Gotoh Museum: A Sanctuary of East Asian Art in Tokyo

The Gotoh Museum, founded in 1960 by Keita Gotoh, the chairman of the Tokyu Corporation, houses a remarkable collection of Japanese and East Asian art. Located in the Kaminoge district of Setagaya, Tokyo, the museum offers a tranquil retreat into the world of traditional art. The museum's collection comprises approximately 5,000 pieces, including paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, tea ceremony implements, and archaeological objects. Among its treasures are five National Treasures and fifty Important Cultural Properties. A highlight is the illustrated handscroll of 'The Tale of Genji,' considered by many to be the world's first novel, which is displayed during a special exhibition in the spring. Another celebrated item is the 'Murasaki Shikibu Diary Picture Scroll,' showcased in the autumn. The museum building, designed in the Shinden-zukuri style of aristocratic architecture, is itself a highlight, winning the Good Design Award in 2013. The expansive grounds feature a traditional Japanese garden with seasonal flowers, ponds, and Buddhist statues, inviting visitors to stroll and appreciate the beauty of nature. Please note that photography is prohibited inside the building, but is allowed in the garden.