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Tokyo National Museum: A Gateway to Japanese Art and History

Discover Japanese and Asian art and history at Japan's oldest and largest museum, featuring national treasures and cultural properties in Ueno Park.

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The Tokyo National Museum, established in 1872, is Japan's oldest and largest museum, housing an extensive collection of Japanese and Asian art and artifacts. Located in Ueno Park, the museum complex comprises multiple buildings, each showcasing different aspects of art and history, including a Japanese garden and teahouses.

A brief summary to Tokyo National Museum

  • Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring to enjoy cherry blossom views in the museum's Japanese garden.
  • Check the museum's website for special exhibitions and events before your visit.
  • Download the TNM Art Guide app for an interactive museum experience.
  • Take advantage of the free English guided tours for a deeper understanding of the exhibits.
  • Plan to spend at least half a day to fully explore the museum's extensive collection.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Tokyo Station, take the JR Yamanote Line or the JR Ueno-Tokyo Line to Ueno Station. The journey takes approximately 5-10 minutes and costs around ¥170. From Ueno Station's Park Exit, the museum is a 10-minute walk. Alternatively, the Ginza subway line will also take you to Ueno Station. Subway fare is between ¥180-¥210.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from most locations in Tokyo. A taxi from Tokyo Station to Ueno Park typically takes around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between ¥2,400 and ¥3,300. Note that traffic conditions can significantly affect travel time and cost.

  • Walking

    From Ueno Station, exit through the Park Exit and follow the signs to Ueno Park. The Tokyo National Museum is located within Ueno Park, approximately a 10-minute walk from the station. The path is well-marked and easy to navigate.

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Discover more about Tokyo National Museum

The Tokyo National Museum (TNM) stands as a premier gateway to Japanese and Asian art and history. Founded in 1872, it is the oldest and largest museum in Japan, boasting a collection of over 120,000 objects, including 89 National Treasures and 650 Important Cultural Properties. The museum's mission is to collect, preserve, and display these items, promoting understanding of the arts through exhibitions, research, and educational events. The museum complex is located in Ueno Park and consists of six main buildings: the Honkan (Japanese Gallery), Heiseikan, Hyokeikan, Toyokan (Asian Gallery), Gallery of Horyuji Treasures, and Kuroda Memorial Hall. Each building has its own distinct focus, from ancient Japanese art to artifacts from other Asian countries. The Honkan showcases Japanese art from prehistory to the late 19th century, while the Toyokan displays art and artifacts from China, Korea, Southeast Asia, and other Asian regions. The Gallery of Horyuji Treasures houses a collection of religious objects from Horyuji Temple in Nara. Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits, including Buddhist statues, painted sliding doors, ceramics, samurai armor, and ukiyo-e prints. The museum also features a Japanese-style garden with teahouses, offering a tranquil space to appreciate seasonal views. Special exhibitions are held regularly, providing deeper insights into specific themes or artists. The museum offers English information and audio guides to enhance the experience for international visitors. Whether you're interested in ancient artifacts, samurai culture, or the beauty of Japanese art, the Tokyo National Museum offers a rich and immersive experience. Allow at least a few hours to explore the extensive collection and discover the treasures of Japan's cultural heritage.

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