Who is Questacon?
At Questacon we create fun interactive learning experiences that stimulate engagement in science and technology.
What do we do?
Questacon — The National Science and Technology Centre is located in Canberra, Australia and offers a dynamic, hands-on environment where visitors of all ages can engage with science and technology.
In addition to this, Questacon delivers nationwide outreach programs, including the Questacon Science Circus, which brings science to communities across Australia.
As Australia’s National Science and Technology Centre we support young people to build a better future and develop the attributes, skills, and knowledge to thrive in tomorrow’s world.
We achieve this through:
- rich, hands-on science engagement at our 2 Centres
- high impact STEM programs delivered to regional and remote Australia
- dedicated experiences for our early learners and their carers
- engaging students and educators with programs to develop STEM capabilities
- embracing First Nations knowledge to deepen understanding of our first peoples’ long-running connection to and use of science and technology.
Questacon and Japan
Questacon has shared a strong and enduring relationship with Japan, built on a shared passion for science, education and cultural exchange.
In 1986 the Australian Parliament approved the construction of the National Science and Technology Centre. In the same year, the Japanese Government and business community agreed to support half the cost of building Questacon, providing ¥1 billion (equivalent to A$10 million) as a Bicentennial gift to the Government and people of Australia.
This support helped transform Questacon from a small-scale science outreach initiative into the world-class interactive science centre that stands today in the heart of the nation’s capital.
Questacon's relationship with Japan continues to thrive through collaborations with Japanese institutions, participation in global science engagement programs, and the hosting of exhibitions that highlight Japan’s contributions to innovation and technology. Over the years, Questacon has welcomed Japanese delegations, scientists, and cultural ambassadors, fostering mutual learning and inspiration. In addition, Questacon collaborates closely with Joetsu Science Museum, Miraikan, Nagoya Science Museum and the Osaka Science Museum.
Learn more about our relationship: Questacon and Japan story
Science Tourism Canberra
Japan Science Circus shows
Spectacular Science Shows will be featured on the Australian Pavilion stage at the Osaka Expo 2025.
When: 11am and 3pm Daily from 17 to 21 May 2025 and 18 to 22 July 2025
Location: Australian Pavilion, Osaka, Kansai, Japan
Duration: 1 hour
About
Just like a visit to Questacon isn’t complete without seeing a live performance, a visit to the Australia Pavilion at the Osaka Expo 2025 wouldn’t be complete without seeing one of our Spectacular Science Shows in-person! These shows use humour, storytelling, exciting demonstrations and audience interaction to show you the wonders of science and technology.
From exploring the power of air pressure to discovering sensational sounds, our interactive experiences, brought to life by our Science Circus performers, will ignite your curiosity and provide STEM fun for everyone.
Things to know
- Shows are family friendly and suitable for all ages.
- Shows are free with entry to the Osaka Expo 2025.
- See the EXPO2025 Visitors App for further information.
Japan Workshops: Questacon Science communication and STEM engagement
International experts in Quantum, AI and digital transformations sharing their expertise on the world stage .
When: 11 am on Monday 19 May, Wednesday 21 May and Friday 18 July
Location: Australian Pavilion, Osaka, Kansai, Japan
Duration: 2 Hours
About
In three themed panel discussions and workshops, a diverse collection of experts from around the world will explore:
- Communicating Quantum Science and Technology
- Science Communication and Trust in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
- Digital Immersion for Learning & Discovery: Transforming Visitor Experience.
Joining one of Questacon’s world leading science communication experts, each panel will feature leading Australian business people, academics, researchers, communicators and public figures to get to the heart of these emerging subjects in science communication. With a particular focus on the techniques for clear and accurate dissemination of complex information, these workshops will emphasise Australian talent, creativity and ingenuity at the forefront of creative communication.
Things to know
- These workshops are ticketed within the Australian Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka.
- For additional information, please contact Questacon.Coordination@questacon.edu.au.
Japan Tour: Science Circus Shows
Questacon brings science communication to colleagues and visitors at the Osaka Science Museum.
When: Check the Osaka Science Museum webpage for further details
Location: Osaka Science Museum - 4 Chome-2-1 Nakanoshima, Kita Ward, Osaka
Duration: 1 hour
About
Questacon is visiting the Osaka Science Museum! Have you ever wondered what occurs when science communicators from Australia and Japan meet? To find out, join us at these special Science Circus Shows!
Over the last 10 years, Questacon and the Osaka Science Museum have developed amazing shows together, while fostering a new generation of science communicators.
These shows use humour, storytelling, exciting demonstrations and audience interaction to show you the wonders of science and technology.
Things to know
- Shows are family friendly and suitable for all ages.
- Shows are free with entry to the Osaka Science Museum.
- For detailed information about show times, please refer to the Osaka Science Museum website.