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10 Best Museums in Tokyo

As anyone who has every dined, partied, or simply wandered around the city will attest, Tokyo marches to its own infectious beat. So it makes sense that the Japanese capital’s many museums are a far cry from the stodgy mausoleums of yesteryear. In lieu of squat buildings full of dusty dioramas, picture cutting-edge modernist structures by some of the country’s top architects. Many of the premier art spaces forego a permanent collection entirely in favor of a constantly rotating roster of high-profile shows by big-name local and international talent. Even the smaller collections strive to present their subject matter in clever, often wildly creative, ways. Not sure where to go first? Here are our editor’s picks for 10 of Tokyo's best museums.

Yayoi Kusama Museum Arrow

Book well in advance if you want to snag a 90-minute time slot to the world’s only museum dedicated to the fabulously eccentric Yayoi Kusama. The avant-garde provocateur has been turning heads since the 1960s, but recent years she has transformed into an internet phenomenon and one of the most influential artists in Japan. Located near her studio in Shinjuku, the museum is one of Tokyo’s hottest openings of the last few years. Only 200 lucky visitors make it in daily, which keeps the Instragram influencers from crowding works like the mirrored “Infinity Room.” While the museum doesn’t have much floor space to work with, the architects have made sure that every corner of it is photogenic; even the elevators beg for selfies. Ride one up to the fifth floor to find another flamboyant, glittering gourd up on the roof by the reading room. In addition to her larger-scale works, the museum displays paintings and all sorts of other polka dots, and special exhibitions change twice a year.

Ghibli Museum Arrow

A small but thoughtful tribute to the works of Japan’s most beloved animation studio, the Ghibli Museum's design is as quirky as its collection. Director Hayao Miyazaki lent his personal touch to the building, which loosely echoes a grand Italian villa. A dense layer of greenery covers the exterior of the mansion and a 16-foot-tall robot soldier from the classic film Castle in the Sky peers morosely down from the rooftop garden. A location in lush Inokashira Park makes it feel like a hidden secret, but this museum has been booked solid since it opened. Tickets for visitors outside of Japan go on sale on the first of the month for the following three months—and they sell out quickly. Die-hards could easily spend an afternoon just browsing the Tri Hawks reading room, but if you’re in a rush, you can cruise through the collection in an hour. Don’t miss a screening of one of the animated short films, all of which are exclusive to the Ghibli Museum.

The National Art Center, Tokyo Arrow

Housed in an undulating concrete-and-glass structure designed by pioneering Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa, the National Art Center, Tokyo is one of the country’s largest contemporary art showcases. At any given time, the museum features four rotating exhibitions spread across 150,700 square feet and 12 galleries. This ever-changing space is the polar opposite of a stuffy, moldering museum and an essential stop for lovers of Japanese art and architecture. Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Mori Art Museum or the Suntory Museum of Art for a culture-packed day. Free, centrally located, and always featuring something new, this museum is as much for Tokyo residents as it is for foreigners.

Tokyo Photographic Art Museum Arrow

An intimate four-story space in the Yebisu Garden Palace complex, the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum hosts three tightly focused exhibitions on Japanese and international photography at any given time. Unlike, say, the Tokyo National Museum, this is more of a low-key local haunt than a high-profile tourist attraction. Curators go to great lengths to make the presentation matches the subject matter, and the bright, modern interior and the well-organized galleries make for an interesting detour if you’re in the neighborhood.

The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo Arrow

At first, the somewhat austere, gray facade of the National Museum of Modern Art feels at odds with the surrounding greenery of Kitanomaru Park. Inside, however, is one of the finest collections of modern Japanese art in the world. Walking through the galleries on the fourth and second floors allows you to see some of the most turbulent periods in the nation’s past through the eyes of its most influential artists. Though the film portion of the museum split off last year to form the National Film Center, the Crafts Gallery is still a short walk away. While the slick triad of art museums in Roppongi fills up during peak times, a visit here tends to be far more relaxed; even on weekends, long lines are rare. That seems to suit the visitors just fine—the works here invite leisurely contemplation.

Tokyo National Museum Arrow

Intricately embroidered kimonos, samurai swords, serene-faced Buddha statues, thousand-year-old ceramics: You’ll find it all and more in the Tokyo National Museum, which houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of Japanese art. Surrounded by the winding paths and shrines of Ueno Park, the country’s oldest museum is a must-see for everyone from historians to culture-vultures looking for a crash course. The unparalleled permanent collection contains more than 110,000 artifacts. Thankfully, the curators are sensible enough to space their vast array of treasures out. Each room feels carefully composed rather than cluttered, and special exhibitions rotate constantly, meaning the 4,000-odd works on display from the permanent collection at any given time are never quite the same as at your last visit.

Mori Art Museum Arrow

The Mori Art Museum, the flashiest member of the Roppongi Art Triangle, sits atop the 52nd and 53rd floors of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower. At about $14 for entrance to the main exhibition hall, this museum is on the steeper side for Tokyo’s cultural attractions. Still, that ticket grants you access to blockbuster works of contemporary art by the likes of Ai Weiwei and Dinh Q. Lê, not to mention a 360-degree panorama from one of the tallest buildings in town. Curators here do an exceptional job of creating exhibitions that are as thought-provoking as they are Instagrammable.

National Museum of Nature and Science Arrow

Dating back to the 1870s, the National Museum of Nature and Science, in Ueno Park, is a boon for parents with curious kids. Butterflies, a fallen meteorite, and all manner of marvels pertaining to the broad field of natural science make this sprawling museum feel like an extended field trip. There’s a special emphasis on the anthropological history, biodiversity, geology, and technological contributions of Japan here. With a reasonable entry fee (about $5) for adults and free entry for children under 18, the museum offers hours of family-friendly entertainment for just a few bucks. The key to getting the most out of your visit to this museum is realizing that you don’t have to see it all—especially if younger members of your group are starting to fidget. Rather than race through the whole collection, hone in on one or two subjects of interest.

Edo-Tokyo Museum Arrow

Journey 400 years back in time to Japan’s past, when shoguns ruled the isolated nation with an iron fist. The Edo-Tokyo Museum recreates this formative era through detailed architectural models and scale reconstructions of Tokyo’s historic neighborhoods. Original woodblock prints and maps round out the nuanced picture. The museum highlights not only the larger political forces at play, but also the day-to-day lives of ordinary citizens. To enter the permanent exhibition area, visitors walk across a reproduction of the Nihonbashi Bridge before peering into replicas of tenement houses and other long-lost landmarks. As you move through the exhibits, you’ll learn about everything from the Edo period’s robust publishing industry to the rise of arts such as kabuki theater and ukiyo-e, or woodblock printing. After thoroughly exploring the past, the museum takes visitors through Tokyo’s rapid transformation from a sheltered, feudal society to a globally oriented 21st-century metropolis.

Nezu Museum Arrow

Traditional East Asian and Japanese art meet contemporary architecture in the Nezu Museum, a minimalist space redesigned by Kengo Kuma. High ceilings, bamboo walls, and enormous windows overlooking the museum’s leafy surroundings in Aoyama district make this feel more like visiting the home of a sophisticated friend than a conventional gallery. That’s fitting, since the museum was once the private residence of Nezu Kaichirō, the president of Japan's Tobu Railway. Much of its impressive 7,400-piece collection comes from his private stash of pre-modern works. Although it’s hardly unknown, the museum has managed to stay relatively under the radar and wandering through the six exhibition spaces even on weekends is a stress-free affair. Take in the sculpture, ceramics, and calligraphy at your own pace, then make your way to one of the most exquisite private gardens in the city.

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Things To Do in Tokyo Art & Culture

35 Must-visit Museums and Galleries in Tokyo

Whether you're visiting Tokyo for the first or fifth time, you can never be too inspired

March 14, 2023 Updated On January 22, 2024

There are hundreds of museums and galleries in Tokyo, ranging from hole-in-the-wall exhibition rooms to leading art institutions. It can be difficult to know which are worth the hype and which you can comfortably skip out on. This list serves as a handy directory of over 30 cultural facilities worth the trip. You probably won’t fit everything into a single visit (though we will not stop you from trying), but these are all great places to start your journey into the art world.

Ghibli Museum | Photo by cowardlion via Shutterstock

Tokyo Museums Worth the Hype

1. ghibli museum.

Located near Kichijoji Station, the Ghibli Museum is the animation studio’s first physical space dedicated to its films, many of which were directed by Hayao Miyazaki . More akin to a theme park than a museum, fans of Ghibli can spend time in a whimsical area with hints to popular titles wherever your eyes wander. Every now and again, the museum will host special exhibitions surrounding one particular film or work.

Note: It is recommended to book your tickets as far in advance as possible.

2. Mori Art Museum

Perhaps one of the city’s best private institutions, the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi Hills hosts numerous exhibitions throughout the year that feature artists from Japan and abroad. The museum is known for its meticulous curation and bold yet accessible themes that can be enjoyed by amateur and hard-core art lovers alike.

In addition to the main gallery space, the Mori Art Museum has smaller sister galleries that host additional exhibitions, notably the Mori Art Gallery, which focuses more on technology and popular culture.

3. Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT)

Located in Tokyo’s Kasai neighborhood , the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo is a beloved art museum that also serves as a venue for a series of fairs. Enjoy its permanent exhibitions, which display items pulled from the museum’s collection of Japanese and international contemporary art and special exhibitions.

Lovers of art and design theory will appreciate the MOT’s Art Library, which houses materials and exhibition catalogs available for browsing. There is also a children’s corner for young ones.

4. National Art Center, Tokyo

Boasting one of Japan’s largest exhibition spaces, which spans 14,000 square meters, The National Art Center, Tokyo is a must-visit if you love all things art. It also displays how creative works can encourage mutual understanding and inclusion. In addition to curated exhibitions, there are various programs ranging from talks and seminars to workshops led by the artists themselves.

5. National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo (MOMAT)

The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo was the first national museum to be built in central Tokyo. One of its allures is its vast collection of Important Cultural Properties and Japanese art from the 19th century onward. MOMAT usually hosts two exhibitions at a time, one featuring a curated selection of items from its collection and another that surrounds a chosen theme.

6. Spiral Gallery

Spiral is a gallery, event space and general hub for all things crafts and visual arts located in Omotesando. The majority of its exhibitions feature independent artists from diverse backgrounds and those who work with various mediums, from photography to doll-making.

Spiral also has a shop that sells items with noteworthy designs on the gallery’s second floor and online .

7. Sumida Hokusai Museum

Katsushika Hokusai’s “The Great Wave Off Kanagawa” figures among the most recognizable works of Japanese art. The Sumida Hokusai Museum is dedicated to the work of Hokusai, from his early prints and grotesque yokai to his world-famous views of Mount Fuji . The museum’s contemporary facade is a great contrast to the works inside and is even more impressive in person.

8. Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum

A short walk from JR Meguro Station, the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum is a must-visit for lovers of architecture and Japanese art. The exhibition halls are split between two buildings, the Former Residence of Prince Asaka and the annex. Select rooms inside the Former Residence were preserved and styled as they were when the prince still lived there, so every visitor gets a glimpse of the past as they go through the current exhibition.

The museum also has a garden with Japanese and European-style landscaping, as well as a restaurant.

9. Tokyo National Museum (TNM)

The Tokyo National Museum is the oldest facility of its kind in Japan. Whether you’re fascinated by Japanese swords, nihonga, or lacquerware, you’re sure to find many artifacts from Japan and the rest of Asia at TNM. The museum has a permanent exhibition as well as special exhibitions around selected themes across its multiple buildings.

10. Yayoi Kusama Museum

The Yayoi Kusama Museum is dedicated to the internationally renowned Japanese artist with whom it shares its name. The museum has three floors that house various artworks and installations. Every quarter, it updates its exhibition spaces to follow a theme inspired by Kusama’s latest musings.

Photo by Takafumi Yamashita on Unsplash

Tokyo Museums You Might Not Know

11. artizon museum.

Formerly known as The Bridgestone Museum of Art, Artizon Museum reopened under its current name, which combines the words “art” and “horizon,” in 2020. The various exhibitions showcase a wide range of works, from antiques and classic Japanese art to 20th-century paintings and contemporary installations.

12. Diesel Art Gallery

Diesel Art Gallery serves as an exhibition space for avant-garde artists from Japan and abroad. The gallery prides itself on hosting art that you will rarely (if ever) see at other institutions and art spaces. Exhibiting digital artist Mad Dog Jones was on the cover of Tokyo Weekender’s September 2019 issue .

13. Espace Louis Vuitton Tokyo

Located in Omotesando on the top floor of the Louis Vuitton building, this exhibition space welcomes installations and works by leading contemporary artists.

14. Gyre Gallery

This Omotesando art spot is known for its multidisciplinary and cross-medium exhibitions and artists. Gyre Gallery is beloved for its avant-garde showcases of contemporary art, fashion, media and technology. It’s free to enter, plus you get to wander the Gyre building, which is in itself a multilevel complex of design inspiration.

15. Ginza Maison Hermès Le Forum

A collaborative space on the eighth and ninth floors of the Ginza Maison Hermès store, Le Forum exhibits the work of local and international contemporary artists under select themes, with a preference for the visually striking.

16. Kaikai Kiki Gallery

Founded and run by controversial but beloved Japanese artist Takashi Murakami , Kaikai Kiki Gallery hosts a plethora of small exhibitions by contemporary local and international artists, some for the first time in Japan.

17. Mitsubishi Ichigokan

Mitsubishi Ichigokan is located in Marunouchi and is presented as a symbol of the modernization of Japan, which is shown via the building’s stunning facade, designed in 1894 by Josiah Conder. The museum exhibits a variety of traditional and modern items from a wide range of mediums, including ukiyo-e and photography.

