Top 100 best museums in Japan

The Ghibli Museum is a commercial museum located in Mitaka, a suburb of Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the works of Studio Ghibli, a renowned animation studio known for its iconic films. The museum is situated on the grounds of Inokashira Park, providing a serene and natural setting for visitors.

TeamLab Borderless is a unique immersive and digital art museum that was launched in 2018 in Tokyo. The museum was designed and created by TeamLab, an international creative group consisting of various specialists including artists, programmers, engineers, animators, mathematicians, and architects. The aim of the museum is to explore the relationship between the self, the world, and new perceptions through art, as well as the continuity of time.

The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is a large public aquarium located in Osaka, Japan. It is not just one aquarium but a series of aquariums built around one massive water tank. This unique design allows visitors to experience a variety of marine life in different environments, all within the same facility.

Iwatayama Monkey Park is a commercial park situated in Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan. The park is located on Mount Arashiyama, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to interact with nature and wildlife in a serene setting. The park's location offers a panoramic view of the city, making it a popular destination for tourists.

The Ueno Zoo, located in Taitō, Tokyo, Japan, is a 14.3-hectare zoo managed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. As Japan's oldest zoo, it has a rich history dating back to its opening on March 20, 1882.

Matsumoto Castle, also known as Crow Castle due to its black walls, is a significant historical site located in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, Japan. This castle is one of the most prominent examples of flatland castles, and it is considered a National Treasure of Japan. It is one of the four original construction castles to be designated as such. The castle's origins date back to the Sengoku period, and it has a rich history that adds to its cultural significance.

Hiroshima Castle, situated in Hiroshima, Japan, is a historical monument that dates back to the 1590s. Today, it serves as the Hiroshima history museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's rich past. The castle was constructed by Mōri Terumoto, a member of Toyotomi Hideyoshi's Council of Five Elders, between 1589 and 1599. It stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the era and the historical significance of the region.

The Shin-Yokohama Rāmen Museum is a unique food-themed amusement park situated in the Shin-Yokohama district of Kōhoku-ku, Yokohama, Japan. This museum is dedicated to the Japanese noodle soup, rāmen, and draws inspiration from Tokyo in 1958, the year when instant noodles were first created. It offers a unique experience for visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of rāmen.

Tokyo Sea Life Park, located in Kasai Rinkai Park in Tokyo, Japan, is a public aquarium that offers visitors a chance to explore various marine ecosystems. It's a great place for families and individuals who are interested in marine life and ecosystems.

The Edo-Tokyo Museum is a historical museum situated in Sumida, Tokyo. It is dedicated to preserving the history of Edo (old Tokyo) and the transition to the modern city it is today. The museum's name is a combination of the city's old name, Edo, and its current name, Tokyo.

The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, also known as the Miraikan, is a museum dedicated to showcasing the latest advancements in science and technology. It was established by Japan's Science and Technology Agency and opened its doors to the public in 2001. The museum is located in the Odaiba District of Tokyo and is easily accessible from downtown Tokyo via the Yurikamome driverless fully automated transit system.

The Yasukuni Shrine was established in June 1869 at the behest of Emperor Meiji as a memorial to those who died in the Boshin War. Initially, it was named Tōkyō Shōkonsha (東京招魂社), but it was later renamed Yasukuni Jinja in 1879. This historical background adds to the cultural significance of the shrine.

The Hakone Shrine, also known as Hakone Gongen, is a Shinto shrine that is situated on the shores of Lake Ashi in the city of Hakone, which is part of the Ashigarashimo district in Kanagawa Prefecture. This shrine is a significant part of Japanese history and culture, and it offers a unique experience for tourists who are interested in exploring the rich heritage of Japan.

Hase-dera, often referred to as Hase-kannon, is a renowned Buddhist temple situated in the city of Kamakura, in the Kanagawa Prefecture of Japan. This temple is a significant religious site and is well-known for its rich history and cultural significance. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Japanese history and Buddhist traditions.

The Sapporo Beer Museum is situated in the Sapporo Garden Park in Higashi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaidō, Japan. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique cultural experience for tourists interested in the history of beer production in Japan.

The National Museum of Western Art (NMWA) is a public art museum located in Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the exhibition and preservation of Western arts. The museum provides an opportunity for visitors to explore and appreciate a wide range of Western art forms.

Ōkōchi Sansō, located in Arashiyama, Kyoto, is the former residence and garden of Denjirō Ōkōchi, a renowned actor in Japanese period films. This historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the life of the actor and the era in which he lived. The villa and its gardens are open to the public, providing a unique opportunity to explore a piece of Japanese history and culture.

