To spark children’s curiosity during summer vacation, Okayama University of Science (OUS) hosted the Exciting Science Show on August 22-23 at the 8th-floor event hall of Okayama Takashimaya, just steps from Okayama Station. Over the two days, nearly 700 visitors—mostly families—took part in hands-on experiments with curious science toys, listened to the “language” of ants, and experienced the wonder of science with laughter and excitement.

This was the second event of its kind at Okayama Takashimaya, following last August’s Exciting Science Festival. Unlike the broader program last year, this year’s show focused exclusively on live performances.

The first day featured four programs: “Amazing Discovery! A Showcase of Astonishing Science Toys”, “Let’s Talk with...Ants?”, “Family Workshop on Life-Saving Skills—What Is an AED?”, and “Incredible Science Show Powered by Air!”. On the second day, audiences enjoyed another performance of “Incredible Science Show Powered by Air!”, along with “Independent Research with Rocks and Sand III: Gifts from Volcanic Ash”, “Let’s Build Models of Porous Molecules, Mongolian Dinosaur Excavation Survey 2025”, and “Independent Research with Rocks and Sand
IV: The Garnet Edition.”

Before the opening, Mr. Kenji Oka, President and Store Manager of Okayama Takashimaya, welcomed the audience:

“Last year’s event was very well received. I hope that once again families will go home saying, ‘That was fun—let’s come back.’”

OUS President Hiroyuki Hirano added:

“Let’s do our best so that as many people as possible can leave with an exciting and memorable experience.”