18. Nezu Museum

The Nezu Museum is perhaps most famous for its garden , specifically its violet bed that blooms for only a week or so every June. However, year-round, visitors can enjoy various selections from the private collection of Nezu Kaichiro, which features pre-modern Japanese items as well as East Asian art.

19. Suntory Museum of Art

Opened in 1961, the Suntory Museum of Art is part of the Tokyo Midtown complex in the Minato Ward. It hosts six special exhibitions per year, each showcasing a selection of artworks and artifacts from the museum’s private collections. Keep an eye out for sought-after Important Cultural Properties and Important Art Objects on display.

20. Yamatane Museum of Art

Those interested in Japanese art, especially nihonga, should pay the Yamatane Museum of Art a visit. Operating since 1966, the private museum is dedicated to deepening our understanding and appreciation of Japanese paintings, from ancient to modern times. The museum also has a shop and café. You can enjoy seasonal wagashi in the latter.

National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan)

Specialized Tokyo Museums for All

21. 21_21 design sight.

Part of the Tokyo Midtown complex, 21_21 Design Sight is a specialized gallery that focuses on, as you might have already guessed, design. It also showcases projects and cases in which design, art, and technology intersect. The gallery usually has on show one to two exhibitions at once and has no ‘permanent collection.’

22. Bunka Gakuen Costume Museum

The Bunka Gakuen Costume Museum is one of the few institutions dedicated to garments in Japan. It’s a specialized university-affiliated museum, working in tandem with Bunka Fashion College to showcase Japan’s fashion landscape through a holistic lens, though it also showcases various clothing items from East and Southeast Asia received after World War II.

23. Ginza Graphic Gallery

As its name suggests, Ginza Graphic Gallery (or GGG for short) is a specialized exhibition space dedicated to graphic design. In addition to exhibitions, which are free to enter, GGG holds lectures and sells graphic design-related books meant to inspire and educate.

24. National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan)

Even those with a casual interest in science and technology should consider visiting The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation . Permanent exhibitions include everything from a life-size reconstruction of a portion of the International Space Station to a simplified model that explains how the internet works. Most installations and areas are interactive and have support systems in various languages.

Special exhibitions surrounding specific technology-related themes are also hosted here. Best check before visiting to see if they suit your interests and are worth the extra pair of tickets.

25. Ota Memorial Museum

Ukiyo-e is perhaps the most famous Japanese art abroad. The Ota Memorial Museum is a facility that displays pieces from a private collection of over 12,000 works based on a monthly rotation, inspired by various themes including beautiful women and cats.

26. Teamlab Borderless and Teamlab Planets

International collective Teamlab is known for its twist on traditional museums and galleries by heavily incorporating technology and music. Tokyo locations include Borderless, set to reopen in 2023 in Azabudai Hills , and Planets in Toyosu. Teamlab experiences are immersive and encourage visitors to navigate the so-called “digital museum” using all five senses.

27. Terrada Art Complex

The Terrada Art Complex is a cluster of highly specialized and curated galleries in Shinagawa. Japanese and international contemporary artists exhibit and sell their work here. Note that most galleries are free to visit but some require advance reservations.

28. Tokyo National Museum of Nature and Science

The Tokyo National Museum of Nature and Science , which focuses on natural history and the history of science and technology, has a myriad of interactive, immersive and educational exhibits that range from the showcasing of dinosaur fossils to space tech.

The museum recently updated some of its most popular rooms, including the Animal of the Earth room, so if you haven’t visited in a few years, it might be worth checking out.

29. Tokyo Photographic Art Museum

Fans of photography should not skip a visit to the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum in Ebisu. Spread across three floors and one basement, the museum holds exhibitions surrounding one photographer or theme, as well as the occasional festival. It also has a library visitors can browse to learn more about photography as an art form.

Huls Gallery Tokyo

Independent Tokyo Galleries

30. calm & punk gallery.

Located in Nishiazabu, Calm & Punk Gallery exhibits a range of contemporary works by Japanese and international artists with a strong focus on multimedia and performance art. The gallery also publishes its own art book, Gasbook .

31. Huls Gallery Tokyo

Huls Gallery Tokyo is a gallery and shop that specializes in Japanese pottery, ceramic and porcelain ware from around the country. Every month you can see and learn more about the country’s diverse landscape of tableware types. If your Japanese is not great, fear not as the shop’s clerks can guide you through the exhibition and enhance your shopping experience in English.

Want more info? Read our interview with founder Yusuke Shibata .

32. Jinny Street Gallery

Jinny Street Gallery is a unique exhibition-slash-experience in Shibuya. Instead of your standard exhibition room or space, artworks are exhibited in specially repurposed telephone booths around Jingumae 2-chome. The gallery hopes to encourage ‘flaneuring’ by having the works showcased in Tokyo streets.

33. Perrotin Tokyo

Perrotin’s Tokyo gallery hosts contemporary art exhibitions not too far from Roppongi Hills. It’s a great place to see the latest names in the art scene. The gallery also has a small shop with merchandise and curated items from Perrotin and participating artists.

34. UltraSuperNew Gallery

Located in Harajuku, just north of Takeshita Street, UltraSuperNew Gallery is an art and event space that hosts small exhibitions by established and up-and-coming artists. It is run, in part, by the creative agency UltraSuperNew, which operates from the floor(s) above the gallery.

35. What Museum

The What Museum has only one purpose: to make the works of artists and collectors accessible to the public. Operated from inside a warehouse, the museum, along with its curators and exhibitioners, have the rare opportunity to explore what a gallery should look and feel like. Come for the contemporary art showcased side-by-side with the thoughts of collectors and connoisseurs in the industry.

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10 Essential Museums To Visit In Tokyo

Explore the city's best locations for art, science and history.

Whether a resident or a tourist, don't leave Tokyo without visiting these truly essential museums.

Tokyo is home to some of the most remarkable art, film, science, history and culture spots in the world, which often means that you can find local and national museums spread out across every area of the city — so choosing where to go may be a challenge. To help you narrow down your must-see, must-go spots,  we’ve narrowed down Tokyo’s long roster of museums to the following 10 essentials.  Locals, you have no excuse for not having visited those. Visitors, whether you’ll be in Tokyo for just a few days or longer, make sure you stop by at least half of these. Now let’s get started!

1. National Museum of Nature and Science

Nestled in the eastern corner of Ueno Park, the National Museum of Nature and Science is a must-see for anyone interested in natural and technological history. The facility is huge, and has an impressive collection of flora and fossils, which are beautifully displayed throughout the entire building. The museum also celebrates technological advancement, and displays a range of tools, instruments, literature and objects that have been used to preserve and study the world around us. Why not take a nice stroll through Ueno Park and pop in for an afternoon of wonderment?  Look for the enormous (and adorable) blue whale statue next to the entrance.

Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday to Monday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday to Friday Address: 7-20 Ueno Park, Taito-ku Admission:  ¥620 (Adults), Free for high-school students and younger

2. Tokyo National Museum

A post shared by 野田和俊 (@jimpoet1971) on Dec 18, 2017 at 3:33am PST

Also located in Ueno Park, Tokyo National Museum is one of Japan’s oldest and most celebrated museums in Japan. Opened in 1872, the museum displays a wide range of artworks, antiquities and artefacts from both Japan and other countries in East-Asia. It particularly specializes in art, archeological objects and historical documents, and holds around 110,000 items (89 of which are national treasures). Tokyo National Museum is recommended for anyone with a particular love for Japanese and East-Asian culture and history.

Hours: 9:30 a.m-5 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays) Address: 13-9 Ueno Park, Taito-ku Admission: ¥620 (Adults), ¥410 (University Students), Free for High/Junior High/Elementary School Students, people under 18 and over 70

3. Suntory Museum of Art

Located on the third floor of Tokyo Midtown, Suntory Museum of Art has been around since 1961 and proudly maintains a theme of celebrating “Art in Life.” The current collection consists of over 3000 articles, with each piece themed to have a close connection with Japanese life. Though the museum has no permanent exhibitions, it houses a range of paintings, lacquerware, ceramics, glass and other items — and of course special exhibitions throughout the year. Uniquely, the museum also offers traditional tea ceremonies every other Thursday in its Genchoan Tea Ceremony Room.

Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday to Thursday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Address: 9-7-4, Akasaka, Minato-ku Admission: Varies by exhibition.   Free admission for junior high students and under.

4. The Japan Folk Crafts Museum

Opened by Soetsu Yanagi in 1936, the Japan Folk Crafts Museum is the ultimate location to celebrate mingei (folk crafts). The museum’s collection is made up of around 17,000 craft works, including textiles, woodwork, paintings and other crafts. It also houses a range of works from Okinawa, the Korean Peninsula, China and Taiwan.  

Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Address: 4-3-33, Komaba, Meguro-ku Admission: ¥1,100 (Adults), ¥600 (Universities & high school students), ¥200 (Junior high & elementary school students)

5. Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum

The Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum celebrates the work of avant-garde painter and sculptor Taro Okamoto. After Okamoto’s death in 1996, his home and studio were turned into the museum in order to display his art and share his creations with the public. Visitors can see exactly where Taro Okamoto lived and worked. The museum houses a wide range of Okamoto’s work, including sculptures and paintings, as well as a shop on the first floor where visitors can purchase various books and goods inspired by Okamoto’s works.    

Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Address: 6-1-19, Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku Admission: ¥620 (General), ¥310 (Elementary School Children) 

6. Bunkamura Museum of Art

Located a 12-minute walk from Shibuya station, Bunkamura is a museum, theatre, concert hall and cinema all rolled into one. The museum gives its visitors the ability to indulge in a wide range of artistic and cultural experiences all within the same location. Opened in 1989, Bunkamura exists as a ‘cultural complex’ celebrating art, performance, music and film. The museum receives around 2.8 million visitors per year and is an excellent destination for art and film lovers.

Hours: from 10 a.m. (closing times vary between the museum’s facilities) Address: 2-24-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku Admission:  Varies per exhibition

7. National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan)

The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation — otherwise known as Miraikan — can be found in Odaiba, just a 15-minute walk from Daiba and Tokyo Teleport stations. This museum celebrates new technology and cutting-edge innovation and science. Opened in 2001, Miraikan was created to develop a greater understanding of science and technology, and to aid in Japan’s goal of becoming an increasingly scientifically and technologically creative nation. This museum is a must-see for anyone interested in emerging science and technological advancement.

Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Address: 2-3-6 Aomi, Koto-ku Admission: ¥620 (Adults), ¥210 (18 years old and under)

8. Amuse Museum

Only five-hundred meters from Asakusa Station, Amuse Museum is an art and cultural facility dedicated to celebrating an ethos of “harmony, beauty and technology.” Amuse describes itself as a ‘live’ museum, specializing in textiles, graphics and designs influenced by Japanese traditional culture. The museum’s permanent exhibition, ‘BORO’, is a collection of textiles and patched clothing, some of which date back to the Edo period. These pieces are simple, and have been passed down through generations, each piece being mended through the application of patches of cloth, thus celebrating Yuyo no bi (beauty of practicality).

Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (closed Mondays) Address: 2-34-3, Asakusa, Taito-ku Admission: ¥1,080 (Adults), ¥864 (University & High school students), ¥540 (Junior high and elementary school students) 

9. Ghibli Museum

Regardless of whether you’re a fan of anime, art, and film or not, the Ghibli Museum is a must-see! Just over a 15-minute walk from Mitaka Station, the museum is an enchanting facility celebrating the history and works of Studio Ghibli, the company behind some of the world’s most renowned anime works (Totoro, Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke — to name just the very basic). Expect to spend a few hours perusing the beautiful collection of original drawings and concepts, watching the exclusive animated short in the museum’s adorable cinema, and exploring the rooftop garden where you’ll find the five-meter-tall Robot Solider from Laputa Castle in the Sky. Keep in mind, however, this museum is immensely popular and you can buy tickets only in advance.  See more about that  here .   

Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (closed most Tuesdays) Address: 1-1-83 Simorenjaku, Mitaka-shi Admission: ¥1,000 (Adults), ¥700 (Age 13-18), ¥400 (Age 7-12), ¥100 (Age 4-6). Tickets sold in advance only. 

10. Edo-Tokyo Tatemono En

This open-air museum was established in 1993 to reconstruct, preserve and exhibit historical buildings so that they may be enjoyed for generations to come. These buildings range in age from early Edo period to post-World War II and you can feel the then-vibes by entering each house and building and exploring the indoors. From a Meiji-style police box to a photo studio from the Showa era, this open-air museum makes you feel almost as if you were on a time travel exploration. The facility also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including its annual summer festival in August and New Year’s event in January.

Hours: April-September: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., October-March: 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Closed Mondays and New Year holidays. Address:  3-7-1 Sakuracho, Koganei-shi, Tokyo (inside Koganei Park) Admission: ¥400 (Adults), ¥320 (College students), Free from elementary school children and younger 

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There's always something new on show from films at the Ghibli Museum to works by Yayoi Kusama in Tokyo © Jeremy Sutton-Hibbert / Getty Images

In a city of ravenous for art, in  Tokyo lines for exhibitions are as long as those for the latest pop idol's concerts.

The dozens of museums and galleries in Tokyo with dynamically changing exhibitions – from ukiyo-e woodblock prints to NFT gifs blinking on LED canvases – ensure even locals will never get bored. Whether local or international, there is always something new on show in the impeccable art halls of Japan's capital.

Weekends and holidays are best avoided if possible. And in this city of meticulous, perpetually full schedules, tickets should be bought in advance. Rarely is the entrance-ticket free, save for Culture Day (November 3). Most art institutions close on Mondays; the rest of the week, public ones shut their doors as early as 5pm, while private museums and galleries stay open longer.

