Nippon Budokan, Buzen Travel Guide

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Home to Japanese martial arts and legendary concerts, the Nippon Budokan is a must-see Tokyo landmark steeped in history and culture.

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Nippon Budokan

The Nippon Budokan, located in Tokyo's Kitanomaru Park, is an iconic arena initially built for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics to host judo competitions. Today, it remains a central location for martial arts and a celebrated concert venue, hosting many famous artists.

A brief summary to Nippon Budokan

2-3 Kitanomarukoen, Chiyoda City, Kitanomarukoen, Tokyo, 102-8321, JP
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Monday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
Friday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-5:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Nippon Budokan.

Check the event schedule in advance, as the Budokan hosts various martial arts tournaments and concerts throughout the year.
If you're interested in martial arts, try to attend a free admission tournament, often held on Saturdays and Sundays.
The Budokan is located within Kitanomaru Park, offering a peaceful escape and other attractions like the Science Museum and the National Museum of Modern Art.
Note that there is no parking space available at Nippon Budokan, so it's best to use public transport.

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Explore Nippon Budokan on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Nippon Budokan, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

The Nippon Budokan is a short walk from Kudanshita Station, which is served by the Toei Shinjuku Line, Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, and Tokyo Metro Tozai Line. From Kudanshita Station, take Exit 2 and walk for approximately 5 minutes to reach the Budokan. Subway fares in Tokyo typically range from ¥170-¥210 depending on the distance traveled.
Walking

From the Imperial Palace East Garden, head northwest. Walk along Uchibori-dori avenue, then turn left into Kitanomaru Park. Continue through the park; the Nippon Budokan will be on your right. The walk is approximately 30 minutes. There are no entrance fees for Kitanomaru Park.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Tokyo. From Tokyo Station, a taxi ride to the Nippon Budokan typically takes around 3 minutes and costs approximately ¥2,000-¥2,500. Note that traffic conditions can affect travel time and cost.

Discover more about Nippon Budokan

The Nippon Budokan, or Japan Martial Arts Hall, is more than just an arena; it's a symbol of Japanese tradition and a stage for international culture. Constructed for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, the Budokan was specifically designed to promote martial arts, hosting events like judo, kendo, and karate. Its architecture is inspired by the octagonal Yumedono Hall of Horyuji Temple in Nara.Since its opening, the Budokan has become a versatile venue. While it remains a vital center for martial arts, hosting national competitions and demonstrations, it also gained fame as a concert hall. The Beatles were the first rock group to perform at the Budokan in 1966, paving the way for many famous western and Japanese acts. Performing at the Budokan is considered a mark of success for Japanese groups. The arena has a seating capacity of over 14,000.The Budokan continues to be an important site for martial arts, hosting judo and karate events at the 2020 Summer Olympics and the judo event at the 2020 Summer Paralympics.