Researchers at Nagoya University Museum in Japan have developed an innovative educational approach called the “Sense-Science-Significance” (S-S-S) model to deepen visitor engagement with cultural heritage, using the critically endangered Kiso horse as a case study. Recognizing that visitors often appreciate historical artifacts intellectually but feel disconnected personally, the team incorporated direct sensory experiences—such as the smell of horse manure at different fermentation stages, sounds from traditional horse markets, and tactile comparisons of horse hooves—into exhibitions. This multisensory strategy aimed to make the heritage more tangible and relevant, encouraging visitors to reflect on the biology, ecology, and conservation of the Kiso horse, which has dwindled to about 140 individuals due to historical breeding practices.

The S-S-S model proved effective, with surveys showing increased visitor reflection and a stronger sense of personal connection and responsibility toward conservation. Since its initial application in a special exhibition featuring the skeleton of Daisan-Haruyama, the foundation stallion of the modern Kiso breed, the framework has been used in over 30 museum education events addressing various specimens and environmental issues. The researchers hope this flexible, sensory-based model will be adopted globally by museums to enhance public engagement with cultural and environmental heritage.