1. teamLab Planets

Best immersive museum in Tokyo

Not even a typhoon could deter the people lining up for one of the first teamLab exhibitions back in August 2016. Since then, the international art collective – composed of various specialists, such as artists, programmers, engineers, CG animators, mathematicians and architects – has been unstoppable.

teamLab Planets is a whimsical wonderland, one where you enter barefoot, climb a waterfall, step on flowers of light in silky warm water, and knock around giant colorful balls. In contrast to most museums, here you should touch the art, snap photos, proclaim your excitement and dive into the fun – in other words, truly immerse yourself. 

There are four massive exhibition spaces and two gardens, with a living orchid exhibit and occasional seasonal additions, like cherry blossoms in March and April. In teamLab Planets' front yard stands the public art sculpture named Universe of Fire Particles Falling from the Sky , a lava-lamp-like beacon of digital flowing art. In the same area, Reversible Rotation – Non-Objective Space  is a special mirror-walled art room where one can eat creative ramen offerings from Vegan Ramen UZU, surrounded by teamLab's unique spatial calligraphy projections. Tickets are purchased in advance, with a predetermined time slot. 

2. Yayoi Kusama Museum

Most dynamic museum dedicated to a single artist

Run by the eponymous Yayoi Kusama Foundation, this museum opened in 2017 to have the art of its prolific avant-garde namesake always on display. Best known for her polka-dot pumpkins and infinity mirror rooms, the 93-year-old Kusama keeps creating today, with some of the works exhibited referring to themes of isolation. 

Unlike museums dedicated to a single artist that remain pretty static, the Yayoi Kusama Museum often changes exhibits, which makes the tickets highly coveted, considering even Tokyoites are itching to visit at least twice a year. Also, the museum often exhibits works for the first time ever in Japan – or the world. 

The current exhibition "Visionary Colors" runs until March 2024. Tickets must be purchased in advance, with a predetermined time slot. 

3. Mori Art Museum

Art with a view

On the 52nd and 53rd floors of Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, Mori Art Museum stands tallest among museums in Tokyo. Visit for the art and linger for the views.

Ticket holders of Mori Art Museum can also enter the open-air Sky Deck for just ¥500 (about US$5). It's a rare open-air observation deck in Tokyo, and the 360-degree view includes the iconic Tokyo Tower and the Tokyo Skytree. Even Tokyo Bay is visible by day. 

The museum is a private institution that walks the tightrope between brave curation of cutting-edge art and pop culture. In the last few years alone, the museum has held exhibitions on the ukiyo-e painter Hokusai, as well as Hello Kitty and Attack on Titan, and it's collaborated with Hollywood darling Takashi Murakami and futurist designers and stars of Japanese architecture.

4. Ghibli Museum

Best for children and children at heart

Whimsical and fantastical, this museum looks like it belongs in a Ghibli movie itself. Ivy hugs the colorful walls, while a Totoro plushie grins from a fake entrance and one of Laputa's iron giants stands on the museum's rooftop.

The doors of the Ghibli Museum open to an even more magical space. Upon entering, you are given a ticket made from pieces of 35mm film that were actually used in theaters. You can hold it up to the light and see which scene from a Ghibli film you got. 

Once in, there is original Ghibli art displayed, peeks into animation history and even a replica of Hayao Miyazaki's work desk. The museum screens short movies, some of which are exclusive to the museum and only available for a limited time. The cute cafe and museum shop on the premises are among the best places for Ghibli merchandise . 

A special exhibition on  The Boy and the Heron opened in November 2023 and is tentatively expected to run through to 2025.

At just ¥1000 (US$8) for an adult ticket (less for children), it is affordable but notoriously difficult to nab one due to high demand. Advance reservations only. Also, be prepared for the fact that no photos are allowed inside the museum.  

5. 21_21 Design Sight

Best museum for design hipsters

With names such as starchitect Tadao Ando and fashion designer Issey Miyake involved, architecture, fashion and design otaku (geeks) fall head over heels for this museum. 

Architects and Japan have always had a special affair – every architect wants to visit the country with the most Pritzker Architecture Prize winners. One of those winners is Tadao Ando, so 21_21 Design Sight's building alone is art, with its sloping concrete roof and underground halls. It's made both to blend into Midtown Garden greenery and to stand out with its concrete geometry. 

The art exhibitions often fulfill the tall order of showing something you've never thought of before – 2021's "Translations," for instance, had robot monks singing sutras and a computer screen room translating everything you said into myriad languages, among other things. In 2024, Shunji Yamanaka's prototyping of the future, and an exhibition of ethereal works by American artist Daniel Brush are in the calendar. 

6. Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum

Local art lovers' best-kept "secret" spot

As much as public institutions can be secret, or as much as secrets can exist today, the Teien Art Museum is something close to a secret – at least, it's relatively uncrowded.

Open since 1983, it's housed in the former residence of Prince Asaka Yasuhiko, a building designated one of Japan's Important Cultural Properties. The prince and princess lived in Paris in the golden age of art deco, so the whole building was constructed in that style by the best artisans of the time. 

Today, the exhibitions at Teien Art often focus on art deco or have a French connection, such as the recent displays of glass art by Lalique. The museum's 2024 spring exhibition celebrates the museum's 40th anniversary, with an exhibition that analyzes and interprets anew the building, its construction and its artefacts.

7. Tokyo National Museum

Best museum for first-time visitors to Japan

The Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park is Japan's first, oldest and largest museum, displaying a vast collection of primarily Japanese artworks for 150 years now. There are yet more superlatives in order: with more than 100,000 pieces, hundreds of them national treasures, the Tokyo National Museum possesses one of the biggest and best art and history collections in Japan, featuring paintings, sculptures, calligraphy, architectural models, metalware, swords, pottery, archeological objects and more.

With a wealth of traditional Japanese items, such as kimono, samurai armor, calligraphy scrolls and ukiyo-e woodblock prints (mainly in the Honkan building), it's a must-visit for all Japan aficionados. Since most Japanese people would have visited this landmark museum early on, it's often uncrowded and relaxed, with spacious exhibition halls spread over six buildings. In the teahouses in the garden, you might even chance upon a haiku gathering.

This article was first published May 11, 2022 and updated Jan 19, 2024.

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10 Best Museums to Visit in Tokyo

As the largest metropolitan area in the world, it should come as no surprise that Tokyo is packed with must-see cultural attractions. The city’s home to some of the most-renowned museums, and they’re far from the stuffy spaces of decades past. Whether your passion is art, culture or history, there’s a museum in Tokyo just waiting for you to explore its artifacts.

Whether you’re the type of traveler that frequents foreign museums or you’re a new resident to the country seeking a connection to its heritage, here are the 10 best museums to visit in Tokyo.

1. Edo-Tokyo Museum

Ready to take a journey into Japan’s mysterious past? The Edo-Tokyo Museum takes you 400 years back in time, to when shoguns ruled the country with an iron fist. You’ll find detailed architectural models and reconstructions of Tokyo neighborhoods, along with maps and woodblock prints, that help you get a taste of what life was like in the legendary Edo period. You’ll get to know about the unique politics of the age, as well as what daily life was like for everyday citizens.

The Edo period was also a time of cultural flourishing for Japan, and it’s on full display in the Edo-Tokyo Museum. You’ll learn about the development of arts like kabuki theater and woodblock printing, as well as how Japan modernized quickly into the 21 st Century, forward-thinking society we know and love today.

2. The National Museum of Modern Art

Set against the green backdrop of Kitanomaru Park, Tokyo’s National Museum of Modern Art looks austere and imposing. Once you step inside, though, you’re immediately met with lively, colorful works of modern Japanese art that you can’t find anywhere else.

The National Museum of Modern Art is home to the most comprehensive collection of modern Japanese art. The collection includes more than 13,000 items, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, video installations and so much more. While the museum holds some international works, the main focus of permanent and rotating exhibitions is the Meiji Period onward. Be sure to visit the Crafts Gallery nearby. It’s a short walk away and showcases traditional Japanese crafts, including textiles, lacquerware, ceramics, bamboo and other decorative objects.

3. The National Art Center

Tokyo’s National Art Center is one of the country’s premier destinations for contemporary art. At any given time, there are four rotating exhibitions spread across the museum’s sprawling concrete-and-glass structure. What makes The National Art Center so unique—aside from the work it contains—is the overall look and feel of the space. The interesting architecture makes the museum the opposite of a stuffy space; instead, it’s light, airy and inspiring.

What can you see at The National Art Center? It all depends on when you’re visiting, since there’s no permanent collection. Curators focus their efforts on bringing a new, thoughtfully focused exhibition every two weeks, on average. Rotating exhibits range from calligraphy to large-scale installation works. Most galleries are free, but some special shows cost a modest fee, usually less than $10. If you’re looking to enjoy a day soaking in Japan’s unparalleled art scene, plan a visit to The National Art Center, along with the nearby Mori Art Museum for a culture-packed experience. 

4. National Museum of Nature and Science

One of Tokyo’s oldest museums, the National Museum of Nature and Science is a place to indulge your curiosity of the scientific world. You’ll find all sorts of marvels related to the natural sciences, from butterfly collections to fallen meteorites and so much more. The museum’s collections center around anthropology, biodiversity, geology and technology, and the contributions Japan’s provided to the sciences. This family-friendly museum is always a hit with kids, so if your group includes young travelers, be sure to add the National Museum of Nature and Science to your must-see list.

5. Nezu Museum

The Nezu Museum is a monument to both Japanese art and architecture. Housed in a minimalist space redesigned by Kengo Kuma, the museum is an architectural marvel, featuring high ceilings, bamboo walls and walls of windows.

In addition to its architectural importance, Nezu Museum houses more than 7,400 pieces of pre-modern works owned by Nezu Kaichiro, president of Japan’s Tobu Railway. The museum is less-visited than larger attractions like The National Art Center or the Edo-Tokyo Museum, so wandering its galleries is a hassle-free, calming experience. Stop by for an afternoon and take in the impressive calligraphy, sculpture, ceramics and so much more at your own pace, and enjoy one of the most beautiful gardens you’ll find in Tokyo, while you’re at it.

6. Tokyo National Museum

Home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of Japanese art, Tokyo National Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city. The museum’s impressive 110,000-piece permanent collection includes everything from ancient Buddha statues to thousand-year-old ceramics, beautiful kimonos to priceless works of calligraphy. It’s the country’s oldest museum, and everyone from culture-lovers to professional historians can learn a lot from every visit.

The sprawling museum contains spacious galleries with carefully curated, rotating collections. Each room is specifically composed, and there are 4,000 works on display at any time, so the experience is never quite the same as your last visit.

7. Tokyo Photographic Art Museum

Hosting three rotating exhibitions at any given time, the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum is always a hit with art-lovers. Housed in the Yebisu Garden Palace complex, the museum features an intimate four-story space dedicated to showcasing both Japanese and international photography. Unlike other larger museums in Tokyo, the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum is more low-key, so you can get to know the works inside at your own pace, without much distraction.

Aside from the photographs displayed within, the space itself is interesting. Its bright, modern interior is the perfect backdrop for carefully curated exhibitions. Stop by if you’re in the neighborhood for an intimate, hassle-free cultural experience.

8. Mori Art Museum

Set high above the streets of Tokyo, the Mori Art Museum is a cultural destination not to be missed. It sits atop the 52 nd and 53 rd floors of Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, and it’s home to some of the most notable works of contemporary art. You’ll find works by renowned contemporary artists like Ai Weiwei, Takashi Murakami, Nara and so much more, housed in beautiful, dazzling gallery spaces.

Aside from admiring the beautiful works, your admission ticket gives you access to one of the most amazing views of the city. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower is one of the tallest buildings in the city, and it features a 360-degree panorama of Tokyo. If you’re looking to soak in some culture—and get some great pics for the ‘Gram—don’t skip the Mori Art Museum on your visit to Tokyo.

9. Yayoi Kusama Museum

Yayoi Kusama is one of the most celebrated living contemporary artists, and the museum that bears her name is just as eccentric and visually interesting as her work. If you want to book a 90-minute time slot at the Yayoi Kusama Museum, make your reservations well in advance, as it’s one of the most popular attractions in Tokyo, and only 200 visitors are allowed in each day.

The Yayoi Kusama Museum is the world’s only museum dedicated to the work of Yayoi Kusama. Located near her studio in Shinjuku, every corner of the space is Instagram-worthy, featuring unique installation pieces like large-scale sculptural works along with more intimate paintings—not to mention the artist’s characteristic polka dots that decorate the walls of the space. Special exhibitions change twice each year, so get your tickets and experience the incredible work of this unique artist firsthand.

10. Ghibli Museum

Hayao Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli is known around the world for its distinctive, heartwarming animation style. This jewel box of a museum is just as quirky as the interesting collection it contains, and Miyazaki himself even gave the building his own personal touch. It takes the form of an Italian villa, painted in Ghibli-esque pastel hues and covered by a layer of greenery. A 16-oot-tall robot soldier from Castle in the Sky looks down at visitors as they arrive—you almost feel as if you’re walking into the magical world of Ghibli in real life.

The building itself is tucked away in a lush garden in Inokashira Park, so the museum almost feels like a well-kept secret. The truth is, the Ghibli Museum is generally booked solid for months in advance, so be prepared and book your slot before you visit. Plan to spend an afternoon at the museum, strolling through the collections at a leisurely pace, and don’t miss a screening of a Ghibli short, all of which are exclusive to the museum.

See all of the beautiful history Tokyo has to offer

Tokyo’s packed with interesting cultural attractions. From contemporary art museums like the Mori to historical treasures like Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo’s the destination for lovers of culture, whether you’re a casual art admirer or a well-learned professor. Explore all the museums on this list and get a glimpse of some of the most thought-provoking, awe-inspiring art, historical artifacts and natural marvels from around the world!

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The 15 Best Museums in Tokyo, Japan [2024]

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Table of Contents

The best museums in tokyo, how to get free or reduced admission to tokyo museums, final thoughts.

