Cultural Treasures: 10 Best Museums to Visit in Tokyo
Tokyo has more than 150 museums that showcase its history, culture, and modern art. Whether you're interested in ancient artifacts, contemporary art, or hands-on science exhibits, Tokyo has something for everyone.
With so many choices, it can be hard to decide which museums to visit. This guide will help you discover the 10 best museums to see in Tokyo, from popular landmarks to hidden treasures.
Must-Visit Museums in Tokyo for Every Traveler
1. The Tokyo National Museum
The Tokyo National Museum is one of the most famous museums in Japan. It is located in Ueno Park and is known for its large collection of Japanese art and artifacts. The museum was established in 1872 and has more than 110,000 items, including samurai armor, ancient pottery, beautiful kimonos, and Buddhist statues.
The museum is divided into different sections, each focusing on a specific part of Japanese history and culture. One of the most popular sections is the Honkan (Japanese Gallery), where visitors can see traditional paintings, calligraphy, and sculptures. Another highlight is the museum's seasonal exhibitions, which feature rare and unique items from Japan and other countries.
Visitors can explore the museum with the help of English guides and audio tours. The museum also has a lovely garden where you can relax and enjoy nature. It is a great place to visit if you want to learn more about Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Location: Ueno Park
Highlights: Samurai armor, Buddhist sculptures, calligraphy, seasonal exhibitions
Entry Fee: Around 1,000 yen
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
2. Mori Art Museum
The Mori Art Museum is a fantastic destination for lovers of contemporary art. Located at the top of the famous Mori Tower in Roppongi Hills, the museum provides a combination of art and breathtaking views of Tokyo's skyline. Established in 2003, the museum is known for its cutting-edge exhibitions featuring both Japanese and international artists.
The exhibitions cover a wide range of themes, including modern culture, technology, and social issues. The museum frequently collaborates with global artists, ensuring that each visit brings a fresh experience. Interactive displays and multimedia installations make the experience engaging for all ages.
One of the unique aspects of the Mori Art Museum is its integration with the Tokyo City View observation deck. Visitors can enjoy contemporary art and then take in panoramic views of the city, including iconic landmarks such as Tokyo Tower and Mt. Fuji on clear days.
Location: Roppongi Hills
Highlights: Contemporary art, panoramic city views, interactive exhibits
Entry Fee: Around 1,800 yen
Opening Hours: Typically 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (check the official website for special hours)
3. The National Art Center, Tokyo
The National Art Center in Tokyo is one of the largest exhibition spaces in Japan and is known for its impressive modern design and dynamic exhibitions. Opened in 2007, the museum stands out because it does not have a permanent collection. Instead, it hosts a variety of changing exhibitions that feature contemporary art from Japan and around the world.
The building itself, designed by renowned architect Kisho Kurokawa, is an architectural masterpiece with a striking wave-like glass facade and spacious open interiors. The museum offers a unique experience with its constantly rotating art shows, ensuring that each visit brings something new.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of exhibitions, from paintings and sculptures to fashion and digital art. There is also a library where you can learn more about art and design, a stylish café offering light meals and drinks, and a gift shop with unique art-related souvenirs.
Location: Roppongi
Highlights: Rotating exhibitions, modern architecture, art library, café
Entry Fee: Varies depending on the exhibition
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
4. Nezu Museum
The Nezu Museum in Aoyama is a wonderful place to experience traditional Japanese and East Asian art. The museum was founded in 1941 and is known for its impressive collection of calligraphy, paintings, ceramics, and sculptures from Japan, China, and Korea.
One of the highlights of the museum is its beautiful Japanese garden. The garden is a peaceful oasis in the busy city and features stone pathways, a pond, and traditional tea houses where visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere.
The museum's permanent collection includes rare tea ceremony utensils, Buddhist art, and ancient Chinese bronzes. Special exhibitions are held throughout the year, showcasing different themes and unique pieces from the collection.
Visitors can also enjoy the museum café, which offers a relaxing view of the garden while serving light meals and drinks. The museum shop sells unique souvenirs, including art books, ceramics, and traditional Japanese crafts.
Location: Aoyama
Highlights: Japanese garden, traditional calligraphy, ceramics, tea ceremony utensils
Entry Fee: Around 1,300 yen
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
5. Ghibli Museum
Anime fans will love the Ghibli Museum, dedicated to the works of Studio Ghibli, creators of movies like "My Neighbor Totoro" and "Spirited Away." This whimsical museum takes visitors into the magical worlds created by the studio with beautifully designed exhibits, life-sized characters, and original animation artwork.
The museum features a variety of exhibits, including sketches, models, and exclusive short films that can only be viewed at the museum. Visitors can explore Totoro-themed rooms, step into a life-sized Catbus, and see detailed replicas of animation studios showing how Ghibli movies are made.
Discover the magic of Studio Ghibli on this immersive bus tour from Shinjuku, featuring visits to the Ghibli Museum and key locations that inspired the films.
A highlight of the museum is the rooftop garden, where visitors can find a large robot soldier from the film "Castle in the Sky." There is also a charming café serving themed snacks and a gift shop with exclusive Ghibli merchandise.
Location: Mitaka
Highlights: Studio Ghibli film exhibitions, Totoro-themed rooms, exclusive short films, rooftop garden
Entry Fee: Around 1,000 yen (booking required)
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays)
6. Edo-Tokyo Museum
The Edo-Tokyo Museum is a fascinating place to learn about Tokyo's transformation from the Edo period (1603-1868) to the modern era. Opened in 1993, the museum offers a deep dive into the city's cultural heritage, showcasing how life in old Edo gradually evolved into the bustling metropolis we see today.
