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Nihon Minka-en: A Journey Through Time

Step back in time at Nihon Minka-en, Kawasaki's open-air museum showcasing traditional Japanese homes and architecture from the Edo period.

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Explore traditional Japanese architecture at Nihon Minka-en, an open-air museum in Kawasaki showcasing relocated and preserved buildings from the Edo Period. Wander through farmhouses, merchant homes, and even a kabuki stage, experiencing the diverse regional styles of old Japan.

A brief summary to Nihon Minka-en (Japan Open-Air Folk Museum)

  • Tuesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Check the schedule for demonstrations of traditional crafts like indigo dyeing or weaving, often held on Sundays.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking between the different buildings.
  • Visit during cherry blossom season or autumn for particularly stunning scenery.
  • Consider a guided tour (reservations required) or utilize the audio guides for deeper insights into the buildings and their history.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The most convenient way to reach Nihon Minka-en is by train. From Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, take the Odakyu Odawara Line to Mukogaoka-Yuen Station. Express trains take about 20 minutes and cost around ¥270. From the station, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to the museum. Alternatively, you can take the JR Nambu Line to Noborito Station, followed by a 25-minute walk. A one way trip from Kawasaki Station to Noborito Station costs around ¥320. From either station, follow the signs to Nihon Minka-en. The route is well-marked. Local buses also run near the museum. Check local schedules for the most up-to-date information. As of March 2025, Kawasaki City bus fares are subject to revisions. Please check the Keikyu Bus website for current pricing.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available at both Mukogaoka-Yuen and Noborito Stations. A taxi ride from either station to Nihon Minka-en will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between ¥1,500 and ¥2,500. Taxis can also be taken directly from Kawasaki or other nearby cities, but train transport is generally more economical. A taxi from Tokyo Station to Nihon Minka-en will cost approximately ¥11,000 - ¥13,000.

  • Walking

    From Mukogaoka-Yuen Station (Odakyu Line), exit and follow the signs for Nihon Minka-en. The walk is approximately 15 minutes and involves a slight uphill climb. From Noborito Station (JR Nambu Line), the walk is longer, approximately 25 minutes, but also well-signposted. Both routes pass through residential areas and offer a glimpse into local life. Be aware that the paths may be narrow in places.

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Discover more about Nihon Minka-en (Japan Open-Air Folk Museum)

Nihon Minka-en, or the Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum, offers a unique glimpse into Japan's architectural past. Located in Kawasaki, this museum brings together over 20 preserved buildings from the Edo Period (1603-1868), relocated from various regions across Japan. These aren't just static displays; they're immersive experiences that allow you to step back in time and explore the diverse lifestyles and building techniques of old Japan. The museum features a variety of structures, including traditional farmhouses with their distinctive thatched roofs, merchant houses reflecting the prosperity of their owners, and even a Kabuki stage that once entertained villagers. Some of the houses feature workshops demonstrating traditional handicrafts such as indigo dyeing, weaving and bamboo craft making. Seven of the structures are designated as nationally important cultural assets. As you wander through the grounds, you'll notice the regional variations in architecture, from the steep-pitched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall to the sturdy construction of homes in fishing villages. The interiors are often furnished with period-appropriate items, offering a glimpse into daily life during the Edo period. Nihon Minka-en isn't just a collection of old buildings; it's a living museum that brings history to life. It's a chance to connect with Japan's past and appreciate the beauty and ingenuity of its traditional architecture.

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