The Osaka Museum of History, colloquially known as "Rekihaku", is a modern high-rise building located in Osaka, Japan. The museum presents a comprehensive view of Japanese history, with a particular emphasis on the city of Osaka. The museum's exhibits start from the 10th floor and descend to the 7th floor, with special exhibitions extending to the 6th floor.

A visit to this museum is like a trip back in time. Being home to re-created historical buildings and streets, it shows the traditional way of life of Osakan citizens in various time periods. Explore the exhibitions and learn more about the city's history and its development.

The Kyoto International Manga Museum is situated in Nakagyō-ku, a district in Kyoto, Japan. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique cultural experience for tourists interested in manga and Japanese culture.

The National Museum of Nature and Science is situated in the northeast corner of Ueno Park in Tokyo. This location is easily accessible and offers a serene environment for visitors to explore the museum's exhibits. The park itself is a popular destination, making the museum a convenient stop for those touring the area.

The Japanese Sword Museum, situated in Tokyo, is a unique institution dedicated to the art of Japanese swordmaking. It is operated by the Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai (NBTHK), also known as The Society for Preservation of Japanese Art Swords. This museum is one of the few in Japan that specializes in Japanese swords, making it a distinctive destination for those interested in this aspect of Japanese culture and history.

The National Art Center, Tokyo (NACT) is a museum located in the Roppongi district of Minato, Tokyo, Japan. The museum was officially opened to the public in January 2007. It is one of the five institutions of the Independent Administrative Institution National Museum of Art.

The Kyoto National Museum, situated in Kyoto's Higashiyama ward, is one of Japan's major art museums. It primarily focuses on pre-modern Japanese and Asian art, offering visitors a deep dive into the rich history and culture of the region. The museum's collection is vast and diverse, providing a comprehensive overview of the artistic traditions of Japan and Asia.

The Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum is a significant site located in Nagasaki, Japan. It was constructed to commemorate the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki by the United States on August 9, 1945, during the Second World War. This museum serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of nuclear warfare and the importance of peace.

The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa is a contemporary art museum situated in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan. This museum is a significant cultural hub in the region, showcasing a wide range of contemporary art pieces.

Though small in size, this amusement park is one of its kind. Focused on musical instruments, music will encompass you the second you enter. It is home to a museum of historical music boxes, a singing fountain, and also European-inspired gardens.

The Hakone Open-Air Museum, also known as Chōkoku no mori bijutsukan, is situated in the city of Hakone, within the Ashigarashimo district of Kanagawa Prefecture in Japan. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique cultural experience in the heart of Japan's scenic beauty.

The Cup Noodles Museum, with locations in Yokohama, Ikeda, and Hong Kong, is dedicated to the life of Momofuku Andō and his invention of instant noodles. The first museum was inaugurated in Yokohama in 2011. This museum provides an insight into the life and work of Momofuku Andō, the Taiwanese-Japanese entrepreneur who introduced the first instant noodles to the market on August 25, 1958.

The Sapporo Clock Tower is a notable wooden structure situated in Chūō-ku, Sapporo, the largest city on the island of Hokkaidō, Japan. As a significant tourist attraction, it holds a unique place in the city's landscape and is easily accessible for visitors.

The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo, also known as MOMAT, is a prominent institution that specializes in the collection and exhibition of modern Japanese art. This museum, located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan, is renowned for its extensive collection of 20th-century art, which includes works from both Western-style and Nihonga artists.

The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, located in Motobu, is recognized as the second largest aquarium in the world, following the Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in Zhuhai, China. This impressive size allows for a diverse range of marine life to be housed and displayed, offering visitors a unique and comprehensive insight into the underwater world.

The Historical Village of Hokkaido is an open-air museum located in Sapporo, Hokkaidō, Japan. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and culture of Hokkaido in an immersive outdoor setting.

The Yayoi Kusama Museum is a contemporary art museum located in Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to showcasing the work of renowned Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. The museum provides an in-depth look into Kusama's artistic journey and her unique style that has made a significant impact on the global art scene.

The Nezu Museum, previously known as the Nezu Institute of Fine Arts, is an art museum located in the Minato district of Tokyo, Japan. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the city, offering visitors a chance to explore a vast collection of pre-modern Japanese and East Asian art.

The Aomori Museum of Art, also known as Aomori Kenritsu Bijutsukan, is a renowned museum located in Aomori, Japan. It was officially opened to the public in July 2006 and has since been a significant cultural hub in the region.

