintage cameras, telecom equipment, and various other gadgets, invite exploration and reflection. Visitors, like 59-year-old Mika Matsuda, are transported back in time, reminiscing about the devices that once shaped their daily lives. The museum becomes a conduit for shared memories, connecting generations through the tangible artifacts of their collective past. Matsuda’s experience exemplifies the museum’s power to evoke a sense of nostalgia and prompt reflection on the rapid pace of technological advancement.
Established in January 2023, the Extinct Media Museum embodies the philosophy that all media, excluding the enduring mediums of paper and stone, are destined for obsolescence. This underlying principle underscores the museum’s mission to preserve these artifacts before they fade into complete oblivion. Deputy curator Barbara Asuka articulates this vision, emphasizing the museum’s commitment to providing a multi-sensory experience. The museum encourages visitors to interact directly with the exhibits, fostering a deeper connection to the technology and the era it represents. This hands-on approach allows visitors to not only see the devices but also to touch, smell, and feel them, adding another layer of depth to the experience.
The museum’s interactive approach, allowing visitors to handle the exhibits, enhances their understanding and appreciation of these technological artifacts. The tactile experience, including the distinct smell of aged plastics and metals, evokes a sensory connection to the past. This approach differentiates the Extinct Media Museum from traditional museums where exhibits are often viewed from a distance, behind protective glass. This interactive philosophy fosters a deeper engagement with the artifacts, transforming the museum visit into a more immersive and memorable experience.
The museum’s collection is continually enriched by donations from individuals like Hisashi Ito, a 56-year-old car designer who contributed a handheld watch and cassette tapes from his personal collection. This community-driven approach ensures the preservation of a wide range of artifacts, reflecting the diverse landscape of obsolete media. Ito’s act of donating his personal items exemplifies the shared responsibility of preserving technological history. He recognizes the value of sharing these artifacts with the public rather than letting them languish in obscurity or be discarded.
The Extinct Media Museum operates with flexible hours, accommodating a variety of schedules. The general admission fee is approximately 2,000 yen (around $12.70 USD), making it an accessible cultural experience. A discounted rate of 1,000 yen is offered to donors and students, recognizing their contributions and encouraging participation. This tiered pricing structure underscores the museum’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement. The museum serves as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and anyone interested in exploring the history of media technology, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of communication and entertainment.
