Overview of Tokyo National Museum
The Tokyo National Museum (東京 国立 博物館, Tōkyō Kokuritsu Hakubutsukan) is Japan’s oldest and largest national museum. Founded in 1872, it moved to its current location in Ueno Park a few years later. The museum showcases over 110,000 artifacts, including nearly 100 national treasures, with around 4,000 items on display at any given time. Temporary exhibitions are regularly organized, and English guides and audio tours are available.
Honkan: Japanese Art and Culture
The main building, Honkan, opened in 1938. It displays Japanese art from ancient times to the 19th century, including Buddhist statues, scrolls, ceramics, and cultural objects like masks, costumes, and weapons.
Hyokeikan: Western-Style Architecture
Built in 1909 to celebrate Emperor Taisho’s wedding, Hyokeikan represents Meiji-era Western-style architecture. It is used for temporary exhibitions and is designated as an important cultural property.
Toyokan: Asian Art
The Toyokan, designed in 1968 by architect Taniguchi Yoshiro, houses Asian art from China, Korea, India, and other regions. It showcases the diversity of art across Asia.
Heiseikan: Ancient Japanese Culture
Built in 1993 to commemorate the Crown Prince’s wedding, Heiseikan focuses on ancient Japanese cultures and hosts large-scale special exhibitions.
Horyuji Homotsukan: Religious Treasures
The Horyuji Gallery houses religious objects donated by the Horyuji Temple in Nara. Designed by Taniguchi Yoshio, the building reflects a minimalist style seen in his other works.
Kuroda Memorial Hall
Outside the museum grounds, the Kuroda Memorial Hall displays works by Kuroda Seiki, the father of modern Japanese Western-style painting. It includes his paintings, sketches, and family donations.
Additional Features
The museum offers a Japanese-style garden and tea houses, open in spring and fall. Visitors can also explore its cafes and stores for a complete experience.