Introduction
The Tokyo National Museum is the perfect place to gain an in-depth understanding of Japanese history and culture. Located in Ueno Park and opened in 1872, it is the oldest museum in Japan and boasts many valuable collections. The exhibits include art, crafts, and archaeological artifacts from Japan’s ancient and modern periods, providing visitors with a fascinating glimpse into the diversity of Japanese culture.
The museum consists of five main exhibition halls (Honkan, Toyokan, Heiseikan, Gallery of Horyuji Treasures, and Hyokeikan), each dealing with a different theme and period. In particular, the Honkan displays traditional Japanese arts and crafts, with ukiyo-e prints, swords, and ceramics being highlights. In the Toyokan, visitors can learn about the culture and history of Asian countries other than Japan, with art from China, India, and Korea on display.
The charm of the Tokyo National Museum lies not only in its extensive collection, but also in the special exhibitions and events held each season. This ensures that new discoveries and surprises await visitors no matter how many times they visit. The museum also has a café and museum store where visitors can relax and enjoy Japanese culture.
This article provides detailed information on how to get the most out of your visit to the Tokyo National Museum. We will help you further enhance your trip to Tokyo by providing information on what you should know before visiting, recommended exhibits, and how to access the museum. Enjoy a special moment of Japanese history and culture at the Tokyo National Museum.
History and Culture of Sightseeing Spots
The Tokyo National Museum is the place to visit for a deeper understanding of Japanese history and culture. Its history of establishment and development has played an important role in the protection of Japan’s cultural heritage and education.
Historical Background
The Tokyo National Museum was established in 1872. Initially, it opened in Ueno Park as the Ministry of Home Affairs Museum and became the first museum in Japan. With the opening of Japan to civilization during the Meiji era (1868-1912), the museum was established to protect and exhibit traditional Japanese art and cultural assets while incorporating Western culture and technology.
Later, after the Great Kanto Earthquake and World War II, the museum was rebuilt and expanded, becoming the large facility it is today. In particular, in 1952, the National Museum Act was enacted and the Tokyo National Museum was officially positioned as a national institution. This led to further collection, preservation, and research of cultural properties, forming the rich collection that exists today.
Cultural Features
The Tokyo National Museum consists of five main galleries, each with its own unique theme and exhibits.
- Honkan: Focusing on Japanese arts and crafts, the Honkan features a wide range of cultural treasures from the Jomon to Edo periods. Ukiyo-e prints, swords, and ceramics are particular highlights.
- Toyokan: This museum exhibits art and archaeological artifacts from Asian countries, with valuable artifacts from China, India, and Korea. Visitors can learn about the wide range of cultural influences in Asia.
- Heiseikan: This is where special and temporary exhibitions are held, with a different theme each season. This allows visitors to enjoy new discoveries and surprises each time they visit.
- Horyuji Treasure House: This museum displays treasures donated by Horyuji Temple and includes a collection of rare Buddhist artifacts from the Asuka and Nara periods.
- Hyokeikan: The building itself is an important cultural property, and special exhibitions are mainly held here. Visitors can enjoy the fusion of architectural beauty and exhibits.
The Tokyo National Museum is a place where visitors can learn about Japanese history and culture in depth through its rich collection and diverse exhibits. A visit will provide you with a valuable experience that will connect you to Japan’s past and present.
Places to visit
The Tokyo National Museum is a great place to experience Japanese history and culture, and there is much to see and do. Here are some suggested times to visit, main attractions, and things to keep in mind when sightseeing.
Suggested times of year to visit
The best times to visit the Tokyo National Museum are spring and fall. In spring (March to May), the cherry blossoms in Ueno Park are at their best and you can enjoy beautiful cherry blossom viewing. Autumn (September to November) is the season of cooler weather and beautiful autumn foliage. In addition, special and special exhibitions are held seasonally, so visitors can enjoy new exhibits every time they visit.
Major tourist attractions and popular places of interest.
Honkan
- Ukiyoe Gallery: Beautiful ukiyoe prints from the Edo period are on display, allowing visitors to appreciate traditional Japanese painting culture.
- Sword Collection: A must-see for sword enthusiasts, this collection displays masterpieces of Japanese swords. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful craftsmanship of the swords with detailed explanations.
Toyokan.
- Buddhist Art: Buddhist art from China and India is on display here, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about the deep relationship between religion and art in Asia.
- Ancient Artifacts: Ancient artifacts from various Asian countries are on display, offering visitors a sense of historical romance.
Heiseikan.
- Special Exhibitions: Seasonally themed special exhibitions feature valuable cultural treasures and artwork. It is recommended to check the official website for information on these exhibitions in advance.
Horyuji Treasury.
- Buddhist Artifacts: Treasures donated by Horyuji Temple are on display, allowing visitors to appreciate Buddhist art from the Asuka to Nara periods.
Hyokeikan.
- Special Exhibitions: The building itself is an important cultural property, and visitors can enjoy special exhibitions along with the beautiful architecture.
