Kibo consists of four components. Two experimental facilities, the Pressurized Module and Exposed Facility, logistics modules attached to each of them and, a Manipulator to be used for experiments or for ORU changeout tasks.

The Pressurized Module is where experiments utilizing the microgravity environment will be conducted. Ten experiment racks equipped with various devices are located inside the Pressurized Module. 

Exposed Facility is located outside the ISS and is exposed to outer space all the time. On ISS, the Exposed Facility and the truss facilities are the only locations where the space environment can directly be utilized. Astronauts exchange experiment payloads or devices from the pressurized module mainly utilizing the Kibo manipulator.

The Experiment Logistics Module (ELM) takes a roll of an on orbit storage area which accommodates experiments or consumables. The Pressurized Module and the Exposed Facility each accommodates ELM.

The Remote Manipulator System (JEMRMS) serves as an arm to support experiments conducted on the Exposed Facility. The main arm handles large items, for delicate tasks, the small fine arm can attached at the end of the main arm. The main arm is equipped with a TV camera which allows astronauts to monitor the operation from inside the pressurized module.