Tokyo National Museum
The basics
Set in the landscaped grounds of Ueno Park, the Tokyo National Museum offers a complete look at arts, crafts, and objects from Japan. From ancient pottery dating back 5,000 years to a fascinating selection of samurai swords and armor, the museum offers a detailed insight into Japanese life through objects. The museum makes a good complement to other Tokyo cultural activities like foodie tours and Geisha performances.
The main gallery—known as the Honkan—houses the majority of the most interesting items, although the additional Horyuji Treasures gallery devoted to Buddhist artifacts is also well worth a visit. For a more detailed understanding of the items on display, you can book a private guided tour of the museum.
Things to know before you go
- Entry to the museum is via paid ticket. Entry is free for people under 18 or over 70.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible.
- There is a café, two restaurants, and a souvenir shop.
- With plenty to see here, the museum is a good rainy day activity.
How to get there
Tokyo National Museum is located in Ueno Park. The easiest way to get here is by public transport—Ueno station is served by the metro and JR train line and is just five minutes’ walk from the main entrance. There is limited car parking available at the station.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The museum is busiest on weekends—so visit during the week for a quieter experience. It’s usually closed on Mondays as well as major national holidays. Last entry is 30 minutes before closing time.
Explore Ueno Park
Ueno Park is Tokyo’s ‘museum quarter’, home to the National Museum, Museum of Nature and Science, Museum of Western Art, Ueno Zoo, and more. While all of these institutions have interesting collections, the park itself is also worth exploring, offering a pretty lake and paths lined with cherry trees. It’s one of the most popular parks in Japan to visit during hanami, the cherry blossom festival in spring.
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- Toshogu Shrine (Nikko Toshogu)
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- Ameyoko Shopping Street (Ameya-Yokocho)
- Ueno Park (Ueno Koen)
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- Sumida River (Sumida Gawa)
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