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Tokyo is a world-renowned travel destination for a multitude of reasons, from its vibrance to its culture. One of the best ways to experience what Tokyo has to offer is by visiting some of the city’s many museums. Whether you’re interested in art or folk culture, there’s a Tokyo museum that deserves a spot on your travel itinerary.

1. Ad Museum Tokyo

First opened in 2002, the Ad Museum Tokyo aims to look at the evolution of the advertising industry. The space’s exhibits are arranged in order, starting with posters and marketing material that have been traced back to the Edo period of the 17th century.

In total, the museum has over 300,000 pieces in its collection , the majority of which are advertising posters, though other forms of marketing are also represented in the facility.

In addition to the museum galleries, which are open to the public, there’s also an on-site library available for research purposes. This museum also houses various temporary exhibitions throughout the year to look at specific ad styles, periods, or companies.

Special events are also held on the premises specifically designed for those interested in marketing. However, keep in mind that many of these events are held exclusively in Japanese, so contact the museum before visiting to be sure you’ll be able to understand.

Admission is free for all visitors. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 12 to 6 p.m. The nearest train stop is JR Shimbashi station.

• Address: 〒105-7090 Tokyo, Minato City, Higashishinbashi, 1 Chome−8−2 カレッタ汐留

2. Artizon Museum

The Artizon Museum in Tokyo is one of the city’s premier locations for Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. Though many of the museum’s pieces were created by Japanese artists, European and American art is also showcased on the premises.

Since the museum’s foundation was first founded in 1952, the collection has grown to over 3,000 pieces, from paintings to sculptures.

Some of the artists with pieces in the museum are Edgar Degas, Claude Monet, and Narashige Koide. Some highlighted pieces are “Cup and Spoon” by Picasso, “Woman in a Hat with Flowers” by Renoir, and “Deer Running in the Snow” by Courbet.

The museum has a sizable collection of ancient and antique artwork as well, including Grecian urns and decorative bowls from the Middle East.

In addition to the permanent collection, the space has dedicated areas for temporary exhibitions, which routinely rotate throughout the year to spotlight specific artists and mediums.

Admission is free for students and ￥1,800 (~$12) for the general public. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The nearest train station is JR Tokyo.

• Address: 1 Chome-7-2 Kyobashi, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0031

“The museum’s wide-ranging collection incorporates Impressionist works and modern Japanese Western-style paintings. Its distinctive approaches to introducing art include collaborations between contemporary artists and the collection. Enjoy the museum café and shop, too!” Artizon Museum

3. Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum

With 30 buildings on its grounds, Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum is an open space dedicated to Japanese architectural design. This museum first opened in 1993 and consists of restored and, at times, wholly reconstructed historic buildings.

The museum is divided into 3 different areas.

• Center Zone houses 5 buildings, including the former “Kōkaden Hall,” originally built in 1940.
• West Zone has 7 different buildings on its grounds, including the “Koide House,” which mixes both Japanese and Western elements.
• East Zone is the largest and has 14 different buildings, many of which were initially built for commercial purposes, like the “Flower City Flower Shop.”

A series of other outdoor elements are also on display on the grounds, including the former gates of the Imperial Palace, a fire watchtower, and a “Noonday Gun” cannon. Special events are often held on the grounds as well, especially to celebrate Japanese holidays.

Tickets are ¥200 (~$1) for high school and junior high students from outside of Tokyo and seniors 65+, ¥320 (~$2) for university and vocational school students, and ¥400 (~$3) for adults. Admission is free for Tokyo students and visitors with disabilities and their caregivers. The museum is open Wednesday through Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The nearest train station is Musashi-Koganai, which is a 10-minute taxi ride away.

• Address: 〒184-0005 Tokyo, Koganei, Sakuracho, 3 Chome−7−1 内 都立小金井公園

4. Ghibli Museum

First opened in 2002, the Ghibli Museum is entirely dedicated to the work and art of Studio Ghibli and its films. This is a museum geared toward people of all ages and is in part a children’s museum, a technology center, and a gallery of the fine arts.

Ghibli Museum also showcases the history and evolution of animation using Studio Ghibli characters in hands-on and interactive displays. For example, the “Bouncing Totoro” model displays shows visitors how animation first began.

Its studio has even produced a series of short films that can only be seen on the museum premises. These include “The Day I Harvested a Star,” “Boro the Caterpillar,” and “Water Spider Monmon.”

In addition to the permanent exhibit spaces, the studio frequently hosts temporary galleries. These exhibitions typically spotlight animation and artists from around the world or dive deeper into the art behind some of the studio’s most beloved films.

Entrance is free for children under 4, ¥100 (~$1) for kids 4 to 6, ¥400 (~$3) for children 7 to 12, ¥700 (~$5) for kids 13 to 18, and ¥1,000 (~$7) for adults. The museum is open Wednesday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The nearest train station is JR Mitaka and then a 15-minute walk.

• Address: 1 Chome-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo 181-0013

5. Japan Folk Crafts Museum

Tokyo’s Japan Folk Crafts Museum first opened in 1936 to preserve and highlight traditional handcrafted art and crafts from Japanese culture.

Since opening, the facility’s collection has grown to incorporate over 17,000 works of art, the majority of which were created around the 1920s. However, there are also numerous more recent pieces and antiques.

Some of the highlighted pieces housed in the museum are “Dish with Millet Design in Iron,” “Bodhisattva of Wisdom and Intellect,” and “Garment with Striped and Ikat Design.”

This space notably displays art in a wide variety of mediums, ranging from more traditional art like paintings to household items such as clothing and ceramic dishware.

Throughout the year, the facility regularly hosts temporary exhibitions. Most of these highlight important folk artists. Educational events are also occasionally hosted on the premises. These events are often held in English as well as in Japanese. However, check on the event’s language to be sure before your arrival.

Tickets are ¥200 (~$1) for elementary and junior high students, ¥700 (~$5) for high school and university students, and ¥1,200 (~$8) for adults. The main hall is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The nearest train station is Komaba-Tōdaimae.

• Address: 4 Chome-3-33 Komaba, Meguro City, Tokyo 153-0041

6. Mori Art Museum

Also called the MAM, the Mori Art Museum is one of Tokyo’s most highly-regarded contemporary art spaces. The space is primarily devoted to showcasing established and rising artists from around the world.

However, unlike many contemporary museums, the MAM has a permanent collection that’s always on display and showcases art from Japan and the rest of the continent. Currently, over 450 works of art are permanently housed on the premises, though a portion of them are typically housed in the archives.

The museum isn’t dedicated to any specific art medium or style. Many of the facility’s exhibitions are considered avant-garde in the world of art. Some of the artists whose work has been displayed at the museum are Shilpa Gupta, Lee Wen, and Yoko Ono.

The Mori Art Museum also acts as an educational space for art students, which includes guided tours for school groups. These tours can be conducted in English as well as in Japanese.

Admission is free for children from 4 to junior high, ¥1,300 (~$9) for high school and university students (¥1,400 (~$10) at weekends), ¥1,500 (~$10) for seniors 65+ (¥1,700 (~$12) at weekends), and ¥1,800 (~$12) for adults (¥2,200 (~$15) at weekends).

The museum is open Wednesday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The nearest subway stop is Roppongi Station.

• Address: 〒106-6150 Tokyo, Minato City, Roppongi, 6 Chome−10−1, Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 53階

7. The National Museum of Modern Art

Initially opened in 1952, the National Museum of Modern Art , also called the MOMAT,  was the first national art museum in the country. Since then, it’s also grown to be one of the best modern art facilities in Japan and one of the greatest in the world.

The space houses over 13,000 works of art from Japanese and international artists, which have been divided into multiple galleries, including a gallery dedicated to crafts and another dedicated to film.

MOMAT’s current collection displays are spread out over 3 different floors. In addition to the galleries, these floors house the art library, a panoramic viewing room, and an on-site restaurant, so you can spend all day exploring the exhibits.

Though many of the museum’s pieces are kept in the archives, they’re occasionally displayed at temporary exhibitions alongside pieces on loan from other modern art collections from around the world.

Admission is free for children under 18 and visitors with disabilities, ¥1,000 (~$7) for university students, and ¥1,500 (~$10) for adults. The museum is open Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The nearest metro station is Takebashi.

• Address: 3-1 Kitanomarukoen, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 102-8322

8. National Museum of Nature and Science

Tokyo’s National Museum of Nature and Science has been open for over 100 years as a research and study center. Originally, the museum displayed mostly taxidermied examples of animals from around the country. However, the modern iteration of the facility delves into other fields of the natural sciences.

This space uses both traditional and interactive displays to engage visitors of all ages. While the primary language of the museum’s informative plaques and literature is Japanese, most of it is also available in English, so international guests can also learn.

As a science museum, it also houses historical artifacts that are broadly divided into 2 sections. The “Japan Gallery” houses pieces such as a replica of the “Elekiter,” and the “Global Gallery,” houses items such as a model of a Zero fighter plane.

This exhibit space also has a botanical garden to showcase species from Japan and around the world. It’s also an active research facility to this day.

Admission is free for anyone under 18 and ¥630 (~$4) for everyone else. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The nearest train station is Ueno Station.

• Address: 7-20 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8718

9. Nezu Museum

When the Nezu Museum first opened, it housed the private collection of Nezu Kaichirō, the space’s namesake.

Today, the vast majority of the collection is made up of pre-modern art from Japanese and international artists. However, since its opening, the space has grown to over 7,400 works of art and cultural pieces , some of which are considered national treasures by the government.

This particular facility doesn’t focus on any specific art mediums, and its displays include examples of metalwork, ceramics, and even calligraphy. It even has 1,200 sword fittings from the Meiji era, one of the largest collections of its kind.

Some of the museum’s highlights include “Box with Autumn Field Design,” from the 15th century, “Five Hundred Rakan,” “Nachi Waterfall,” and “Budai and Jiang Mohe in Discussing Buddhism.”

As a museum, it also hosts rotating temporary exhibitions with pieces from the Nezu archives or art that’s on loan from other collections and museums from around the world.

Admission is free for children under 18, ¥800 (~$5) for 18- and 19-year-olds, and ¥1,100 (~$7) for adults. The museum is open Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The nearest subway stop is Omotesandō station.

• Address: 6 Chome-5-1 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0062

10. Suginami Animation Museum

The Suginami Animation Museum is a university-run museum that delves into the country’s rich history of animation.

Since the museum is quite small, it’s requested that groups of 6 or more contact the museum before visiting to make reservations. However, reserving your visit time typically isn’t required. This space is designed for people of all ages and showcases recognizable characters as well as technology used in animation.

Keep in mind, however, that the museum’s on-site staff only speaks Japanese fluently, and the vast majority of the exhibit information is also in Japanese. Consider hiring an interpreter for your visit if you’d like to make sure you learn everything the space has to offer.

It’s divided into 3 main areas and 9 different displays that look into the history and future of anime and the art of animation. There’s also a workshop space for those interested in practicing animation.

Admission is free for all visitors. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The nearest train station is Ogikubo Station, which is a 20-minute walk.

• Address: 〒167-0043 Tokyo, Suginami City, Kamiogi, 3 Chome−29−5 杉並会館

11. Suntory Museum of Art

With a National Treasure and 15 cultural objects housed on-site, the Suntory Museum of Art is one of the most prestigious museums in Japan.

As its mission statement, the museum aims to showcase the nuances of life through art. This is a goal that’s accomplished in large part by showcasing, collecting, and preserving antiques that encapsulate how artistry and day-to-day life go hand-in-hand.

Though the museum has over 3,000 objects in its possession, the facility doesn’t host a permanent gallery space. Instead, the museum curates collections using its in-house items and those it receives on loan from other galleries.

This museum doesn’t focus on any particular medium or art style and has artifacts ranging from ceramics to textiles, as well as more traditional works of art.

Some notable highlights in the museum are “Namban” by Kano Sanraku, “Hie Sannō Festival and Gion Festival” by Tosa School, and “The Mouse Story,” which appeared in the Otogi zōshi illustrated tales.

Admission is free for children under 18. Ticket prices for everyone else vary based on the exhibit. The museum is open Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The nearest subway stop is Roppongi Station.

• Address: 〒107-8643 Tokyo, Minato City, Akasaka, 9 Chome−7−4 東京ミッドタウン ガレリア 3階

12. Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum

Japan’s Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum was the country’s first art museum, and in the nearly 100 years since it first opened, it’s also become one of the most important.

In 2012, when the museum underwent changes and reopened to the public, it pivoted its mission statement. Rather than just serving as a collection of preserved items, the museum now aims to be a gateway to the art world both by honoring traditions and by encouraging experimentation.

This facility houses numerous historical examples of Japanese calligraphy , as well as sculptures from the 1970s and 1980s, which were revolutionary times in the art world. In addition to these permanent exhibits, the museum hosts up to 280 temporary galleries each year.

These exhibitions showcase international artists, different styles, and pieces that are on loan from other art centers, like the British Museum, which loaned 100 historical objects to the facility in 2012.

Admission is free for everyone, but some exhibits require a separate ticket. The museum is open Tuesday through Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. The nearest train station is Ueno.

• Address: 8-36 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007

13. Tokyo National Museum

Housing exhibits in both artistic and archeological fields, the Tokyo National Museum is one of the country’s most important exhibit facilities.

Since it’s a national museum, it has a sizable collection of 120,000 objects in its possession, which range from paintings to historical artifacts. Among this sizable collection are 89 items deemed National Treasures by the government and nearly 650 other pieces considered culturally significant.

The museum is broadly divided into 7 different wings, many of which display and preserve pieces from Japan, though other Asian cultures are also represented in the collection. This space also serves as a research facility for both history and art students.

Some of the highlighted pieces on the premises include “Pine Trees,” the “Lotus Sutra” scroll, and 2 volumes of the “Engishiki” book. Additionally, temporary exhibitions are also regularly hosted on-site throughout the year, as well as numerous lectures and other educational events held in Japanese and English.

