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Edo-Tokyo Museum: A Journey Through Time

Explore Tokyo's captivating history and cultural heritage at the Edo-Tokyo Museum, showcasing the city's evolution from Edo to modern metropolis.

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The Edo-Tokyo Museum offers a captivating exploration of Tokyo's rich history, from its humble beginnings as the city of Edo to its transformation into the bustling metropolis it is today. Through detailed exhibits and historical artifacts, visitors can immerse themselves in the cultural heritage of Japan's capital.

A brief summary to Edo-Tokyo Museum

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website for information on reopening dates and any special exhibitions that may be planned.
  • Consider visiting the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, an annex of the Edo-Tokyo Museum, to see relocated and restored historical buildings.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Hall to experience Japan's traditional sport.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Edo-Tokyo Museum is located a short walk from Ryogoku Station. Take the JR Sobu Line to Ryogoku Station and exit from the West Exit (3-minute walk). Alternatively, take the Toei Oedo Line to Ryogoku Station (Edo-Tokyo Hakubutsukan-mae) and use Exit A3 or A4 (1-minute walk). A single fare on either line typically costs between ¥180-¥300 depending on the distance traveled.

  • Walking

    From Ryogoku Station, the Edo-Tokyo Museum is easily accessible on foot. From the JR Sobu Line West Exit, walk straight for about 3 minutes. From the Toei Oedo Line, use Exit A3 or A4, and the museum will be immediately visible. The walk is flat and straightforward.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tokyo. A short taxi ride from nearby locations such as Kinshicho or Asakusa to the Edo-Tokyo Museum will typically cost between ¥730-¥1000, depending on traffic and distance. Note that there is an initial fare upon boarding, with additional charges based on distance and time.

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Discover more about Edo-Tokyo Museum

The Edo-Tokyo Museum, located in the Ryogoku district, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Edo (the former name of Tokyo) and Tokyo. Opened in March 1993, the museum's exhibits cover the period from 1590, just before the Edo period began, to 1964. The museum is currently closed for renovations and is expected to reopen in 2026. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including a life-size replica of the Nihonbashi Bridge, which was the bridge leading into Edo. There are also scale models of towns and buildings from the Edo, Meiji, and Showa periods, as well as the Nakamuraza theatre. The museum vividly depicts daily life in the Edo period, showcasing entertainment, clothing, living conditions, and household items of the time. The museum also highlights the impact of major disasters, such as the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake and the bombings of World War II, on the city. The Edo-Tokyo Museum was designed by architect Kiyonori Kikutake and is based on traditional rice storehouses. The building is 62.2 meters tall, the same height as the keep at the 17th-century Edo Castle. The museum also has a sister museum, the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, which preserves multiple historic buildings.

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