Highlights and access methods of Tokyo National Museum (Tokyo Prefecture)
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The Tokyo National Museum is the largest museum in Japan, located in Ueno Park. It has numerous exhibits on Japanese art and history, and you can see valuable cultural heritage from not only Japan but also all of Asia. The exhibits include paintings, sculptures, archaeological artifacts, and decorative arts, and the number of items exceeds 110,000. There is also a Japanese garden on the premises, where you can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons.
In this article, we will explain the attractions of Tokyo National Museum in Tokyo Prefecture and how to access it for those who are traveling to Japan from overseas.
(Last modified: )
(Prefecture : Tokyo , Category : Museums and Science Museums)
Table of contents
Highlights of Tokyo National Museum
The Tokyo National Museum, situated within the bounds of Ueno Park in Tokyo, is a premier destination for history and art enthusiasts around the globe. As Japan's oldest and largest museum, it boasts a treasure trove of over 110,000 individual items including nearly a hundred national treasures.
The museum complex comprises several buildings each focusing on a different type of artwork or artifact. The Honkan, or Japanese Gallery, displays art pieces and artifacts from Japan across different periods, ranging from ancient pottery and sculptures to intricate samurai armor and swords. The Heiseikan, devoted to Japanese archaeology, features various prehistoric artifacts and historical documents.
The Toyokan, or Asian Gallery, presents art and archaeology from across Asia, displaying pieces from China, Korea, Southeast Asia, Central Asia, India, and Egypt. Additionally, the Gallery of Horyuji Treasures holds a collection donated by the Horyuji Temple, which includes some of the oldest Buddhist artifacts in Japan.
The museum is a haven for those who appreciate Japanese aesthetics, housing a wide array of ukiyo-e prints, delicate ceramics, kimonos, and other textiles. Besides indoor exhibitions, it also hosts a Japanese-style garden, where historical teahouses can be found.
While the museum is worth a visit at any time of the year, spring is particularly remarkable when Ueno Park, in which the museum is located, becomes one of Tokyo's best spots for cherry blossom viewing.
Address and access method of Tokyo National Museum
The address of the Tokyo National Museum is "13-9 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo". The nearest station is JR Yamanote Line Ueno Station. It's about a 10 minute walk from the station. Or Ueno Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line. It's about a 15 minute walk from the station.
Attractions near Tokyo National Museum
Several notable attractions are located near Tokyo National Museum:
Ueno Zoo
Located in Ueno Park, Ueno Zoo is Japan's oldest zoo and houses more than 3,000 animals, including pandas, tigers, and elephants. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful natural scenery and several historical buildings within the zoo grounds.
Ueno Toshogu Shrine
Also situated in Ueno Park, this golden shrine is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo Shogunate. The lush garden surrounding the shrine is particularly beautiful in peony season.
Ameyoko Shopping Street
A bustling open-air market selling a wide variety of products, from fresh food and clothes to cosmetics and electronics. It's an excellent place for souvenir shopping.
National Museum of Nature and Science
This museum offers interactive exhibits about the natural history of Japan and the world, as well as the history of scientific technology. It's both educational and entertaining, making it a good spot for families.
Other information about Tokyo National Museum
Official site about Tokyo National Museum :
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Thank you for reading to the end.
( Written by Tatsuo Ikura )