Admission is free for children under 18, seniors 70+, and visitors with disabilities, and ¥1,000 (~$7) for adults. The museum is open Sunday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. The nearest train station is Ueno.

• Address: 13-9 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8712

14. Tokyo Photographic Art Museum

First opened in 1990 as a small gallery, the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum has grown to be one of the city’s biggest and most prestigious photography-centered exhibit spaces.

Though the museum hosts temporary galleries for both Japanese and international photographers and videographers during the year, it also houses a large permanent collection. Over 36,000 pictures are split between the museum’s displays and archives at any given time.

Some prominent photographers who have showcased their work on the premises include Motoichi Kumagai, Hisae Imai, and Eiichi Moriwaki. However, even up-and-coming photographers have been featured at various points during the museum’s history.

The museum also teaches visitors about the history of photography through its work, as it often showcases early examples of photography to demonstrate how the medium has changed. These historic pieces have transformed the museum into a research facility as well as a museum.

Admission is free for everyone. However, special exhibits may require a separate ticket. The museum is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The nearest train station is Ebisu.

• Address: 〒153-0062 Tokyo, Meguro City, Mita, 1 Chome−13−3 恵比寿ガーデンプレイス内

15. Yamatane Museum of Art

Though art of all kinds is displayed at the Yamatane Museum of Art , the space particularly focuses on modern and contemporary watercolor.

Since it first opened in the 1960s, the museum’s permanent collection has grown to over 1,800 pieces. In addition to watercolor pieces, this collection includes calligraphy and early paintings of the modern art movement, as well as pieces heavily inspired by Western art.

Some of the most notable pieces on display at the Yamatane are “Tabby Cat” by Takeuchi Seihō, “Court Ladies Enjoying Wayside Chrysanthemums” by Iwasa Matabei, and “Scene from the Noh Play Kinuta” by Uemura Shōen.

This art space also regularly holds special events and exhibitions that look closely at particular themes or artists and often include pieces usually kept in the archives. These galleries rotate every few months, so each visit to the museum will be different.

Most of the information displayed throughout the museum is in English as well as Japanese to facilitate learning for international visitors.

Admission is free for children under 13, ¥900 (~$6) for university and high school students with disabilities, ¥1,000 (~$7) for university and high school students, ¥1,100 (~$8) for adult visitors with disabilities, and ¥1,300 for adults.

The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The nearest train station is Ebisu.

• Address: 3 Chome-12-36 Hiroo, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0012

We’ve indicated with each museum whether or not children, students, or seniors receive free or reduced admission. There is one other option worth considering.

The Tokyo Pass offers 3 different options: a 2-day, a 3-day, and a 5-day ticket that cost between ¥6,800 (~$46) and ¥10,300 (~$70). This pass offers holder access to a number of the city’s museums and landmarks, including the Mori Art Museum, the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, the Suntory Museum of Art, and the Tokyo National Museum.

Participation is subject to change; please verify participating museums and entry conditions before your visit.

Tokyo is famous around the world for its attractions, including its museums. From photography to national history and everything in between, there are dozens of galleries and exhibits to choose from. Hopefully, this list can help you figure out which of Tokyo’s museums you should add to your travel itinerary.

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13 best free museums in Tokyo

Here are our favourite free museums in Tokyo for art, food, history, science and even taxidermy parasites

Some of the best museums in the city such as Tokyo National Museum , Museum of Western Art and  National Museum of Nature and Science charge an admission fee, and they are worth it. But the fact is, visiting all the museums in Tokyo – and there are many – can get pricey.

The good news is, our capital has a large variety of institutions that are completely free to enter. From parasites and origami creations to picture books and chocolate, there are lots to see without paying a single yen. So spend some fun yet educational hours at these free museums, and save your budget for these life-changing ramen or omakase meals .

RECOMMENDED: Tokyo itself is also a work of art – here's where you can see the city skyline for free

Tokyo's best free museums

Intermediatheque.

Located inside the Kitte shopping mall across from Tokyo Station, Intermediatheque (jointly run by Japan Post and the University Museum of the University of Tokyo) is a hidden museum dedicated to the intersection of culture, history and science. It holds a fascinating collection of scientific specimens and cultural artifacts, from steampunk oddities to an imposing menagerie from the natural world.

You’ll stumble upon taxidermy birds and forest animals as well as skeletons in all sizes, from a frog to a minke whale. Perhaps the most compelling exhibit, though, is the story of humans’ evolutionary descent from our ape ancestors, told through progressively taller skeletons. Lovers of biology, history and design will enjoy wandering through the dimly lit halls that remind you of Hogwarts’ library.

Anime Tokyo Station

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Opened in October 2023, Anime Tokyo Station is operated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and serves to promote anime through a programme of events and exhibitions held across three floors. The facility is also a gallery of sorts, housing around 500,000 items related to 120 anime titles.

The first level is the Community Floor, where you’ll be greeted by a symbolic monument featuring images from popular anime shows including 'Doraemon', 'Lupin the Third' and 'Pokémon' . On the same floor, you’ll find touch panels that provide access to a database containing over 15,000 images from 180,000 anime episodes, which you can freely browse through.

The second floor functions as an exhibition space highlighting one anime title at a time, as well as hosting pop-up shops selling related merchandise. The basement, which has been dubbed the Collection Floor, is where you can peruse archived animation videos, audio and cels usually not available to the public.

ADMT Advertising Museum Tokyo

This fab museum is devoted to Japanese advertising, from fascinating 17th-century woodblock prints to modern product-placement techniques. Although English explanations are limited, the images largely speak for themselves. Inspired technology allows touch-screen browsing of historic ads and on-demand viewing of award-winning commercials from the past three decades. The museum also contains a library of over 100,000 digitised images.

Meiji University Museum

With its fascinating mix of exhibits across three departments – commodities, criminal materials and archeology – this basement attraction in the huge Meiji University building is one of Tokyo’s best secret museums.

The first section is dedicated to traditional Japanese handicrafts such as pottery, indigo-dyeing, bamboo work, washi paper and lacquerware. The next section, which is also the highlight, is where it gets really interesting. It reveals the torture procedures used in the second half of the 18th century to punish criminals, such as haritsuke (crucifixion), gokumon (displaying the head publicly after a decapitation) and ishidaki gougu (putting large rocks on the knees of a sitting person).

As a contrast, there are also some historical Western torture instruments including the iron maiden and the guillotine. There are English explanations, too, should you want to read up on all the details.

Meguro Parasitological Museum

This museum was opened in 1953 by Satoru Kamegai, a doctor who was overwhelmed by patients afflicted by parasites caused by the poor sanitary conditions that were widespread in post-war Japan. This unusual venture displays some 300 samples of 45,000 parasites he collected. The second floor has a display of an 8.8m tapeworm taken from the body of a 40-year-old man, with a ribbon next to it to emphasise just how long 8.8m really is.

Better yet, the shop sells parasites preserved in plastic keyrings − we are not kidding. Entrance is free, but the museum encourages donations. Go ahead and drop your contribution into the clearly marked donation box.

Suginami Animation Museum

Learn about the history of Japanese animation at this Nishi-Ogikubo museum, where you can immerse yourself in a number of exhibits. It's not all standing and staring, mind – if you're the sort who wants to get involved, you can join one of the museum's anime production workshops or pick up tips at the regular talks given by industry professionals (all in Japanese). The museum also has a library stocked with DVDs and comics that fans can enjoy, as well as an anime theatre.

Tokyo Metropolitan Memorial & Tokyo Reconstruction Museum

Following the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, some 40,000 people who had fled their homes perished on this site when sparks set clothing and bedding alight. The fire raged for nearly a day and a half, destroying three-quarters of the city and killing 140,000 people.

Seven years later, a three-storey pagoda-topped memorial building was erected; after World War II, the memorial’s name was changed to include the 100,000 people who died in Tokyo’s air raids. The Reconstruction Museum, which you'll find in a nearby building in the park, contains wartime mementos.

Police Museum

Echoing the long arm of the law, the Police Museum stretches across six floors, informing visitors about the history and the work of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department. Kids will find this an adventurous place to visit as they get to change into (mini) police uniforms upon arrival and pose beside a real patrol car, sit on an authentic Honda police motorcycle with flashing lights, or in the cockpit of a Harukaze helicopter.

On the second and third floors, kids can learn about traffic safety in a cycling simulator and tips on crime prevention through a diorama. Through the many interactive exhibits, children and parents alike are able to understand a police officer’s work, particularly by taking a look inside the replica of a small neighbourhood police station. Most of the exhibits have English captions, and audio guides in a number of languages (English, Korean, Mandarin) are available as well.

Currency Museum

Run by the Bank of Japan, this museum traces the long history of money in the country, from the use of imported Chinese coins in the late Heian period (12th century) to the creation of the yen and the central bank in the second half of the 19th century.

See beautiful calligraphy-inscribed gold oblongs from the Edo period (1603-1868), occupation-era notes from Indonesia and the Philippines, Siberian leather money and Thai leech coins. Or get the feel for some serious dosh by lifting ¥100 million (about the size of two phone books), safely stored inside a perspex box.

Tokyo – or Japan in general – is earthquake-prone, so the Tokyo Fire Department has created this ‘life safety learning centre’ in its headquarters to simulate a real emergency.

There’s first-aid training and survival tips, but the real fun is the shaking room, the smoke maze and the only chance you’ll ever have to play with fire extinguishers without getting reprimanded. The whole experience takes around two hours, and online reservations are required.

Mitaka Picture Book House in the Astronomical Observatory Forest

This community centre for kids is found on the spacious premises of Mitaka's National Astronomical Observatory, and occupies a Taisho era (1912-1926) building that used to house leading astronomers' offices.

A wide range of picture books can be viewed and browsed, while fun workshops for the young 'uns also take place regularly. Adults will want to check out the nearby observatories and a museum documenting the facility's history.

Glico Museum

Any fan of Japanese candy should know the tastes of Glico (Pocky, Pretz etc). But how much do you know about their origin and production? If you're interested in that kind of thing, Glico Group has opened a museum that lets you take tours to observe the manufacturing process of Pocky and Pretz, and even have a go at making your own original candy (tours are free but you'll have to pay ¥500 to make the candy).

The tour includes 70 minutes of adventure, during which you can look around the factory, enjoy a video clip showing how the chocolate is made, and browse booths that teach you interesting facts about the history of Glico. The museum is just a 45-minute train ride from Shinjuku Station.

Reservations essential via phone (048 593 8811) or online .

Tokyo Metropolitan Waterworks Science Museum

It might not sound too promising, but this Koto ward museum turns H2O-related science into a fun and engaging topic using immersive displays and interactive games. You’ll be greeted on arrival by the Wakuwaku Mountain and the Ukiuki Pool, where kids can play with the spray guns and climb into an underwater observation post.

In the small third-floor cinema, the walls and ceiling all become a surround screen, on which you can follow the journey of water from the forest to the city. The subsequent zones, all interactive, expand on the topics introduced in the film: the Aqua Forest focuses on water in nature, Aqua Town explains how water is used in daily life and the staff conduct water-based experiments at the Aqua Lab.

All of which goes to show that, while you might not have given it much thought until now, water science is anything but dry.

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12 Best Museums In Tokyo To Visit

Wanna know about the best museums in Tokyo to visit? Check them out below with all the details you need to know!

When narrowing down just the 10 best museums to visit in Tokyo out of the many gorgeous art houses to visit in Tokyo was hard. The city, and Japan as a whole, is rich in the cultural and the scientific aspect and never fails to amaze every single spectator. 

The best of them are scattered all over the town, each unique and fascinating to different lobes in the head. Science, art, craft and history, you’ll find enough of everything. Here’s our list of 10 of the best museums to visit in Tokyo.

Page Contents

Which is the best museum to visit in Tokyo?

There are many best museums to visit in Tokyo but I Yayoi Kumama tops the list because of its photogenic spots, infinity rooms and the displayed objects.

Yayoi Kusama Museum is dedicated to the artwork of the artist Yayoi Kusama in Shinjuku, Tokyo. It is a five-floor building designed by the Japanese architecture firm Kume Sekkei including polka dots in the building. The museum has a lot of ongoing art exhibitions throughout the year.

Top Museums In Tokyo To Visit

Tokyo national museum.

The Tokyo National Museum is one of the oldest, and largest and the best museums to visit in the Tokyo area.

Not only is it home to 110,000 artefacts sprawled across 5 different buildings, but it is also home to thousands of blossoming cherry blossom trees in the acres of park space that surrounds the museum.

The museum exhibits some of the oldest samurai swords, buddha sculptures, dazzling kimonos and some of the most exquisite woodwork prints you’ll ever see. It is a very interesting museum in Tokyo.

The Tokyo National museum also has floating exhibitions that are curated and put up for around two months at a time. These often display the art of tea ceremonies and knowledge of Buddhist sculptors.

Don’t miss out on this museum if you’re going to the best museums to visit in Tokyo.

Timings: Functions between Tuesday to Sunday. Remains closed on Mondays. 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Admission Fee: Elementary School, Junior High School and High School students admission are free. Also free for students under 18 and adults over 70. ¥410 for university students and ¥620 for adults.

Address: 13-9 Ueno Park, Taito-ku

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Nezu Museum 

Nezu Museum is located in the Minato district of Tokyo and is one of the best museums in Tokyo for it’s a private collection of pre-modern Japanese culture. The museum is beautifully designed with gardens alongside the museum. 

I went to this museum a few years back after hearing a lot of appreciation for its magical display. I was extremely impressed by the Suikinkutsu  (水琴窟) which is a water harp created by the sounds of the water droplets. 

You’ll find a great collection of Japanese and Buddhist artifacts and the nature in the museum is just breathtaking. The Nezu Museum was initially called Nezu Institute of Fine Arts which later converted to a museum. 

There is also a small cafe where you can enjoy small bites while you’re visiting the museum. 