Points of Attention at Sightseeing Spots
When visiting the Tokyo National Museum, please note the following points.
- Purchase tickets in advance: Special exhibitions are very popular and we recommend purchasing tickets online in advance.
- Use of Cameras: Photography is prohibited in some exhibits. Even in areas where photography is allowed, please be careful not to use flash.
- Manners: Please visit the museum quietly and do not touch any of the exhibits. Eating and drinking are only allowed in designated areas.
Access
The Tokyo National Museum is located in the heart of Tokyo and is very conveniently accessible by major transportation systems. Here are access options from Tokyo Station, Narita Airport, and Haneda Airport.
Access from Tokyo Station
The Tokyo National Museum is easily accessible from Tokyo Station by train and on foot.
If you take the train
- JR Yamanote Line: Take the JR Yamanote Line from Tokyo Station to Ueno Station. The trip takes about 10 minutes. Exit from the Park Exit of Ueno Station and walk through Ueno Park to the museum in about 10 minutes.
- Tokyo Metro Ginza Line: From Tokyo Station, take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and get off at Ueno Station. The trip takes about 10 minutes. It takes about 15 minutes on foot from Ueno Station to the museum.
Access from Narita Airport
Access to the Tokyo National Museum from Narita Airport is also convenient. The most common way is by train.
If you take the train.
- Narita Express (N’EX): Take the JR Narita Express train from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station. The trip takes about 60 minutes. Then transfer to the JR Yamanote Line from Tokyo Station and get off at Ueno Station. The total trip takes about 80 minutes.
- Keisei Skyliner: Take the Keisei Skyliner from Narita Airport to Keisei Ueno Station. The trip takes about 45 minutes. From Keisei Ueno Station, it is approximately a 10-minute walk to the museum.
Access from Haneda Airport
The most convenient way to get to the Tokyo National Museum from Haneda Airport is by train.
If you take the train
- Tokyo Monorail and JR Yamanote Line: Take the Tokyo Monorail from Haneda Airport and get off at Hamamatsucho Station. At Hamamatsucho Station, transfer to the JR Yamanote Line and get off at Ueno Station. It takes about 45 minutes in total.
- Keikyu Line and Toei Asakusa Line: From Haneda Airport, take the Keikyu Line Airport Express and get off at Ueno Station via Asakusa Line. The trip takes about 40 minutes.
Hours of Operation, Admission Fees
When visiting the Tokyo National Museum, it is important to confirm information about operating hours and admission fees in advance. Here are details about the Tokyo National Museum’s hours of operation and admission fees.
Hours of Operation
The Tokyo National Museum’s regular hours of operation are as follows
- Tuesday through Sunday: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm (last admission at 4:30 pm)
- Friday and Saturday**: Extended hours until 8:00 p.m. (last admission at 7:30 p.m.)
- Closed: Mondays (if Monday is a national holiday, the museum is closed the following day), year-end and New Year holidays (December 26 through January 1)
Hours of operation are subject to change during special exhibitions and events, so it is recommended to check the official website for the latest information before visiting.
Admission Fees
Admission fees to the Tokyo National Museum vary depending on the contents of the exhibition and the availability of special exhibitions. The following are general fees:
- Permanent Exhibitions.
- Adults: 1,000 yen
- University students: 500 yen
- High school students and younger: Free
- Special Exhibitions
- Fees for special exhibitions vary depending on the contents of the exhibition. Please check the official website or museum information.
Group discounts and annual passports are also available. Please refer to the official website for details.
Other Information
- Audio Guides: Multilingual audio guides are available at the Tokyo National Museum. Visitors can listen to detailed explanations of each exhibit in several languages, including English, French, Chinese, and Korean. The rental fee for each audio guide is 500 yen.
- Free Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the museum, allowing visitors to search for additional information using their smartphones or tablets.
Summary
Located in Ueno Park, the Tokyo National Museum is Japan’s oldest museum and a great place to gain an in-depth understanding of Japanese history and culture. established in 1872, the museum consists of five main exhibition halls (Honkan, Toyokan, Heiseikan, Gallery of Horyuji Treasures, and Hyokeikan), each offering different themes and exhibitions. The best time to visit is during the cherry blossom season in spring and the fall foliage season. Japanese arts and crafts are displayed in the Honkan, while Asian art and archaeology can be enjoyed in the Toyokan. Special exhibitions are held in the Heiseikan, offering something new to discover each time you visit.
The Tokyo National Museum is very conveniently accessible from Tokyo Station, Narita Airport, and Haneda Airport, and can be easily reached via the JR Yamanote Line or the Keisei Skyliner. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with extended hours until 8:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The museum is closed on Mondays and during the year-end and New Year’s holidays. Admission to the permanent exhibition is 1,000 yen for adults, 500 yen for university students, and free for high school students and younger. Fees for special exhibitions vary depending on the content of the exhibit.
The museum has a multilingual audio guide and free Wi-Fi, making it a friendly environment for foreign visitors. Enjoy a special experience at the Tokyo National Museum as you learn more about Japan’s rich history and culture.
