Tokyo Art Museums｜Guide to Tokyo’s Most Famous & Must-See Art Spots

If you’re visiting Japan’s capital, this Tokyo Art Museum Guide (Part 1) helps you discover the city’s must-see museums. From Japanese treasures at Ueno to Western masterpieces and cutting-edge contemporary art, these five museums offer an inspiring introduction to Tokyo’s cultural scene.

Tokyo is home to countless art spaces, including world-class museums and galleries.
You might be thinking, “I want to enjoy some art while I’m in Japan—but where should I go?” or “There are so many places, I don’t know how to choose!”

To help, Curating Japan has handpicked the top museums and art spots around Tokyo that are perfect for first-time visitors.

In this first edition, we’ve selected five must-visit museums—all known for their outstanding permanent collections and unique architecture. Whether you’re an art lover or just curious, these spots offer a rich cultural experience, even on a tight travel schedule.

Tokyo National Museum｜Discover Japan’s Culture & Timeless Treasures

Discover Japan’s Culture Through Art, History, and Buddha Statues

Located inside Ueno Park, this is Japan’s oldest and most prestigious museum. It holds an enormous collection of over 120,000 items, including national treasures and important cultural properties. About 3,000 objects are always on display in the “TOHAKU Collection” permanent exhibit, which is updated frequently—so there’s always something new to discover.

The exhibitions are organized chronologically, making it easy to understand the flow of Japanese history and culture.

Don’t just stop at the main exhibits—the museum consists of six unique buildings, each with its own charm. A personal highlight is the Horyuji Treasure Gallery. Its modern exterior hides a serene interior, where statues of Buddha are displayed in breathtaking silence. The museum garden, featuring traditional teahouses, also hosts seasonal events like kimono-wearing or matcha tea experiences.

1. ≈Access: 10-min walk from JR Ueno Station (Park Exit)
2. Admission: Permanent exhibit: Adults ¥1,000 / University students ¥500
3. Free for high school students and under, and seniors over 70

National Museum of Western Art｜Masterpieces in a World Heritage Site

Time to immerse yourself in art in a world heritage site

This is a must-see for anyone curious about Western art in Japan. Based on the Matsukata Collection, it features masterpieces of Western painting from the late medieval period to early 20th century, as well as French modern sculptures, especially those by Rodin.

The main building was designed by Le Corbusier and is the only structure by him in Japan—recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside, you can learn about the architecture and see one of Corbusier’s signature “pilotis.“

Outside, Rodin’s originals like The Thinker and The Gates of Hell are displayed in the sculpture garden. The gift shop and restaurant “Suiren” are open to the public without a ticket—perfect for a relaxing lunch or tea in an elegant setting. Don’t miss the special exhibition menus!

1. Access: 2-min walk from JR Ueno Station (Park Exit)
2. Admission: Permanent exhibit: Adults ¥500 / University students ¥250
3. Free for high school students and under, and seniors over 65

Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo｜Explore Japan’s Cutting-Edge Creativity

Experience Cutting-Edge Art in a Quiet, Inspiring Space

For contemporary art lovers, this museum is a must. Opened in 1995, it inherited around 3,000 pieces from the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, and now holds about 6,000 works. The focus is on postwar Japanese contemporary art, along with global exhibitions.

The “MOT Collection” changes four times a year, showcasing around 100 works with fresh themes each time. In-depth special exhibitions are also held 6-8 times annually, attracting many repeat visitors.

Although it’s about a 10–15 minute walk from Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station, the route itself is part of the charm. The neighborhood retains its old-town charm, with highlights like the traditional Kiyosumi Garden and Japan’s first Blue Bottle Coffee shop.

1. Access: 15-min walk from Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line)
2. Admission: Permanent exhibit: Adults ¥500 / University students ¥400 / High school & seniors (65+) ¥250
3. Free for junior high school students and under

The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo｜Modern Art by the Imperial Palace

Explore the Roots of Japanese Modern Art with a View of the Imperial Palace

Located just steps from Takebashi Station and across from the Imperial Palace, this is Japan’s first national art museum. It houses around 14,000 works focused on Japanese modern art from the late 19th century to today.

The “MOMAT Collection” exhibit features around 200 works on display at all times, with changes five times a year. Exhibits are arranged by genre or period, offering a variety of perspectives.

Special exhibitions include solo shows of domestic and international artists and thematic exhibitions reflecting historical or social issues. Be sure to check the official site before visiting.

1. Access: 3-min walk from Takebashi Station (Tokyo Metro Tozai Line)
2. Admission: Collection exhibit: Adults ¥500 / University students ¥250
3. Free for high school students and under, and seniors over 65

National Museum of Nature and Science｜Interactive Learning & Family Favorites

A treasure trove of exhibits that will tickle the intellectual curiosity of children and adults alike

Located in Ueno Park, this is Japan’s only comprehensive national science museum. A life-size blue whale model outside the building makes it easy to spot.

Inside, the museum is divided into two areas: the Japan Gallery and the Global Gallery. The Japan Gallery focuses on Japan’s natural environment, wildlife, and geography. Don’t miss the taxidermy of Hachiko—the legendary dog from Shibuya—hugely popular among international visitors!

The Global Gallery covers the evolution of life, earth sciences, and cutting-edge technology. There are many hands-on exhibits, making it great for families. The museum also offers multilingual support in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean.

Special exhibitions are held about three times a year, covering a wide range of themes such as dinosaurs, mummies, DNA, and traditional Japanese cuisine. The museum shop offers many unique items, making it a great place to find souvenirs. Since the museum is quite large, it’s best to allow plenty of time for your visit.

1. Access: 5-min walk from JR Ueno Station (Park Exit)
2. Admission: Permanent exhibit: ¥630 for university students and above
3. Free for high school students and under, and seniors over 65

Extra: Look for ©︎Pokemon manholes!
©︎Pokemon-patterned manholes are located in front of the Tokyo National Museum and the National Museum of Nature and Science. Both are Pokemon associated with those facilities. What kind of Pokemon are they?

Final Note｜How This Tokyo Art Museum Guide Elevates Your Trip

Compared to Western museums, Japanese museums are more compact—but they’re packed with rotating exhibitions and seasonal events. You’ll always find something new.

Admission is relatively affordable, and many museums include access to permanent exhibits with a special exhibition ticket. Discounts or free admission for children and seniors are also common.

Exhibition contents, ticket prices, and closed days vary by facility, so be sure to check the official website before visiting.

We hope your journey through Tokyo’s museums leads to an even deeper connection with Japanese art, culture, and everyday life.

Check this Tokyo Art Museums Guide Part 2!

Tokyo Art Museums｜Explore Best Exhibits & Hidden Gems in Tokyo

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