Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Japanese museums offer a deep dive into the country’s rich history, art, and culture. From traditional heritage to cutting-edge technology, Japanese museums present a variety of experiences that captivate visitors. Whether you are interested in samurai artefacts, ancient temples, or contemporary art, there are numerous must-visit museums across the country. If you are planning a cultural trip to the land of the sun, these museums in Japan should be on your list to explore the fascinating aspects of the nation’s past and present.
Top 10 Japanese Museums That You Cannot Miss!
Japan boasts a wide array of museums that cater to different interests, ranging from historical landmarks to modern exhibits. Here are 10 top museums in Japan that every traveller must see.
1. Tokyo National Museum
Photo: TPFUUT / Wikimedia Commons
Tokyo National Museum is a treasure trove of Japan’s rich history, housing over 110,000 artefacts, including samurai armour, ancient scrolls, and delicate ceramics. As one of the oldest Japanese museums, it showcases national treasures like the 12th-century ‘Night Attack on the Sanjō Palace’ scroll. Interactive exhibits and seasonal displays bring Japan’s cultural heritage to life, making it a must-visit for history and art lovers.
Entry Fees: ¥1,000 / ₹55
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
Location: Ueno Park, Tokyo
2. Kyoto National Museum
Photo: Yoshio Kohara / Wikimedia Commons
The Kyoto National Museum is a treasure trove of Japanese art and history, showcasing an extraordinary collection of paintings, ceramics, sculptures, and textiles spanning centuries. One of the most revered Japanese museums, it houses rare artefacts from the Heian to Edo periods, offering a deep dive into the nation’s cultural evolution. The museum’s seasonal exhibitions and stunning Meiji-era architecture make it a must-visit for art lovers.
Entry Fees: ¥700 / ₹400
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
Location: Higashiyama, Kyoto
3. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Photo: John feather / Wikimedia Commons
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum stands as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of nuclear warfare, preserving artefacts, survivor testimonies, and haunting photographs that narrate the horrors of the 1945 atomic bombing. Interactive exhibits immerse visitors in the personal stories of those affected, fostering a deeper understanding of peace and resilience. As one of the most significant museums in Japan, it powerfully advocates for a nuclear-free world.
Entry Fees: ¥200 / ₹110
Timings: 7:30 AM – 7 PM
Location: Hiroshima Peace Park, Hiroshima
4. The National Museum Of Western Art
Photo: Kakidai / Wikimedia Commons
The National Museum of Western Art houses an extraordinary collection of European masterpieces, spanning from the Renaissance to the 20th century. Designed by the renowned architect Le Corbusier, its UNESCO-listed building itself is an architectural marvel. The museum’s highlights include works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Rodin, offering visitors a deep dive into Western artistic evolution. Interactive exhibits and rotating special displays keep art lovers engaged and inspired year-round.
Entry Fees: ¥420 / ₹240
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Location: Ueno Park, Tokyo
5. Edo-Tokyo Museum
Photo: Kakidai / Wikimedia Commons
The Edo-Tokyo Museum offers an immersive journey through Tokyo’s transformation from the Edo period to modern times, featuring life-sized replicas, interactive exhibits, and historical artefacts. Visitors can walk across a full-scale Nihonbashi Bridge, explore recreated samurai residences, and witness the city’s evolution through dioramas and digital displays. With hands-on experiences like trying on Edo-era clothing, the museum brings history to life in an engaging and dynamic way.
Entry Fees: Varies by exhibitions
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Location: Sumida, Tokyo
6. Nara National Museum
Photo: 663highland / Wikimedia Commons
The Nara National Museum is the second oldest Japanese museum showcasing Japanese Buddhist art, housing an exceptional collection of sculptures, paintings, and ritual artefacts, many designated as national treasures. Its renowned annual Shōsōin Exhibition showcases rare imperial artefacts from the 8th century, offering a glimpse into Japan’s ancient cultural heritage. The museum’s serene atmosphere and beautifully preserved relics make it a captivating journey through centuries of spiritual and artistic evolution.
Entry Fees: ¥520 / ₹300
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
Location: Nara Park, Nara
7. Ghibli Museum
Photo: Tomi Mäkitalo / Wikimedia Commons
The Ghibli Museum is a magical gateway into the world of Studio Ghibli, offering an immersive experience that blends art, storytelling, and animation. Unlike traditional Japanese museums, this whimsical space features life-sized recreations of iconic scenes, interactive exhibits on animation techniques, and exclusive short films in its own theatre. From Totoro-shaped windows to a towering Robot Soldier from Castle in the Sky, every corner is filled with wonder and nostalgia.
Entry Fees: ¥1,000 / ₹576 for adults; ¥700 / ₹403 for children
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Location: Mitaka, Tokyo
8. Osaka Museum Of History
Photo: Hyppolyte de Saint-Rambert / Wikimedia Commons
The Osaka Museum of History offers a captivating journey through Japan’s past, showcasing Osaka’s transformation from ancient times to the modern era. With immersive exhibits, life-sized reconstructions, and digital displays, visitors can experience Edo-period streets, the grandeur of Naniwa Palace and the city’s merchant culture. It provides panoramic views of Osaka Castle, blending history with breathtaking scenery for an engaging, multi-sensory experience.
Entry Fees: ¥600 / ₹330
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
Location: Chuo Ward, Osaka
9. Otaru City Museum
Photo: 663highland / Wikimedia Commons
Otaru City Museum offers a fascinating dive into Hokkaido’s rich maritime and railway history, featuring life-sized steam locomotives, detailed ship models, and immersive exhibits. The museum’s highlight is the fully operational historic railway, where visitors can ride vintage trains. Interactive displays, dioramas, and preserved artefacts bring Otaru’s history and culture to life, making it a must-visit for history buffs and technology enthusiasts alike.
Entry Fees: ¥500 / ₹285
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
Location: Otaru, Hokkaido
10. Mori Art Museum
Photo: Matt Lucht / Wikimedia Commons
The Mori Art Museum is a dynamic cultural hub known for its cutting-edge contemporary art exhibitions that challenge perceptions and spark dialogue. With a strong focus on global issues, the museum showcases works from both emerging and established artists, blending technology, multimedia, and traditional art forms. Its ever-evolving exhibitions push creative boundaries, making every visit a fresh, thought-provoking experience for art lovers and curious minds alike.
Entry Fees: ¥2000 / ₹1145 for adults; ¥1400 / ₹800 for children
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
Location: Roppongi Hills, Tokyo
Japanese museums provide an incredible opportunity to explore the country’s artistic, historical, and technological advancements. From the ancient artefacts of Kyoto National Museum to the futuristic animations of the Ghibli Museum, each destination offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you are fascinated by Japan’s history or passionate about contemporary art, there are museums in Japan for every kind of traveller. Book your trip with TripXL today and start your journey through the most remarkable museums in Japan!
Cover Photo: Kakidai / Wikimedia Commons
