The Tokyo National Museum Guide A wealth of history and beauty in Japan

For many people, visiting a museum is a common way to learn more about certain regions. Tokyo is home to many museums, but the Tokyo National Museum is one of the pre-eminent institutions of the country. Whether newcomers to the nation, or longtime fans of Japan, everyone is sure to find something to enjoy here. For first-time visitors, the sheer size and number of exhibits may be overwhelming. For those in a rush, the scale is so great that half a day is never enough, and for others who wish to truly appreciate the exhibits, even a full day here seems insufficient. To make the most of limited time in Tokyo, here is a guide to the treasures displayed in each of the six exhibition halls of the Tokyo National Museum.

What kind of place is the Tokyo National Museum?

The Tokyo National Museum in Ueno Park is the longest standing museum in Japan, open since 1872, known affectionately as "Tohaku." Including art and archeological findings from Japan and East Asia, a wide variety of cultural artifacts have been gathered over the past 150 years for a current collection of about 120,000 items. Of these, 3,000 items, including 89 national treasures and 649 important cultural properties, are on display as part of the “Regular Exhibitions.” Exhibits are changed around 300 times a year, so even frequent repeat visitors will always discover something new.

Labels and explanations in the “Tohaku” exhibition halls are displayed in four languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean, while the General Information pamphlet, featuring a map of the premises, is also published in French, German and Spanish. In addition, the voice guidance of the "Tohaku Navi" guide app introduces major works in four languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean. Listening to the guide app allows visitors from around the world to easily get the most out of the exhibitions.

Honkan: Masterpieces of Japanese Art

The façade of this exhibition hall seen from the front gate is known as the symbol of Tohaku. Often the first stop for many visitors, the 2nd floor exhibition room expresses the theme "the Flow of Japanese Art," and traces trends in Japanese art from the Jomon period over 10,000 years ago to the Edo period (1603-1868).

On the 1st floor of the Honkan, displays are divided by genre and theme, such as sculpture, ceramics, and swords. Those interested in Japanese traditional artisan crafts should take their time to thoroughly explore the works here. The Tohaku sword collection is particularly impressive with a chance to see a stunning array of famous blades including 19 national treasures in Japan’s largest collection. Great care has been taken in lighting and other display details to showcase the beauty of the ferrite and tempering patterns on the metal.


In addition, the current main building, opened in 1938, has itself been designated as an Important Cultural Property. Enjoy the atmosphere of the majestic exterior and entrance hall.

Heiseikan: Stories of the Ages told through Ancient Artifacts

The Heiseikan holds special exhibitions that change depending on the time of year. In the 1st floor permanent archaeological exhibition room, Japanese history can be experienced through excavated antiquities that differ from artworks. Feel the fascinating differences between each era and region of Japan, from B.C. to the 19th century.

Toyokan: A Tour of Asia through the Beauty of Art

Toyokan exhibits include arts, crafts, and archaeological relics from Asian countries. Works of art here are from a wide ranging part of the world including Egypt, West Asia, China, Korea, India, and Southeast Asia, offering endless delight to those whose interests extend beyond Japan to the cultures of all Asia.

Gallery of Horyuji Treasures: A Wealth of Buddhist Art & Altar Fittings

Gilt bronze Buddhist statues, Buddhist altar fittings, and sutras presented to the imperial family by Horyuji Temple in Nara Prefecture in the Asuka and Nara periods (7th to 8th centuries), are on display. The heartfelt prayers of generations handed down through centuries can be felt in this place of deep serenity. Exhibits here are of great fascination for anyone interested in Buddhism.

Kuroda Memorial Hall: Masters of the Modern Art World

The Kuroda Memorial Hall has a different sense of elegance than the exhibition halls introduced so far. On display are the works of Seiki Kuroda (1866-1924), a Western-style painter who greatly influenced the development of modern art in Japan. Recommended for those who appreciate modern fine art.

Hyokeikan: Impressive Early 20th Century Western-style Architecture

Although the Hyokeikan is only open for special exhibitions and events, the gallery exterior alone is worth a visit. Opened in 1909, it is currently the oldest exhibition hall in Tohaku. Two statues of Buddha stand at the entrance of the Japanese temples and shrines, and two lions in the style of “A-un” figures are enshrined at the entrance.

TOHAKU CHAKAN: A Place to Experience Japanese Culture on Special Days

Beyond the six buildings introduced so far, other valuable structures have been relocated from all over Japan to the Tohaku grounds. One of these is the Okyokan. First built in Aichi Prefecture in 1742, then donated to the Tokyo National Museum in 1933, it now serves as a facility to experience Japanese culture (until January 28, 2024).

Within the refined elegance of this space surrounded by greenery, we forget being in the city center. Here, activities are held centered on a combination of the “3 E's”: Environment, Experience, and Education. One of these is the "ZEN breathing method." Generally held every Tuesday and Friday, participants are taught posture and ways of breathing to eliminate mental and physical stress based on ancient techniques from Zen Buddhism. Reservations can be made in advance, but even with no such arrangements people are welcome to join if space is available.

Other experiences include a stroll through the Japanese garden dressed in kimono, culinary experiences to taste Japanese sake or whiskey, and dishes made with Japanese ingredients. After enjoying the riches of cultural artifacts, an experience at Okyokan is a chance to further deepen our understanding of Japan and create unforgettable memories.

For more information on the Tokyo National Museum:
https://www.tnm.jp/

For more information about TOHAKU teahouse and reservations:
https://chakan-tokyo.com/
* Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau, c/o Tourism Garden Pty Ltd

* Alison Roberts-Brown at alison@tourismgarden.com.au