Timings : 10 am to 5 pm Tuesday to Sunday; Monday closed 

Admission Fee : 1500 yen for Adults and 1300 yens for students 

Address : 6 Chome-5-1 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0062, Japan

Madame Tussauds Tokyo

Madame Tussauds Museum is all over the world but the Tokyo’s one is worth visiting. Madame Tussauds Tokyo is beautifully set up with different wax statues of famous celebrities. I went to Madame Tussauds and took so many selfies with the wax statues of my favorite celebrities. 

My little cousins enjoyed seeing around the museum. I was amazed at the Odaiba view of the river from the museum as it looked super pretty. 

The museum is very well maintained and follows all the Covid-19 guidelines. However, the ticket fares are quite expensive. It’s one of the best museums to visit in Tokyo.

Timings : 10 am to 4 pm Wednesday to Monday; Tuesday and Wednesday closed 

Admission Fee : 2100 yen on online booking, 2600 on the day of visit

Address : Japan, 〒135-0091 Tokyo, Minato City, Daiba, 1 Chome−6−1 デックス東京ビーチアイランドモール３F

Ghibli Museum

Ghibli is a small museum in Tokyo but wait, it’s also one of the best museums to visit in Tokyo.

It would be a difficult thing for me to do, to call it simply a museum. Entering the Ghibli Museum is like walking into an immersive world to experience some of the overwhelming work of Japanese artists.

This museum is a tribute to one of the most renowned and engaging animation Ghibli Studios. It houses original artworks, recreations of the  16-foot-tall robot soldier from the animation film Castle in the Sky, and has tickets made of the 35mm film roll strips.

Those that are interested in how the conceptualization of these films happen, colour scheming and other creative presentations, keep an eye out for the rotating exhibits that take place in the Ghibli Museum.

Timings: The Museum is closed on most Tuesdays. Functions between 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Admission Fee: Al tickets need to be bought in advance for these prices: ¥100 for ages 4-6, ¥400 for ages 7-12, ¥700 for 13-18, and ¥1000 for all other adults

Address: 1-1-83 Simorenjaku, Mitaka-shi

National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan)

For all the science and tech geeks, this is among the best museums to visit in Tokyo for you!

All those wanderers who have an inclination towards science, technological advancements, discoveries and an entrepreneurial affinity, this has to be a pitstop. I’m calling it a pit stop because it’s a mere 15-minute walk from both, the Daiba and the Tokyo Teleport stations.

National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation , created in 2001, has positioned itself into three parts. The first, Explore the Frontiers section attests to space exploration by actually walking into a model of the International Space Station.

The Discover the Earth section boasts a sculpture of the earth with LED panels as the whole surface. Finally, the Create your Future exhibit is an educational space about the planet’s sustainability and a robot-centric future.

The highlight has to be the ASIMO robot by Honda. Check out its unparalleled capability to kick a ball and run around the hall. This is definitely one of the best museums to visit in Tokyo if you’re into science.

Timings: Open on all days. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission Fee: ¥210 for visitors under 18, ¥620 for adults

Address: 2-3-6 Aomi, Koto-ku

Yayoi Kusama Museum

If you want to get to see the inside of this highly coveted museum, visit their online portal right now and grab your 90-minute window to wonder right now. They run out quite fast.

This museum became an internet sensation so big, that they had to put a limit to how many people can be inside at a time. Every single corner of the museum is a photogenic spot, so no wonder serial hashtaggers and upbeat Instagram influencers all want to spend their 90minute window as optimally as they can.

Yayoi Kusama museum’s newest installation of the ‘infinity room’ has mirrors looking right back at you, making you feel like you’re stuck in inception.

Timings: Functions from Thursday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission Fee: All tickets need to be bought online in advance at the beginning of the month. The ticket’s validity is only 90 minutes. ¥610 for ages 6-18, ¥1,100 for adults.

Address: 107 Bentencho, Shinjuku City

Mori Art Museum

The Mori Art Museum is the best art museum in Tokyo known for its thought-provoking curation and instagrammable nooks and corners. 

This museum might fall under a little steeper side of the cultural attractions, but the setting on the 52nd and 53rd floors of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower makes it all worth it.

That height gives a breathtaking 360 view of the city from the panoramic glass windows. Each installation stays for an exhibit that lasts upto two to three months. The exhibits vary between peculiar and intricate paintings and artworks of avant-garde artists that make art locally.

Except for the Skydeck at the Mori Art Museum, the whole place is wheelchair accessible.

Timings: Everyday from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Tuesday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission Fee: Ages 4 – Junior high students ¥600, High school students and University students ¥1200, Adults ¥1800, Seniors above the age 65 ¥1500. A group of 15 people get discounted prices.

Address:  106-6150 Tokyo, Minato City, Roppongi, 6 Chome−10−1, Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 53

Tokyo Photographic Art Museum

If you’re looking for a place you can unwind while drinking in some eye-soothing material, Tokyo Photographic Art Museum is the place for you. 

It’s not as popular and touristy as the Tokyo National Museum, so you’ll appreciate the space to move around, stop for a minute and take in the wall-sized vastness. 

It’s a little more popular than the Tokyo modern art museums and is one of the best museums to visit in Tokyo if you love art.

A lot of effort has been out from the curators in order to set every piece in place. The signage by the pieces of artwork are not necessarily in English, so people from out of town might have a bit of a hard time understanding the details, but the artwork itself is so magnificent, it speaks for itself.

Timings: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day. The last entry is 30 minutes before closing.

Admission Fee: Varies depending on season and exhibit. You can find the details here .

Address: 153-0062 Tokyo, Meguro City, Mita, 1 Chome

Bunkamura Museum of Art

Don’t miss out on Bunkamura as it is one of the best museums to visit in Tokyo for its concert hall, theatre etc.

If only one thing could be labelled dynamic, it would be the Bunkamura Museum of Art. The place is a museum, concert hall, theatre and cinema all in one. The 837 square meter space is completely pillarless. 

The ceiling is at least 4 metres tall, and the walls are movable. Yes, you heard that right. If you love art, this is among the best museums to visit in Tokyo.

They could convert the museum into a display of cultural exhibits or turn it into a screening for celebrating art films. Calling it anything less than a cultural complex would be an injustice.

Timings: The closing timings vary every exhibit, but the museum opens at 10 a.m. 

Admission Fee: The cost varies per exhibit

Address: 2-24-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku

Advertising Museum Tokyo

This museum is definitely one of the best museums to visit in Tokyo that  provides a window into the minds of society as a whole and gives insight into how people think in Japan and what works for them. 

The permanent exhibits that are displayed in the Advertising Museum of Tokyo date back to the Edo period and even beyond that. It is one of the cool museums in Tokyo and definitely, one of the best museums to visit in Tokyo for me.

The Advertising Museum Tokyo also houses an elaborate library that contains all the advertising and marketing materials from advertising tycoons of Japan. This is one of the best museums to visit in Tokyo if you’re into advertising.

Timings: 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Closed on Sundays and Mondays. 

Admission Fee: Free of cost

Address: 2 8, 1-chōme, Higashishinbashi Minato City

Edo-Tokyo Museum

Looking for something that will exclusively shed light on the creation of Japan and all of its glorious past? The Edo-Tokyo club is the cosmopolitan club of historical Japan, one of the best museums to visit in Tokyo.

Be amazed by installations that depict the rise of the city from ashes. You’ll find the original and recreated maps that date back to 400 years ago. 

The way to the permanent exhibit includes a walk on the recreated Nihonbashi Bridge. On the walk, they look at the lost landmarks during the rise of the city. This is one of the best museums to visit in Tokyo for its rich and historical presentation.

Timings: During the months of April to September: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., During the months of October to March: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Admission Fee: Free for students of elementary school and younger. ¥320 for college students, ¥400 for adults

Address: 3-7-1 Sakuracho, Koganei-shi, Tokyo (inside Koganei Park)

Suntory Museum of Art

The Suntory Museum of Art is one of the best museums to visit in Tokyo and has won hearts since 1961. They have a display of over 3000 articles that detail Japanese life. It is centred around the theme ‘Art of Life’. The museum hardly has any permanent exhibits. 

It keeps rotating and displaying works of art such as paintings, glassware and prints. One of the best museums to visit in Tokyo which has a tea ceremony room in it.

Some people love to visit the museum on Thursday because the museum hosts a traditional tea ceremony at its in-house Genchoan Tea Ceremony Room. This will definitely be your favourite and one of the best museums to visit in Tokyo.

Timings: Timings on Sunday to Thursday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday and Saturday closing time extends to 8 p.m.

Admission Fee: Free admission for students under the age of junior high school students. Otherwise the entry fee depends on the exhibit.

Address: 9-7-4, Akasaka, Minato-ku

Artsy Museums in Tokyo

Do check out most of the best museums to visit in Tokyo that I’ve mentioned. You will have a lot of fun for sure. Have a great time!

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Hiya! I’m the main author of Japan Truly. I love everything Japan and love testing out Japanese products, be it skincare and makeup or gadgets! You’ll find reviews of some of the best selling Japanese products (tried and tested) right here!

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Japan Travel & Culture Guide

10 Best Museums to Visit in Tokyo

The history of Japan is one full of events, culture, natural wonders, and unique personal stories unlike those found anywhere else. As a great crossroads of history, commerce, and culture, Tokyo is home to many museums that offer great opportunities to experience and learn so much about Japan!

Whether you are deeply interested in the subject or just looking for a calm break from a busy trip with a packed itinerary, a museum visit can be a great addition to your schedule.

Here are ten of the best museums in Tokyo . Check them out to see if they are a good fit for your trip!

1. Tokyo National Museum

The Tokyo National Museum is one of the top museums in Japan and is also the oldest and largest of these prestigious institutions.

It was established in 1972. Over the years, it has accumulated a vast collection of 110,000 art and cultural artifacts. The museum complex consists of six buildings, each hosting a different section of the collection.

English-speaking visitors can easily get English information and audio guides for their visit. There are also teahouses and a Japanese garden on the grounds.

You can get to the Tokyo National Museum by going to Ueno Park , about a five to ten-minute walk from Ueno Station . Permanent exhibitions cost 100 yen, while special exhibitions are between 1000 to 1500 yen.

2. National Museum of Nature and Science

Also located in Ueno Park , the National Museum of Nature and Science has more than 25,000 exhibits about everything under the sun and some things beyond it.

The museum’s goal is to foster “the coexistence of the human race and nature”.

Enjoy exhibits that focus on dinosaurs, modern animals, astronomy, modern Japanese ecosystems, and more. One of the highlights is the museum’s domed 360-degree movie theater.

There is also a children’s area and a museum gift shop. General admission costs 630 yen.

3. Ghibli Museum

A perfect museum for the young and young at heart, the Ghibli Museum transports visitors into the beautiful and creative worlds of Studio Ghibli .

The museum building itself is something out of a storybook or one of the studio’s films. Inside, the charming exhibits take visitors into the world of animation.

There are several floors to visit, full of winding staircases, tiny doors, and a rooftop garden at the top of it all. The Ghibli Museum is located in the western suburbs of Tokyo, on the edge of Inokashira Park .

There is a shuttle bus from Mitaka Station, though you can walk from there as well as Kichijoji Station.

Tickets sell out fast and can be quite complex (though well worth it). Tickets go on sale every month on the tenth for the following months. They sell out very quickly, so be sure to get them early!

Here you can find some amazing Anime and Manga museums in Japan.

4. Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum

This open-air museum features a wide range of historic buildings from throughout Tokyo and its long history.

All of the buildings found here were either carefully relocated here or constructed on sight for maximum historical authenticity. Most of the buildings are from the Meiji Period (1868-1912).

The museum is located on the edge of Koganei Park . Take either the Seibu Shinjuku Line to Hana-Koganei Station (280 yen) or JR Chuo Line to Musashi-Koganei Station from Shinjuku Station.

The park is then a short bus ride away or a 15-30 minute walk away. Admission costs 400 yen.

5. MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM: teamLab Borderless

Creative, intriguing, and often wonderous, this museum displays art created by the art collective teamLab. There are over 10,000 square meters to explore.

The artwork is highly interactive and immersive, allowing you to visit incredible landscapes not found anywhere else, like “Forest of Resonating Lamps” and “Flutter of Butterflies Beyond Borders, Floating Nest”.

Admission costs 3200 yen. To get there, take the Yurikamome Line to Aomi Station and head through the north exit. The museum is a very short walk away.

6. Edo-Tokyo Museum

The unique building that houses this museum can be found in the Ryokogu District.

It covers the incredible past of Tokyo from the Edo Period until recent times. This includes not just major events, but the way of life that was lived by Tokyo’s many denizens in days gone by.

There are many models of tons, figurines, and even life-0sized figures that can help you better understand the history of this incredible city.

You can access the Edo-Tokyo Museum by walking five minutes from Ryokgou Station. Admission costs 600 yen, with special exhibits costing extra.

7. Tokyo Photographic Art Museum

This three-story museum features 33,000 still and moving images.

This museum underwent substantial renovations in 2016 and is state-of0the-art. The genres in its collections range from landscape photography to historical events to fashion photography.

You can take a taxi to get there, or you can take the JR Yamanote Line or Hibiya subway line to Ebisu Station. The museum is a short walk from there.

8. The Railway Museum

Rail has played a key part of Japan’s history and its incredible economic development. The Railway Museum was opened in 2007 by JR East .

Visitors can learn how to operate a train using simulators and learn about how rail technology in Japan has changed over the years.

You can see a large collection of old train cars as well as one of Japan’s largest dioramas. There are also outdoor play areas for children.

You can get to this museum by going to Tetsudo Hakubutsukan Station, where it sits just outside. Take a three-minute ride from Omiya Station by the New Shuttle and you’ll be there!

Read our guide on the best Railway Museums to visit in Japan .

