Looking for some fascinating and educational months in the Conroe area? The Houston Museum of Natural Science presents “Samurai: The Way of the Warrior,” running now through September 7. The exhibit features 700 years of history, and it incorporates rare artifacts from one of the largest Samurai collections outside of Japan. You and your family can view armor, ceremonial regalia, weapons, writing implements, and personal artifacts. It is a fascinating glimpse into a culture and way of life that many know nothing about. The museum is open 9 am to 6 pm daily, and tickets are $25.

Samurai and the Houston Museum of Natural Science

Samurai is roughly translated as “those who serve.” The samurai were the warriors who served the wealthy landowners of Japan beginning in the late 800’s. The warriors gradually became heavily involved in the government of the country. It wasn’t until Commodore Perry arrived in 1853 that Japan opened its gates to the outside world, and the samurai learned to rule without military force. Soon, the samurai hold over the country came to an end. Today, the period stretching from 1185 to 1868 is known as the “Age of the Samurai.”

When you are visiting the museum to view the samurai exhibit, you may want to take in a few of the other exhibits on display. “Faberge: From a Snowflake to an Iceberg” runs through December 31. You can also check out “Shark!,” running through September 7. Of course, the museum also boasts an impressive permanent collection. Make time for the Morian Hall of Paleontology, the Hall of Ancient Egypt, the Welch Hall of Chemistry, the Farish Hall of Texas Wildlife, and much more.

Samurai Dentistry

The samurai exhibit does not discuss dental care in ancient Japan. However, we think it important to point out that, while the warriors may have worn beautiful ceremonial clothing, they had some rather unusual dental techniques – at least by modern standards. In America today, we consider a sparkling, white smile to be a standard of beauty. However, the Japanese longed for dark colored teeth. Many women and a few men would color their teeth with kanezimu, a substance derived from iron dissolved in vinegar. Fortunately for people’s teeth, the Japanese government outlawed tooth blackening in 1870. Today, the only place in Japan where you will see dark colored teeth is the stage. However, some people in Southeast Asia still practice the custom.

About Your Conroe General Dentist:

The Dental Centre of Conroe, John M Richards DDS delivers distinctive cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentistry for residents of Conroe, Houston, The Woodlands, Willis, Huntsville, and the neighboring communities. For more information about our services, or to schedule an appointment, contact us by calling (936) 441-4600.