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.
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
- 12-49 Uenokoen, Taito City, Uenokoen, Tokyo, 110-0007, JP
- +813-3827-2053
- Visit website
- 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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gokokuin
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BINGO!
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Tokyo Tourist Information Center Keisei Ueno
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Tokyo National Museum - Kuroda Memorial Hall
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Ueno campus, Tokyo University of the Arts
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Tokyo National Museum Garden
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Tokyo National Museum
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Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum
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Ueno Zoological Gardens
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Ueno Park
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Oto-Oto Ueno bamboo Garden
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Tokori Ueno Bamboo Garden
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Atre Ueno
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Ueno LOFT
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Japanese souvenir store ~YOSHIKIRI~
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HUB Ueno
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