NINS was established in April 2004 to bring about further development of the natural sciences in Japan.

[1] NINS is one of four inter-university research institute corporations that were reorganized as a result of incorporation as independent administrative entities.

NINS also collaborates with institutes in the United States, Europe and Eastern Asia, to support international research projects.

The five institutes established under NINS are Japan's main centers of academic research in their respective fields.

It also utilizes the development of astronomy and other related fields as opportunities for international cooperation.