The Pola Museum of Art is a renowned art museum situated in the scenic locale of Hakone, in the Kanagawa Prefecture of Japan. This location offers visitors a chance to combine their love for art with the natural beauty of the region, making it an ideal destination for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

21_21 DESIGN SIGHT is an exhibition building located in Tokyo Midtown. It was designed by the renowned architect Tadao Ando. The building is a part of the Tokyo Midtown complex and is surrounded by a beautifully landscaped garden, the Midtown Garden. The design of the building is unique, with a large part of it being underground and the above-ground part featuring a long wall made of fair-faced concrete and a steel roof that slopes towards the garden.

The Nagai Botanical Garden is a spacious 8-hectare botanical garden nestled in the southeast corner of Nagai Park in Osaka, Japan. This location offers a serene and natural environment for visitors to explore and enjoy. The garden is easily accessible and provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city life.

The Manyo Botanical Garden of Nara, also known as Kasuga Taisha Garden, is one of the largest and oldest Manyo botanical gardens. It is situated in Nara, in the Nara Prefecture. The garden is nestled on the slopes of the Kasuga-taisha hill, adjacent to the grand Kasuga-taisha shrine. This location provides a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy.

The Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology, also referred to as the Toyota Tecno Museum, is a museum that focuses on the history of technology and industry. It provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of these sectors, making it an interesting destination for those interested in understanding the technological advancements and industrial developments over the years.

The Museum of Kyoto is a cultural institution that focuses on the history and culture of Kyoto. It provides a comprehensive overview of the city's past, from its ancient origins to its modern developments. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits that showcase the unique traditions, arts, and historical events that have shaped Kyoto over the centuries.

The Nagoya City Municipal Archives is a historic building situated in the city of Nagoya, in the Aichi Prefecture of Japan. This building holds significant historical value and provides a glimpse into the architectural trends of the past.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, situated in the scenic Ueno Park in Tokyo, Japan, is a government-supported institution. This location offers visitors the opportunity to combine a visit to the museum with a stroll through the park, making it an ideal destination for art and nature lovers alike.

Opened in 2012, this museum invites all children to come and play with their collections of traditional Japanese toys. Suitable for adults as well.

The Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery is a significant cultural site located in the Meiji-jingū-gaien Park in the Shinjuku district of Tokyo. It offers visitors a chance to explore a collection of paintings dedicated to the late Meiji Emperor. The gallery is easily accessible to the public, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.

One of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Japan, Ashikaga Flower Park is known for its great Japanese Wisteria flower, a vine which blooms in light purple and pink. It is huge - covers almost an acre of the park! As of April 2018, you can get to this botanical garden by train as a train statio

The Takayama Jin'ya, located in Hachiken-machi of the city of Takayama in Gifu Prefecture, is a significant historical site. It served as the Daikansho, or the combined residence and office of the shogun's appointed administrator, for Hida Province under the Tokugawa shogunate of Japan from 1692 to 1871. This period is known as the Edo period, a time of relative peace and stability in Japan's history. The Jin'ya has been protected as a National Historic Site since 1929, further emphasizing its historical importance.

Odawara Castle, known as Odawara-jō in Japanese, is situated in the city of Odawara, within the Kanagawa Prefecture of Japan. This historic castle has a rich history and has been a significant landmark in the region for centuries. It was last inhabited by the Ōkubo, a prominent Fudai-Daimyō family.

Marine World Uminonakamichi is a public aquarium situated in Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, Japan. It is recognized as a member of the Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums (JAZA), which is a testament to its commitment to animal welfare and conservation. The aquarium offers a diverse range of marine life for visitors to explore and learn about.

The Osaka International Peace Center, also known as Peace Osaka, is a peace museum that was established in August 1991. Located in the city of Osaka, Japan, the museum is dedicated to the themes of war and peace, with a particular focus on the destruction of Osaka during World War II.

The Chichu Art Museum, located in the southern part of Naoshima Island in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, is a unique museum built directly into the earth. The museum, which was designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, opened its doors to the public on July 18, 2004. This unique design allows the museum to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, providing a unique experience for visitors.

The Meguro Parasitological Museum, located in the Meguro Ward of central Tokyo, Japan, is a unique science museum dedicated to the study of parasites and parasitology. This museum offers a unique opportunity to learn about a diverse range of parasites and their life cycles.

The Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims is a significant site in Hiroshima, Japan. Established by the Japanese national government in 2002, the Hall serves as a memorial to the victims of the atomic bomb. It is one of the National Memorial Halls in the city, reflecting its importance in the nation's history.

Visit this museum and explore the exhibition on typical Japanese sweets. Later you can go downstairs to the Morihachi Honten sweets store and buy some candy for yourself.

