Tokyo National Museum

Overview

The Tokyo National Museum, established in 1872 (Meiji 5), is Japan's oldest national museum and a treasure trove of Japanese art, attracting visitors from around the globe. Its collection of approximately 110,000 items covers a vast spectrum, encompassing Japanese art, Eastern art, archaeology, history, and folklore, offering a glimpse into the depth, beauty, and history of Japanese culture. The main building, a symbol of the museum, is a majestic Western-style structure completed in 1937 (Showa 12). Its imposing entrance features monumental bronze Nio statues, designated as Important Cultural Properties, exuding an aura of grandeur and power. Inside, the main building showcases the cream of Japanese art, including national treasures and important cultural properties such as Buddhist statues, paintings, calligraphy, swords, ceramics, and lacquerware, allowing visitors to fully appreciate traditional Japanese aesthetics. Housed within the museum's grounds is the equally impressive, and World Heritage-listed, Tōyōkan (also known as Hyōkeikan), a masterpiece of Western architecture completed in 1908 (Meiji 41). Built originally as part of the Tokyo Imperial Museum, its exquisitely detailed interior decor evokes the splendor of its era. The Heiseikan, a modern building completed in 1999 (Heisei 11), presents Japanese culture and history from various perspectives. Interactive exhibits utilizing the latest display technologies provide an engaging experience for all ages. Throughout the year, the Tokyo National Museum hosts diverse special exhibitions showcasing select works from Japan and abroad, delving deeper into Japanese culture and history through themed displays. The museum shop offers a delightful array of Tokyo National Museum original goods, art books, and crafts as souvenirs. Relax and enjoy light meals and drinks at the museum's cafe. Located in Ueno Park, the Tokyo National Museum is a valuable place to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and history. We encourage you to visit and experience the splendor of Japanese culture firsthand.