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International Library of Children's Literature: A Literary Haven

Explore a world of stories at Japan's only national library dedicated to children's literature, housed in a historic building in Ueno Park.

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Housed in a beautifully renovated historic building in Ueno Park, the International Library of Children's Literature (ILCL) is Japan's only national library dedicated to children's books. With a collection of over 400,000 items from around the world, it offers a unique space for children, researchers, and anyone interested in children's literature.

A brief summary to International Library of Children's Literature, National Diet Library

  • Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the library's website for information on current exhibitions and events.
  • Take a break at the library's café, which offers affordable and delicious food.
  • Visit during cherry blossom season to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Ueno Park.
  • Explore the Ueno Park area, which is home to several other museums and cultural attractions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From JR Ueno Station's Park Exit, the International Library of Children's Literature is about a 10-minute walk. Exit the station and head straight into Ueno Park. Follow the main path through the park, passing by the fountain and towards the cluster of museums. The library is located on the northwest side of the park. No costs are associated with this route.

  • Public Transport

    Take the JR Yamanote Line to Ueno Station. From Tokyo Station, the fare is approximately 160 JPY. Alternatively, take the Tokyo Metro Ginza or Hibiya Line to Ueno Station; the fare from Shibuya is around 200 JPY. From Ueno Station's Park Exit, follow the walking directions.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Tokyo Station to Ueno Park will cost approximately 2,620 JPY and take about 5 minutes. From Ueno Station, instruct the driver to take you to the International Library of Children's Literature within Ueno Park. A taxi from within Ueno Park to the library should be a minimal additional fare.

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Discover more about International Library of Children's Literature, National Diet Library

The International Library of Children's Literature (ILCL) is a unique institution located in Tokyo's Ueno Park. It stands as Japan's premier national library dedicated to children's literature, offering a rich collection and various services for children, researchers, and the general public. The library is housed within a historic brick building that was once the Imperial Library, constructed in 1906. This Renaissance-style structure was designed by Masamichi Kuru, Hideo Mamizu and Tokitaro Okada. In 2000, the building was renovated and reborn as the International Library of Children's Literature. A modern arch-shaped building, designed by Tadao Ando and Nikken Sekkei, was added in 2015, creating a striking contrast between the old and new. The original brick building is designated as a historic building by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. The ILCL serves multiple functions : * It acts as an academic research center for children's literature and reading. * It functions as a children's library where kids can discover and enjoy books. * It operates as a museum, hosting exhibitions and events for the public. The library's collection includes Japanese and international children's books, with a focus on collecting, preserving, and providing access to these resources. The ILCL also collects school textbooks and materials from around 160 countries and regions. The library enriches its collection with special materials such as the Nobumasa Ikeda Collection, the Winnington-Ingram Collection, and the Children's Book Collection of the Gordon W. Prange Collection. Visitors can explore various spaces within the ILCL, including a Children's Library with books for elementary school-aged children, a Meet the World room with books about different countries, and a Gallery of Children's Literature showcasing the history of Japanese children's books. The library also offers a café with an open terrace.

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