Tokyo National Museum
Location: 13-9 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-8712, Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
Nearby:
About
The Tokyo National Museum, established in 1872, is the oldest and largest museum in Japan, located in Ueno Park, Tokyo. It houses over 110,000 objects, including numerous National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, with a significant collection of samurai swords, armor, and related artifacts. The museum serves as a comprehensive repository of Japanese cultural heritage, showcasing the evolution of Japanese art, craftsmanship, and martial history. Founded in 1872 as the first national museum in Japan, the Tokyo National Museum was initially established under the Ministry of Education to preserve and exhibit Japanese cultural artifacts. Originally named the 'Museum of the Ministry of Education', it was renamed multiple times before becoming the Tokyo National Museum in 1952. The museum's collection grew through acquisitions, donations, and archaeological findings, reflecting Japan's history from prehistoric times to the modern era. Its samurai sword collection, housed in the Honkan (Japanese Gallery), includes iconic pieces like the 'Mikazuki Munechika', a National Treasure from the Heian period.
Gallery
Highlights
- Tachi Sword 'Mikazuki Munechika' - A National Treasure from the Heian period (10th-11th century), known for its crescent-shaped temper line.
- Samurai Armor Sets - A collection from various periods, showcasing the evolution of protective gear used by Japan's warrior class.
- Sword Fittings and Mountings - Exquisite sword fittings demonstrating the artistry involved in accessorizing samurai weapons.
- Katana by Masamune - A katana attributed to the legendary swordsmith Masamune, exemplifying the balance of beauty and lethality.
Operating Hours
| Monday | 9:30 - 17:00 (Last admission at 16:30) |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:30 - 17:00 (Last admission at 16:30) |
| Wednesday | 9:30 - 17:00 (Last admission at 16:30) |
| Thursday | 9:30 - 17:00 (Last admission at 16:30) |
| Friday | 9:30 - 17:00 (Last admission at 16:30) |
| Saturday | 9:30 - 17:00 (Last admission at 16:30) |
| Sunday | 9:30 - 17:00 (Last admission at 16:30) |
Note: Open until 20:00 on Fridays, Saturdays, and specific holidays like May 5, 2025. Special exhibition hours may vary.
Admission
| General | 1000 JPY |
|---|---|
| Students | University: 500 JPY, High School/Elementary: Free |
| Children | Free |
| Seniors | Free (over 70) |
Discounts: Free admission for visitors under 18, over 70, and persons with disabilities plus one caregiver. Free admission days for TNM Collection Exhibitions on May 18, September 15, and November 3, 2025.
Notes: Online tickets available at https://www.asoview.com/channel/ticket/WuX1M0a3sG/ticket0000027926/
Access
Public Transport: 10-minute walk from Ueno or Uguisudani Station (JR Line); 15-minute walk from Ueno Station (Ginza or Hibiya Tokyo Metro Line), Nezu Station (Chiyoda Tokyo Metro Line), or Keisei Ueno Station (Keisei Line). Visitor entrance via the Main Gate.
Driving: No parking at the museum. Nearby options include Ueno Park Parking No. 1 and No. 2 (for buses), Ueno Parking Center, Keisei Ueno Station Parking, and Ueno Chuo-dori Underground Parking.
Parking: No parking at the museum. Nearby options available.
Facilities
Restrooms: Available throughout the museum, including accessible restrooms.
Gift Shop: Museum shops selling books, postcards, and replicas of artifacts including miniature samurai swords and traditional crafts.
Restaurant/Cafe: Multiple on-site cafes and restaurants offering Japanese and Western cuisine, located in the Honkan and Heiseikan buildings.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators; wheelchairs available for rent. Consult General Affairs for specific needs.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English, often covering the Japanese Gallery (Honkan) where samurai swords are displayed.