9. Nezu Museum

This unique art museum contains over 7,400 works and focuses on Buddhist art. Besides art, there is also a beautiful Japanese garden. It is a serene experience.

You can also enjoy lunch or tea at the Nezu Café, which sits inside the garden.

To get there, take the Ginza Line, Chiyoda Line, or Hanzomon Line to Omtoe-Sando Station, then walk about 8 minutes to the museum. Admission cost varies.

10. Mori Art Museum

You can find these museums high atop the Mori Tower , on its 52 nd and 53 rd floors. The contemporary exhibits largely come from Asian artists. The exhibits are not permanent but constantly change.

It’s a dynamic art exhibit and you never know quite what amazing thing you’ll find there. The museum’s restaurant occasionally offers themed menus to go with some exhibitions.

The view is also incredible, giving you a beautiful look a Tokyo from the museum’s two observation decks. One is indoors, the Tokyo City View , while the Sky Deck is the highest open-air observation deck in Japan and a popular spot for stargazing. Ticket prices vary.

Take the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line to Roppongi Station , which is directly linked to the museum’s location in Roppongi Hills, or take the Toei Subway Oedo Line and walk 4 minutes from Roppongi Station or 5 minutes from Azabu-Juban Station.

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10 Best Museums in Tokyo

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Stretching endlessly towards the horizon, this massive metropolis is the perfect place for you to embrace and explore Japan’s unique cultural heritage and, with some of the best museums in the country, visitors to Tokyo will love all that there is to see and do.

With amazing art collections scattered about the city and numerous institutions exploring the culture and history of Japan, you can be learning about some of the country’s amazing artworks one minute and wandering around a reconstructed old town the next.

A creative and innovative place, Tokyo also has its fair share of science and technology museums, which will leave visitors itching to see what future advancements are just around the corner. Whether it is beer that you are interested in or samurai swords and calligraphy, Tokyo’s museums have it all!

10. Miraikan

Known to many people simply as Miraikan, the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation is devoted to exploring, promoting and celebrating the latest cutting-edge technologies and discoveries that impact our world.

Looking at the most recent advancements in science, visitors can experience how humans have impacted various environments; the creativity and innovation on show is breathtaking. There are loads of amazing exhibits for you to explore. Among the many highlights are the stunning Geo-Cosmos – a LED replica of Earth – and the ASIMO robot, which appears so human-like in its movements.

Before heading off to explore the rest of what Tokyo has to offer, make sure to journey around the Shinkai 6500 – a research submersible which allows human to venture over two-hundred meters below the surface of the ocean. Needless to say, the cutting-edge inventions on show at Miraikan will surely wow you and leave you excited for what the future will bring.

9. Museum of Yebisu Beer

Located in Yebisu Garden Place, the former brewery was turned into a museum in 2010 and documents how Yebisu Beer came to be one of the most popular drinks in Japan, with posters and old advertisements on display.

The company became so renowned that the name of the area around it – Ebisu – was derived from the famous brewery. Nowadays, visitors can enjoy walking around the well-thought-out exhibitions, with the tasting salon being the undoubted highlight. Here, you can sample some of the delicious Yebisu Beers on offer.

8. National Museum of Nature and Science

Located in Ueno Park, the National Museum of Nature and Science is a fascinating place to visit. Its extensive collections allow visitors to explore the natural world before looking at how technology has evolved over time to help create the exhibits present before them.

A massive facility, there is so much to see and do in the museum, and the interactive installations really bring some of the displays to life. With lots of ancient fossils for you to peruse, as well as a huge range of fauna and flora on show, the museum is as entertaining as it is interesting and educational.

Having explored the natural wonders of our planet, you can then journey through some of mankind’s achievements, learning about how various tools, instruments, and writing have helped create our world of today. After enjoying the wealth of exhibitions and galleries on offer, walking around the delightful Ueno Park is a relaxing way to cap off a lovely day.

7. Mori Art Museum

Located in the Roppongi Hills Mall, the museum’s stunning location on the 52nd and 53rd floors of the gigantic Mori Tower means that visitors can enjoy much more than the fantastic art collection; the views from up high offer some of the best panoramas of Tokyo in the city.

Dedicated to contemporary art, the Mori Art Museum has a brilliant range of artworks on display; its rotating exhibitions are certainly worth checking out – they feature anything from Middle Eastern Art to local artist’s latest pieces and cutting-edge video art.

It stays open late, so visitors can enjoy splendid views over Tokyo while relaxing with a drink in the Mado Lounge as nighttime falls over the city and the neon lights begin to flicker on. A great experience, the Mori Art Museum is much more than the artworks that is has on display.

6. Nezu Museum

Named after the successful businessman whose extensive private collection led to its founding, the Nezu Museum is a wonderful place to visit. With seven rotating exhibits on offer, visitors will never get bored with the fantastic art on display.

Home to over 7,400 artworks, the museum’s collection is so large that only some of its artifacts and art pieces are on show permanently, with the highlights being the stunning Buddhist statues and lovely Bronze figurines from ancient China.

Focusing on pre-modern Japanese and East-Asian art, there is a wide range of art forms included in the galleries. Visitors to the museum can enjoy sculptures and ceramics, wooden and bamboo art pieces, or paintings and calligraphy, depending on what exhibition is on when they visit. On top of all that, the building in which the collection is housed is lovely.

5. National Museum of Western Art

A very unique museum to visit in Japan, this awesome institution is the only national museum in the country that is dedicated to the exploration and promotion of Western art. The collection on show is stunning for the breadth of artworks that it contains.

Assembled by Matsukata Kojiro – a wealthy shipping magnate – the museum covers nearly eight-hundred years of Western culture. Visitors are able to enjoy many of Europe’s seminal art pieces that are exhibited in its galleries.

Whether it is Monet’s iconic Water Lilies painting or Ruben’s masterpiece ‘Two Sleeping Children,’ the National Museum of Western Art will delight guests with all that it has to offer.

4. The National Art Center

Opened in 2007, the National Art Center is unlike most other museums in the world as it does not actually have its own permanent collection that it exhibits to the public. Instead, the center only hosts special exhibitions, which means that there is a constantly changing range of art collections for locals and tourists to enjoy.

Featuring the largest exhibition space in the whole country, the National Art Center is well worth checking out; its ever-changing features mean that it is always a fun and fresh place to visit.

3. Samurai Museum

Full of amazing suits of armor and samurai blades, the Samurai Museum is loads of fun to visit and you can even try on the old costumes and wield the swords yourself! Offering a fascinating insight into the life of the samurai as well as their history and culture, visitors will love all that there is to see and do in the museum.

On top of the fantastic exhibitions and panels that explore the lives of influential samurai and place them in their historical context, trained actors demonstrate how the samurai would have fought.

The performances that feature such intricate sword-play are certainly entertaining to watch. An immersive experience, visitors can also try their hand at calligraphy and in doing so learn more about Japanese culture.

2. Edo-Tokyo Museum

Dedicated to the Edo/Tokugawa era, this huge museum offers an interesting look at the history and culture of Japan from 1603-1868. The vast models on show are certainly worth visiting for the amazing range of historic buildings that are displayed.

Featuring life-sized models, wandering around the preserved and reconstructed buildings really feels as if you have stepped back in time. The old items on show are faithful to the epochs in which they would have been around in.

With a stunning replica of the Nihonbashi Bridge among the museum’s many attractions, visitors of all ages will enjoy exploring this fantastic museum. In the process, they will learn about how Tokyo became the behemoth that it is today and how Japan came to embrace Western influences, among other things.

On top of its wealth of artifacts, objects, and historical buildings, the museum also hosts music and entertainment performances which bring to life Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

1. Tokyo National Museum

A lovely museum to wander around, the Tokyo National Museum is one of the oldest and indeed most popular in the whole country. As such, it is a must-see when in the bustling metropolis. With a huge collection of artifacts and artworks, the stunning range of paintings, historical objects, and archaeological pieces will enlighten you to various aspects of East-Asian and Japanese culture.

Meandering around statues of the Buddha and exploring some of the other national treasures on display is a fascinating experience and, with over 100,000 items the Tokyo National Museum certainly is an entertaining and interesting visit for all.

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Tokyo National Museum

The Tokyo National Museum (��������������, Tōkyō Kokuritsu Hakubutsukan) is the oldest and largest of Japan's top-level national museums, which also include the Kyoto National Museum , the Nara National Museum and the Kyushu National Museum . It was originally established in 1872 at Yushima Seido Shrine and moved to its current location in Ueno Park a few years later.

The Tokyo National Museum features one of the largest and best collections of art and archeological artifacts in Japan, made up of over 100,000 individual items including nearly a hundred national treasures. At any one time, about 4000 different items from the permanent museum collection are on display. In addition, visiting temporary exhibitions are also held regularly. Good English information and audio guides are available.

The large museum complex is home to six separate buildings, each large enough to be considered a museum on its own, which specialize in different types of art and exhibitions. The main Honkan building was opened in 1938 and exhibits a variety of Japanese artwork from ancient times to the 19th century including antique Buddhist statues, painted sliding doors , scrolls, ceramics and maps in addition to cultural items such as masks, costume, armor and weapons among other historical artifacts.

To the left of the Honkan stands the Hyokeikan , the oldest building on the grounds, which was built in 1909 in celebration of the Taisho Emperor 's wedding. The Hyokeikan is a representative example of Western-style architecture during the Meiji Period and is registered as an important cultural property. The building is primarily used for temporary exhibitions and has undergone several renovations over the years to maintain the structure.

To the right of the Honkan stands the Toyokan building, designed in 1968 by Japanese architect Taniguchi Yoshiro. The building features galleries displaying Asian art and artifacts from China, Korea, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, India and Egypt. Behind the Honkan stands the Heiseikan , a fairly recent addition to the museum built to commemorate the then Crown Prince's wedding in 1993. It houses exhibitions on ancient Japanese cultures as well as large scale special exhibitions.

The museum's newest building, the Horyuji Homotsukan or the Gallery of Horyuji Treasures, was built to house a collection of religious objects consisting mostly of small, intricate statues and copper relief images donated by Horyuji Temple in Nara . The building was designed by Taniguchi Yoshio (son of Toyokan architect Taniguchi Yoshiro) whose minimalist style can also be seen in his other projects including the Heisei Chishinkan at the Kyoto National Museum , the Sea Life Aquarium at Tokyo 's Kasai Rinkai Park and the Mimoca Art Museum in Marugame , as well as the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Finally, just outside the museum grounds proper stands the Kuroda Memorial Hall , which was built from donations by Kuroda Seiki, a Japanese artist who is known as the father of modern Western-style painting in Japan. The hall houses a rotating collection of Kuroda's paintings and sketches as well as other artwork that has been donated by his family. In addition to the exhibition halls, the Tokyo National Museum also offers a Japanese-style garden and teahouses (open to the public in spring and autumn) located behind the Honkan, as well as multiple shops and cafes spread out around the grounds.

Getting there and around

The Tokyo National Museum is located in Ueno Park , a 5-10 minute walk from Ueno Station.

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Must-Visit Museums in Tokyo

Best Museums in Tokyo by Area

There are about 100 museums and galleries in Tokyo in various genres such as modern art, history, digital art, science and anime. In this article, I have listed must-visit museums in Tokyo by area. Don’t miss a chance to visit the world-class museums while you are in Tokyo!

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.

Shibuya/Harajuku Area

– yebisu beer museum.

The museum dedicated to one of the leading Japanese beer brands, Yebisu. Yebisu Beer Museum (ヱビスビール記念館) is a free admission museum with the gallery displaying the history of the premium beer brand. There is a paid guide tour through the museum including tasting of 2 kinds of beer.

Related article: Museum of YEBISU BEER : Tour and Beer Tasting!

– Nezu Museum

Nezu Museum (根津美術館) is an art museum located in Aoyama area, Tokyo. The museum displays the private collection of over 7400 pre-modern Japanese and East Asian art pieces by Nazu Kaichiro. Besides the impressively large collection of artworks, the museum’s architecture design by the Japanese architect Kengo Kuma is also highly regarded.

Related article: Nezu Museum: Feel the Beauty of Japanese Art

– Yamatane Museum of Art

Yamatane Museum of Art (山種美術館) is the first museum in the country speclaized in Nihonga (Japanese painting) and displays a collection of contemporary Japanese art and watercolour painting. The museum was founded by Taneji Yamazaki who also domated a number of artworks from his collection.

▶ Book Admission Ticket to Yamatane Museum of Art

– Meguro Parasitological Museum

Meguro Parasitological Museum (目黒寄生虫館) one of the most unique, and definitely the creepiest museum in Tokyo showcasing over 300 preserved specimens of parasites in the 2-story building as well as the educational overview about parasites. The museum is admission free.

Related article: Meguro Parasitological Museum in Tokyo

Shinjuku Area

– yayoi kusama museum.

Yayoi Kusama is one of the most influential female artists alive today. Her very own museum, Yayoi Kusama Museum (草間彌生美術館)  has opened in Shinjuku area in 2017 and displays some of the most impressive artworks of hers in the 5 storied building including a library, rooftop gallery and a museum shop.

Related article: Yayoi Kusama Museum in Shinjuku, Tokyo

-Fire Museum Tokyo

One of the most unique museums in Tokyo, Fire Museum Tokyo (消防博物館) exhibits the history of firefighting in Tokyo from Edo Period to modern days, and a collection of vintage fire engines worldwide.

Website: https://www.tfd.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/eng/e_museum.html

Roppongi/Akasaka Area

-mori art museum.

Mori Art Museum (森美術館) is a modern contemporary art museum and its gallery is situated at the 53rd floor of Roppongi Hills Mori Tower. The museum holds temporary exhibitions through the year in various genres such as fashion, architecture, installations around the world. Some of the exhibitions can be entered with the same tickets for the Tokyo City View observation deck.