One of the museum's main attractions is its life-sized replicas of historical buildings, including a traditional Kabuki theater, merchant houses, and an old Edo-style bridge. Visitors can walk through these displays and experience how people lived, worked, and entertained themselves in the past.
The museum also has a large collection of historical artifacts, such as samurai armor, ancient maps, and household items used by people during different periods. Interactive displays and models make it easy for visitors of all ages to understand the changes Tokyo has undergone over the centuries.
Location: Ryogoku
Highlights: Life-sized historical replicas, Edo-period artifacts, city development exhibits
Entry Fee: Around 600 yen
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (closed on Mondays)
7. National Museum of Nature and Science
The National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno Park is one of Japan's best museums for science lovers. It covers a wide range of topics, including space, dinosaurs, human evolution, and Japan's natural environment. Established in 1877, the museum has two main buildings: the Japan Gallery and the Global Gallery.
In the Japan Gallery, visitors can learn about the country's flora, fauna, and geological history. The Global Gallery focuses on topics like outer space, the history of life on Earth, and technological advancements.
One of the most popular exhibits is the dinosaur display, which features life-sized skeletons and models. There are also hands-on areas where children and adults can engage in interactive science experiments and educational games.
Location: Ueno Park
Highlights: Dinosaur fossils, space exploration, human evolution, hands-on exhibits
Entry Fee: Around 600 yen
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
8. Samurai Museum
The Samurai Museum in Shinjuku is a fascinating place to learn about Japan's legendary warriors. It offers an in-depth look into the history and culture of the samurai, who played an important role in Japanese history for centuries. The museum showcases a wide collection of authentic Samurai armor, swords, helmets, and other traditional weapons.
One of the highlights of the museum is the live sword demonstration, where professional actors dressed as samurai perform realistic sword fighting techniques. Visitors can also try on samurai armor and take pictures, making it an interactive and memorable experience.
The museum provides guided tours in English and other languages to help visitors understand the significance of the displayed artifacts. There are also displays explaining the samurai code of honor, known as Bushido, which emphasizes values such as loyalty, courage, and discipline.
Location: Shinjuku
Highlights: Samurai armor, sword demonstrations, photo opportunities, guided tours
Entry Fee: Around 1,800 yen
Opening Hours: 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM (daily)
9. teamLab Planets TOKYO
Experience the magic of teamLab Planets in Tokyo: A sensory wonderland where art, technology, and nature intertwine, offering an unforgettable journey.
The teamLab Planets TOKYO is a fun and exciting digital art museum in Toyosu, Tokyo. It offers a unique experience where visitors can become part of the art. Opened in 2018, the museum has gained popularity for its immersive and interactive exhibits that use lights, sounds, and water to create magical environments.
Visitors can walk barefoot through the different areas, feeling textures and temperatures that enhance the experience. One of the most famous exhibits is "Floating in the Falling Universe of Flowers," where digital flowers bloom and move around you. Another popular exhibit is the "Infinity Room," filled with mirrors and colorful lights that make it look endless.
teamLab Planets is a great place for taking creative photos and enjoying a multi-sensory experience. It is perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking for something unique to do in Tokyo.
To visit, you need to book tickets in advance online, as it can get crowded. The museum also has a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs related to digital art.
Location: Toyosu
Highlights: Interactive digital art, barefoot walking experience, light and sound displays
Entry Fee: Around 3,200 yen
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (varies by season)
10. Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum
The Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. Located in Ueno Park, it is one of the most significant art museums in Tokyo, offering a diverse range of exhibitions. The museum was established in 1926 and is dedicated to promoting both Japanese and international art.
The museum hosts rotating exhibitions that feature works from various art styles, including classical, modern, and contemporary art. It collaborates with famous artists and institutions from around the world, bringing internationally acclaimed art exhibitions to Tokyo.
One of the highlights of the museum is its free galleries, which display works by local artists and students. This makes it a great place to discover up-and-coming talent and enjoy art without spending any money. The museum also offers art workshops and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
Location: Ueno Park
Highlights: Local and international art, free galleries, educational programs
Entry Fee: Some exhibitions are free; others vary in price
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (closed on Mondays)
Best Free Museums in Tokyo
If you're looking to explore Tokyo without spending much, there are several amazing free museums to visit. These museums offer a chance to experience Japanese culture, history, and art without an entry fee.
Advertising Museum Tokyo: This museum showcases the history of Japanese advertising, featuring vintage posters, commercials, and marketing campaigns from different eras. It provides a fascinating look at how advertising has evolved in Japan.
Suginami Animation Museum: A must-visit for anime lovers, this museum offers an insight into the history and production process of Japanese animation. It includes exhibits on famous anime studios and interactive displays where visitors can try their hand at animation.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory: While not a traditional museum, this observatory offers free exhibitions of Tokyo's urban development and culture. Visitors can also enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.
Intermediatheque Museum: Located near Tokyo Station, this museum features a collection of scientific specimens and cultural artifacts from the University of Tokyo. The exhibits range from historical items to modern scientific discoveries.
Police Museum: This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of Japan's law enforcement, featuring police uniforms, vehicles, and crime-solving techniques used over the years.
Plan Your Museum Visits Wisely
Tokyo has many interesting museums, covering history, art, science, and more. To have a good experience, it's a good idea to plan ahead. Check ticket availability online to avoid long waits, visit during quieter times to enjoy the exhibits, and make a list of the museums you want to see most.
Whether you're interested in the traditional culture at the Tokyo National Museum or the modern art at teamLab Planets TOKYO, planning will help you enjoy your visit without stress.
