The city of Osaka at the end of VI - first half of VII century called Naniwa and was the capital of Japan. It is located in a place where it is always important trade routes crossed - both marine and terrestrial. At the beginning of the VIII century the capital was moved to Nara and Osaka Naniwa remained a major trading city and international port.

To preserve maritime history of Osaka, in the late XX century, the city authorities decided to create a Maritime Museum. Its construction began in 1998, and in 2000, the museum received its first visitors. Today, the museum is considered one of the largest in the world, has its very building is a landmark of Osaka, the unusual shape of the building is not only a museum, but also its location. Maritime Museum is a silver design of the spherical shape, which is located in Osaka Bay at a distance of 15 meters from the shore. During the construction of the dome have been applied technology and materials to protect the building from the effects of wind and waves, as well as the seismic shocks.

Inside the dome are a replica of the Japanese merchant ship and many other exhibits, placed on four floors. A copy of the merchant ship Nanivamaru is the main exhibit of the museum, the ship's name comes from the ancient name of Osaka - Naniwa. The ship is made of wood in full size. Among other museum treasures - many artifacts and objects to help get an idea of ​​the development of maritime trade in the local and international levels. Among them, the ukiyo-e prints, jewelry replicas of the nasal vessels, naval tools.

The museum also has two video-theater showing films on the marine theme, including 3D, as well as boat simulator, where you can try your hand at sailing.

Part of the Maritime Museum is located on the shore of the bay. This building houses offices and a lobby from which visitors descend to the underground tunnel leading to the silver dome. The width of the tunnel - 15 meters, length - 60, at the shortest distance from the coast to the dome is 15 meters. In the museum there is an observation deck, which is visible from the bay.