The Gobi Desert in Mongolia has been attracting paleontologists from across the globe ever since the 1920s when a U.S. team of naturalists uncovered a nest of fossilized dinosaur eggs there. The numerous explorations that followed led to a flurry of other discoveries, establishing the desert's reputation as one of the world's most prolific fossil sites.

In 1992, Japanese research institutes launched a joint project with Mongolian scientists to further investigate the area. Over the last two decades, the team has achieved great successes, including the complete extraction of an entire fossilized skeleton of a young Tarbosaurus. Most of the specimens on display are originals and are being showcased for the first time in Japan; Nov. 23-June 2.

Osaka Museum of Natural History; (06) 6697-6221; 1-23 Nagai Park, Higashi Sumiyoshi-ku, Osaka; Nagai Station, Midosuji Line. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (from March 1 till 5 p.m.). ¥1,200. Closed Mon. (except holidays), Dec. 25, Dec. 28-Jan. 4, Jan. 15, Feb. 12, May 7. www.gobidinosaur.com.