Where History Comes Alive Through Art, Samurai, and Ancient Treasures
🌟 What is the Tokyo National Museum?
The Tokyo National Museum (東京国立博物館) is Japan’s oldest and largest museum, located in the northeast corner of Ueno Park. Founded in 1872, it houses the most comprehensive collection of Japanese art and antiquities — including samurai armor, Buddhist statues, ancient pottery, ukiyo-e, and national treasures.
With multiple exhibition buildings, peaceful gardens, and seasonal events, it’s a must-visit for history lovers and cultural explorers.
🔍 Why Visit Tokyo National Museum?
🗡️ Samurai & Swords – Explore katana, armor, and the legacy of Japan’s warrior class
🗾 Japanese Art – From Jomon pottery to Edo period paintings and scrolls
🎎 Cultural Highlights – Buddhist art, noh masks, kimono, and calligraphy
🌏 Asian Gallery – Rotating exhibitions from China, Korea, India, and more
🏛️ Historic Architecture – Main Gallery (Honkan) is an iconic building worth admiring
🌸 Seasonal Beauty – Cherry blossoms in spring, illuminated garden events at night
🗂️ Museum Buildings
| Building | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Honkan (Japanese Gallery) | Permanent exhibits of Japanese art & history – the main attraction |
| Toyokan (Asian Gallery) | Artifacts from across Asia: China, India, Korea, Southeast Asia |
| Heiseikan | Archaeological finds and special exhibitions |
| Horyuji Treasures Gallery | Buddhist relics from the 7th-century Horyuji Temple in Nara |
| Gallery of Horyuji Treasures | Rare religious and cultural items from early Japan |
🎟️ Admission & Hours
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults (18+) | ¥1,000 |
| University Students | ¥500 |
| High School & Under | Free |
| Special Exhibitions | Separate fee applies |
🕒 Open: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (extended during special events)
🗓️ Closed: Mondays (or Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday)
🎫 Tickets available at the gate or online via the official website. Ticket
🚨 Visitor Tips
📱 Download the official app for English audio guides
📸 Photography allowed (no flash, no tripods, restrictions apply in special exhibitions)
🍵 Take a break at the museum café or tea house inside the garden
🧘 Quiet atmosphere – great for slow, mindful exploration
🛍️ Visit the museum shop for unique art-themed gifts and books
🚉 Access
- Ueno Station (JR, Tokyo Metro Ginza/Hibiya) – 10 min walk
- Keisei Ueno Station – 7 min walk
- Located inside Ueno Park, follow signs to the museum entrance
🍱 Nearby Food Options
- Hotel Okura Restaurant Yurinoki
🍱 Upscale Japanese meals within the museum grounds
📍 Heiseikan building area - Ueno Park Cafés
☕ Light meals, sweets, and drinks around the park
📍 5–10 min walk - Ameyoko Street Food
🍢 Casual bites and market food stalls
📍 15 min walk from museum, near Ueno Station
🔁 Sample Plan: “Half Day at Tokyo National Museum”
🕐 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
🏛️ Start at Honkan for Japanese masterpieces
🗡️ Dive into samurai and Buddhist art
🍵 Tea break at museum garden café
🌏 Visit Toyokan for Asian exhibits
🛍️ Stop by museum shop for elegant souvenirs
📍 Address & Contact
Address
13-9 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-8712, Japan
Phone
📞 +81-3-3822-1111
Official Website
https://www.tnm.jp/?lang=en
✨ The Tokyo National Museum is not just a place to see history — it’s where Japan’s soul is preserved and shared with the world.