Tickets ▶ Roppongi Hills Mori Tower Tokyo City View & Sky Deck

– The National Art Center, Tokyo

The National Art Center, Tokyo/NACT (国立新美術館) is one of the largest museums in Japan, designed by the renowned architect Kisho Kurokawa. The museum does not have collections or permanent exhibits, but only displays temporary exhibitions sponsored and curated by other organizations.

Website: https://www.nact.jp/english/

-Suntory Museum of Art

Suntory Museum of Art (サントリー美術館) is an art museum located in Tokyo Midtown. It’s owned by the Suntory corporation, a famous Japanese beverage company. The museum mainly focuses on the collection theme of the art works that express “Art in life”.

Website: https://www.suntory.co.jp/sma/

Related article: Roppongi Art Triangle: 3 Tokyo’s Cutting-edge Art Museums

– MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM: teamLab Borderless

teamLab Borderless (チームラボ ボーダーレス), formerly located in Odaiba area, has been one of top attractions in Tokyo visited by millions of visitors from all around the world. Despite its popularity, it closed in 2022 summer, however reopened in a new location in early 2024, inside the Azabudai Hills, a new landmark of Tokyo. The digital art museum offers an immersive art experience with colourful and futuristic art installations.

▶ Book Tickets for teamLab Borderless TOKYO, Azabudai Hills

Related article: MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM: teamLab Borderless to Reopen

-Shueisha Manga Art Heritage Gallery

The largest publishing company, Shueisha is known for publishing a large number of legendary anime series such as Dragon Ball, Naruto, One Piece, Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen which were serialized on their manga magazines such as Weekly Shonen Jump. Shueisha’s first permanent exhibition, Shueisha Manga Art Heritage Gallery opened its door in 2023, exhibiting exclusive manga artworks that are produced by the manga artists and the publisher. It’s located inside Azabudai Hills, a brand-new multi-use complex of three skyscrapers.

More info: Shueisha Manga Art Heritage Tokyo Gallery

Central Area

– national museum of modern art, tokyo.

The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo (東京国立近代美術館), a.k.a. MOMAT is the foremost museum featuring modern Japanese art in Tokyo and one of the lagest museums in Japan. The museum is home to over 13,000 pieces of artworks including masterpieces and National Important Cultural Properties.

▶ Buy Admission Ticket to The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo

Official Website: http://www.momat.go.jp/english/

– The Currency Museum of the Bank of Japan

The Currency Museum of the Bank of Japan (貨幣博物館) is a museum about Japanese currency. It displays currency and currency-related historical and cultural materials in the area divided by era. It’s situated in front of the Bank of Japan building.

Website: https://www.imes.boj.or.jp/cm/

Asakusa/Ueno Area

– samurai ninja museum tokyo with experience.

SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM TOKYO With Experience is a new attraction in Tokyo. Located in Asakusa in SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM TOKYO you can do several unique activities and feel like an samurai or ninja for a day, from wearing authentic samurai armor to ninja training, including a two-floor museum.

Related article: SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM TOKYO With Experience

– National Museum of Western Art

The National Museum of Western Art (国立西洋美術館) is a public art gallery specializing in art from the Western tradition located inside Ueno Park.  In 2016, the main building of the museum was registered to the UNESCO World Heritage site as an Important Cultural Property as one of the 17 works by the Swiss architect, Le Corbusier.

Related article: National Museum of Western Art: The World Heritage Museum in Tokyo!

– Tokyo National Museum

Tokyo National Museum (東京国立博物館) is the oldest and largest museum in Japan established in 1872. The museum houses a massive collection of over 100,000 artworks including 87 Japanese National Treasures 610 Important Cultural Properties.

Related article: Japan’s Oldest and Largest Museum: Tokyo National Museum

– National Museum of Nature and Science

The National Museum of Nature and Science (国立科学博物館) is located at the northeast of Ueno Park. It was established in 1877, and it’s today’s one of the oldest museums in Japan. The museum offers comprehensive exhibition of natural history and the history of science and technology.

Related article: National Museum of Nature and Science: Meet the Dinosaurs in Tokyo!

– Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum

Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum (東京都美術館) is an art museum situated within Ueno Park, Tokyo, mainly displaying temporary art exhibitions in various genres by Japanese and foreign artists.

Related article: Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum

-Shitamachi Museum

Shitamachi Museum (下町風俗資料館) is located on the shores of Shinobazu Pond within Ueno Park. It’s dedicated to the traditional culture and lifestyles of Tokyo’s old town (Shitamachi in Japanese) with life-size replicas of houses and a collection of a variety of documents and objects.

Website: http://www.momat.go.jp/english/

-Tokyo-Edo Museum

Edo-Tokyo Museum (江戸東京博物館) showcases the 400 years history and the culture of Tokyo during Edo Period such as the life size replica of the buildings ans the scale model of towns and buildings from Edo to Showa periods.

Related article: Edo-Tokyo Museum: Experience the Great History of Tokyo!

– Katsushika Hokusai Museum

Katsushika Hokusai Museum (すみだ北斎美術館) is a museum dedicated to the legendary Ukiyoe painter from Edo Period, Hokusai Katsushika and showcases the full-scale replica of his work such as  “The Great Wave off Kanagawa” and “Fine Wind, Clear Morning”.

Related article: Sumida Hokusai Museum: Enjoy Ukiyo-e Art in Tokyo!

-Museum of Contemporary Art, Tokyo

Museum of Contemporary Art, Tokyo ( 東京都現代美術館 )  is a contemporary art museum located in Kiba Park in Koto, Tokyo. The museum focuses on modern/contemporary art and displays a wide range of artworks from Japan and abroad.

Official Website: https://www.mot-art-museum.jp/en/

Odaiba Area

– national museum of emerging science.

National Museum of Emerging Science (日本科学未来館) a.k.a. Miraikan is a science museum created by Japan’s Science and Technology Agency. It displays the cutting edge technology and the history of innovationw with exhibitions, hands-on activities, theatres and demonstrations.

▶ Book National Museum of Nature and Science Ticket in Tokyo 

Related article: MIRAIKAN: Tokyo National Museum of Emerging Science

-Madame Tussauds Tokyo

The unique museum from London showcasing wax sculptures of celebrities and famous figures with numbers of branch museums across the world. At Madame Tussauds Tokyo (マダムタッソー 東京), there are about 70 wax sculptures of both Japanese and international superstars.

▶ Book tickets for Madame Tussauds Tokyo!

-Unko Museum

Unko Museum (うんこミュージアム) which literally means the “Poop Museum”, is an unique yet entertaining museum located in Odaiba area, Tokyo. The museum combines poop and the Kawaii culture and offers poop themed art, goods, and interactive contents in a colourful entertainment space.

▶ Book Unko Museum Admission Ticket

-Tokyo Trick Art Museum

Tokyo Trick Art Museum (東京トリックアート迷宮館) is a quirky and entertaining museum offering numbers of optical illusions and 3D paintings. Guests can interact with an unique art experience and take a lot of funny pictures.

▶ Book Tokyo Trick Art Museum Admission Ticket

– Ghibli Museum

Ghibli Museum (三鷹の森ジブリ美術館) is a top visited tourist site in Tokyo, dedicated to Studio Ghibli, the world’s famous animation production founded by Hayao Miyazaki. The museum showcases the art and works of Studio Ghibli animations including temporary exhibitions, cafe, museum shop, play room and garden.

Related article: Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo

-teamLab Planets TOKYO

teamLab Planets TOKYO DMM (チームラボプラネッツ TOKYO DMM) is another digital art museum produced by teamLab, which is situated in Toyosu area, only a short walk from Toyosu Market.  It opened shortly after the teamLab Borderless in Odaiba area in 2018. The museum is based on the concept of body immersive, which visitors can feel and enjoy the art works by using not only mind but also several senses through the body.

▶ Book teamLab Planets TOKYO in Toyosu Now!!

More info: TeamLab Planets Tokyo in Toyosu

-Doraemon Museum

Fujiko F Fujio Museum (藤子・F・不二雄ミュージアム), known as the Doraemon Museum is the museum dedicated to the work of Fujiko F Fujio, one of the most famous manga/anime creators from Japan, whose notable work is Doraemon. The museum is located in Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture, which can be accessed within 20 mins from the central Tokyo.

▶︎Book your tickets in advance to Fujiko F Fujio Museum!

-snoopy museum.

Snoopy Museum (スヌーピーミュージアム) once opened in Roppingi area, Tokyo from 2016 to 2018, then reopened in Machida City in late 2019. The museum display the art of Peanuts through original comic materials and other exhibits as well as special exhibitions. The museum also has a merchandise store and a cafe.

Related article: Snoopy Museum Tokyo Newly Opened in Machida

-Shunkaen Bonsai Museum

Shunkaen Bonsai Museum (春花園BONSAI美術館) showcases the extensive collection of artistic Bonsai trees in a gallery and a traditional Japanese garden with pond. Some cultural activities are also available at the museum such as wearing Kimono and tea ceremony.

▽Check the list of the best museums around Japan including trendy art museums and classic spots!▽

For more information about things to do in Tokyo, check these links!!

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"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have spend almost a decade living and exploring countries across the world. Based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling with my readers. I hope my stories help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈

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Tokyo National Museum: The Complete Guide

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There are few nations in the world with as vivid a global identity as Japan. When we think of Japan, we have very clear images that flash up in our minds: geisha and samurai; Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines; works of calligraphy and ukiyo-e paintings; tea ceremonies and sushi; and surely several more. The Tokyo National Museum is a museum dedicated to all that makes Japan the country it is today and houses the largest collection of Japanese art in the world. It is a place of history and art and a celebration of every era of Japanese history and everything created along the way. To explore the Tokyo National Museum is to discover Japan. Here is a complete guide to the museum, tips for making the most of it, and how to get there.

History and Background

Open for about 150 years, since 1871, Tokyo National Museum, also known colloquially as Tohaku, is Japan’s oldest art museum and holds more than 116,000 artifacts that trace the history of Japan. Of these pieces, 89 are national treasures of Japan, and 650 are items of cultural importance. These artifacts are spread across six buildings within the grounds, with each building to be considered a museum in its own right. Because of its sheer size, this a museum you’ll want to dedicate at least half a day to if you can’t make repeat visits, and prioritize areas you are particularly interested in.

The gardens of the Tokyo National Museum are also extensive and open for visitors in the spring and fall for leaf-peeping and admiring the cherry blossoms. Special points of interest are present in the garden such as the five-storied pagoda, the gravestones of the Arima clan, and the remains of the Jurin-in Azekura Storehouse.

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What to See and Do

Being so extensive, the museum provides plenty of insight and inspiration for whatever period of Japanese history you’re interested in, and it covers all regions and epochs of the country including the Kingdom of Okinawa and Ainu of the North. 

The first area to explore is the Honkan Building (or Japanese Gallery), which opened in 1938. The building itself is an important cultural property due to the western architectural style paired with a Japanese tiled roof. The multi-floor building houses Japanese artwork from thousands of years ago to the present day including ceramics, shoji screens, maps, clothing (including samurai armor and kimonos) as well as weapons. It’s an impressive and inspiring collection that will leave you eager for the next building. If you only have time for one of the museum’s buildings, make it this one.

Another must-visit part of the museum is the Tyokan building, known as the Asian Gallery, to the right of the Honkan. Inside, you’ll find art and historical pieces from around Asia, Central Asia, and Egypt including ancient textiles, sculptures, ceramics, and Buddhist statues from the second century onwards.

For special exhibitions, make sure to catch the Heiseikan building, which has four galleries dedicated to temporary exhibitions as well as the Japanese Archaeological Gallery where you can see ancient artifacts including Paleolithic and Neolithic tools and pottery.

Another unmissable part of the museum is The Gallery of Horyuji Treasures with items donated to the Imperial Household from the Horyuji Temple in 1878. This includes 300 valuable objects from the seventh and eighth centuries, including paintings, calligraphy, textiles, lacquerware, and woodwork. There’s also a restaurant on the ground floor of the building.

Descriptions are in both English and Japanese for individual items, with broader descriptions for each room in multiple languages so there’s no missing out if you don’t speak Japanese.

Audioguides can be picked up from the main entry point in a number of languages and they also offer volunteer-based guided tours in English on Honkan Building’s 2nd floor several times a month with more details on their website.

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How to Visit

Tokyo National Museum is open between 9:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily and until 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The museum closes on Monday or the following Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday. Entry is 620 yen with special exhibitions priced separately; they take both cash and international credit cards. Last entry to the museum is 30 minutes before closing. You can also book your tickets online in advance.

Getting There

The easiest way to reach the Tokyo National Museum is on the subway; get off at one of two stations within a 10-minute walk: Ueno and Uguisudani Station. The green Yamanote ring line to Ueno Station is the most common and easiest route. The museum is situated in northern Ueno Park and entry is via the main visitor gate. 

Tips for Visiting

• Make sure to set aside some time to explore Ueno Park, a stunning natural space, which features several other museums, statues, and shrines to explore including the following: National Museum of Science and Nature, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, National Museum of Western Art, Kaneiji Temple, Toshugu Shrine, Shinobazu Pond, and a statue of war hero Saigo Takamori.
• If you are visiting in the spring make sure to catch the museum’s cherry blossom viewing event, a popular spot that is often missed by visitors. Running from early March to late April, you’ll be able to enjoy sakura themed exhibitions and enjoy entry to the museum garden to see the blossoms.
• During the spring and fall, the museum opens a traditional Japanese-style garden and teahouse to admire the foliage. It can also be rented out for tea ceremonies and haiku gatherings.
• There are restaurants and cafes right around the museum so there’s no need to plan lunch ahead of time, though Ueno park is a popular picnic spot with benches if you want to eat outside.
• If you’d like to plan your visit before arriving you can download the English guide in advance and also explore the Tokyo National Museum website .
• Keep an eye out for International Museum Day if you are arriving in May as the entry is fee is waived.

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