Kyoto Cultural Museum

Overview

The Kyoto Cultural Museum, opened in 1988, is a comprehensive cultural facility dedicated to showcasing Kyoto's rich history and culture. Established as part of the 1200th anniversary celebrations of Heian-kyo's founding, the building was constructed by the Kyoto Prefectural Government and is operated by the Kyoto Cultural Foundation. The main building, a seven-story structure with one basement level, houses various facilities including general exhibition halls, special exhibition halls, a film theater, and museum galleries. The general exhibition halls present Kyoto's history and culture through three zones: "Kyoto's History," "Kyoto's Festivals," and "Kyoto's Treasures and Culture." The "Kyoto's History" zone showcases different eras from the Heian period to the Meiji and Taisho periods; the Emaki Corridor features large-screen projections of Heian, Kamakura, Muromachi, and Edo period picture scrolls. The "Kyoto's Festivals" zone focuses on the Gion Festival, exhibiting magnificent festival floats and other treasured items from the various Yamabokocho (festival float districts). The "Kyoto's Treasures and Culture" zone features a wide array of cultural assets related to Kyoto, including those in the Kyoto Prefecture's collection. The annex is the former Kyoto branch of the Bank of Japan, a designated Important Cultural Property representing a prime example of Meiji-era Western architecture. Completed in 1906 and used as the bank's branch until 1965, it now houses a hall, shops (galleries and a shop), and the former vault, which now houses a coffee shop. The hall hosts exhibitions and concerts. The Kyoto Cultural Museum offers a deep dive into Kyoto's history and culture, providing a tranquil and beautiful setting to relax and explore. Don't miss the opportunity to visit!