Kyoto National Museum
Location: 527 Chaya-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Japan 605-0931, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan
Nearby:
About
The Kyoto National Museum, established in 1897, is one of Japan's premier national museums, located in Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto. It houses over 12,000 objects, including numerous National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, with a significant focus on samurai swords as evidenced by exhibitions like 'Swords of Kyoto: Master Craftsmanship from an Elegant Culture' in 2018. The museum serves as a vital repository of Japanese cultural heritage, showcasing the evolution of Japanese art, craftsmanship, and martial history. Founded in 1897 as the Imperial Museum of Kyoto, the Kyoto National Museum was established to preserve and exhibit the cultural artifacts of Japan's former capital. Initially under the Imperial Household Ministry, it became a national museum in 1950. The museum's collection has grown through acquisitions, donations, and loans, reflecting Kyoto's central role in Japanese history from the Heian period to the modern era.
Gallery
Highlights
- Long Sword (Tachi) 'Mikazuki Munechika' - A National Treasure from the Heian period (10th-11th century), known for its crescent-shaped temper line.
- Long Sword (Tachi) by Rai Kunimitsu - A National Treasure from the Kamakura period, exemplifying the Rai school's high-quality workmanship.
- Dagger (Tantō) 'Akita Tōshirō' by Yoshimitsu - An Important Cultural Property, showcasing the refined craftsmanship of the Awataguchi school.
- Long Sword (Katana) 'Heshikiri Hasebe' - A National Treasure from the Nanbokuchō period, representing the resilience of Kyoto's swordmaking tradition.
Operating Hours
| Monday | 9:30 - 18:00 (Last admission at 17:30) |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:30 - 18:00 (Last admission at 17:30) |
| Wednesday | 9:30 - 18:00 (Last admission at 17:30) |
| Thursday | 9:30 - 18:00 (Last admission at 17:30) |
| Friday | 9:30 - 18:00 (Last admission at 17:30) |
| Saturday | 9:30 - 18:00 (Last admission at 17:30) |
| Sunday | 9:30 - 18:00 (Last admission at 17:30) |
Note: Open until 20:00 on Fridays and Saturdays during special exhibitions. Closed on Mondays, except when Monday is a national holiday (then closed the following day).
Admission
| General | 1500 JPY (1300 JPY for groups of 20 or more) |
|---|---|
| Students | University: 1200 JPY (1000 JPY for groups), High School: 700 JPY (500 JPY for groups), Elementary/Middle School: Free |
| Children | Free (Elementary/Middle School) |
| Seniors | Information not available |
Discounts: Free admission for visitors under middle school age and persons with disabilities plus one caregiver. Special rates may apply during certain exhibitions.
Notes: Online tickets available through the museum's official website or affiliated ticketing platforms.
Access
Public Transport: Accessible via JR, Kintetsu Railway, Keihan Railway, Hankyu Railway, and Kyoto City Bus. Approximately 10-minute walk from Shichijo Station (Keihan Line) or a short bus ride from Kyoto Station to 'Hakubutsukan Sanjusangendo-mae' stop.
Driving: Limited parking available on-site; additional parking nearby for cars and buses in Higashiyama area.
Parking: Limited parking available on-site; additional parking nearby.
Facilities
Restrooms: Available throughout the museum, including accessible restrooms.
Gift Shop: Museum shop selling exclusive items, books on Japanese history, and replicas of artifacts including miniature samurai swords.
Restaurant/Cafe: On-site cafe offering Japanese-style refreshments and light meals, located near the Heisei Chishinkan Wing.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators; wheelchairs available for rent.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English, often covering significant exhibitions like 'Swords of Kyoto'.