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Arima Toys and Automata Museum: A Whimsical Journey Through Toy History

Discover a world of play at Arima Toys & Automata Museum: Explore vintage toys, intricate automata, and hands-on exhibits in Arima Onsen.

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The Arima Toys and Automata Museum, located in the heart of Arima Onsen, showcases a delightful collection of toys and automata from around the world. With six floors of exhibits, visitors can explore traditional German toys, intricate automata, and interactive wooden games, offering a nostalgic experience for adults and a playful adventure for children.

A brief summary to Arima Toys and Automata Museum

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the museum's six floors and interactive exhibits.
  • Check the schedule for hourly shows and demonstrations to learn more about the toys and automata, though they are usually in Japanese.
  • Take advantage of the interactive play area on the 5th floor, where you can play with wooden toys and games.
  • Visit the museum shop, Arimari, for a selection of unique toys and wooden crafts to take home as souvenirs.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Arima Onsen Station, exit and turn right. Continue straight past the traffic light, then bear right at the fork in the road. Take the next left, and the museum will be on your left, across from the Kin-no-Yu bathhouse. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.

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Discover more about Arima Toys and Automata Museum

Step into a world of wonder at the Arima Toys and Automata Museum, a charming retreat in the historic Arima Onsen. This museum houses an impressive collection of approximately 4,000 toys, showcasing the ingenuity and craftsmanship of toy makers from across the globe. The museum spans six floors, each offering a unique theme and experience. The upper floors feature traditional German toys, including a delightful array of nutcrackers and handcrafted wooden pieces. Descending further, visitors encounter a diverse selection of contemporary wooden toys, primarily from Europe, and intricate automata – mechanical toys brought to life through gears and cranks. Interactive exhibits invite visitors to engage with the toys, offering a hands-on experience that appeals to all ages. The fifth floor includes a play area where children can enjoy wooden toys and games, fostering creativity and imagination. The museum also hosts hourly shows and demonstrations, providing insights into the history and mechanics of these fascinating playthings, though these are typically conducted in Japanese. Founded by Yuzo Kato, Akio Nishida, and Keishu Kanai, the museum aims to celebrate craftsmanship and provide a space for connection through the universal language of play. With its nostalgic ambiance and diverse collection, the Arima Toys and Automata Museum offers a memorable experience for toy enthusiasts and families alike. Once you pay admission, you can enter and leave the museum as often as you want on the same day, enjoying your favorite diversions to your heart's content.

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