The Osaka Science Museum is situated in the heart of Osaka, Japan, nestled between the Dōjima River and the Tosabori River. It is uniquely positioned above the subterranean National Museum of Art, making it a distinctive landmark in the city. The museum's location offers visitors the opportunity to explore the surrounding area and enjoy the scenic riverside views.

The Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts, located in the Tennōji district of Osaka, is a significant cultural landmark. The museum is situated on the site of the former residence of the Sumitomo family, a prominent Japanese family known for their contributions to various industries. The family donated the land, which includes a traditional Japanese garden, for the establishment of the museum.

The Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, situated in Koganei Park, Tokyo, was established in 1993. It operates under the Tokyo Metropolitan Foundation for History and Culture as a branch of the Edo-Tokyo Museum. The museum offers a unique open-air experience, allowing visitors to explore the architectural heritage of Tokyo.

The Sapporo-Maruyama Zoo is situated in Chūō-ku, a district of Sapporo, which is the capital city of the Japanese prefecture Hokkaidō. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city or the region.

Hida Folk Village, also known as Hida no Sato, is an open-air museum located in the city of Takayama, Gifu Prefecture, Japan. The museum features nearly 30 old farmhouses that showcase the traditional architectural styles of Japan's mountainous regions. These structures, which range from 100 to 500 years old, were brought from their original sites to preserve them. The village is situated on a hillside, offering picturesque views of the Takayama Valley and a large pond.

This complex of Italian-styled buildings, with beautiful gardens and a pond, is a place to go if looking for a scenic stroll. You can also visit the Venetian Glass Museum.

The Mori Art Museum, situated in Tokyo, is a hub for modern Japanese and international art. However, it's important to note that the museum does not possess its own collection. Instead, it focuses on showcasing a variety of exhibitions, providing visitors with a diverse and ever-changing array of artistic experiences.

The Yamato Museum, also known as the Kure Maritime Museum, is a significant destination in Kure, Hiroshima, Japan. The museum, which opened its doors to the public on April 23, 2005, is a popular spot for tourists interested in maritime history and World War II. It is named after the battleship Yamato, a flagship of the Japanese Combined Fleet during the war.

The Kyushu National Museum, also known as Kyūshū Kokuritsu Hakubutsukan, is situated in Dazaifu, close to Fukuoka. The museum's collections primarily revolve around ancient and classical Japanese art, offering visitors a deep dive into the country's rich artistic heritage. The museum's location in Dazaifu, a city known for its historical significance, further enhances the cultural experience.

Benesse Art Site Naoshima is a collective name for museums and art-related projects on the Japanese islands of Naoshima, Teshima, and Inujima in the Seto Inland Sea. These activities are organized by Benesse Holdings Inc. and Fukutake Foundation. The aim of this project is to showcase modern art and architecture in a different way, amidst the natural beauty of the islands.

Sankei-en is a public park located in Yokohama. It is unique in its collection of buildings that span various centuries and originate from different parts of Japan. This offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience a wide range of Japanese architectural styles and historical periods in one location.

Visit this quaint museum if looking for information about Nara, its history, and local culture.

The Teshima Art Museum is a unique destination for art and architecture enthusiasts. Located on the island of Teshima, in the Seto Inland Sea, this museum is part of the Kagawa Prefecture. The museum's design is a testament to the innovative architectural prowess of Japan, making it a fascinating place to explore for those interested in modern design and architecture.

The Tennoji Zoo, located in the Tennoji district of Osaka, Japan, holds a significant place in history as it is the third oldest zoo in the country. It was officially opened to the public on January 1, 1915. This historical significance adds to the charm and appeal of the zoo, making it a notable destination for tourists visiting Osaka.

Established in 1997, this entertaining museum is focused mainly on educating kids in an engaging way. It is full of various interactive exhibitions and hands-on workshops, that will keep your kids entertained for a long time. Don't worry about language barriers - all expositions are self-explanatory

Located in the heart of Nara, a city in central Japan, the Neiraku Museum is an art museum that offers a unique cultural experience. It provides an opportunity to explore a wide range of art pieces, making it an interesting destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

The Ishigaki City Yaeyama Museum, established in 1972, is located in Ishigaki, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of Ishigaki and the Yaeyama Islands.

The JMSDF Kure Museum is a maritime military museum located in Kure, Hiroshima Prefecture. It is dedicated to the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and showcases a variety of exhibits related to maritime defense and naval history. The museum is an excellent destination for those interested in military history, naval warfare, and maritime technology.

Shikoku Mura is an open-air architectural park situated in Takamatsu, in the Kagawa Prefecture of Japan. This unique park offers visitors a chance to explore and appreciate the architectural heritage of the Shikoku region.

This building formerly housed a pharmacy that belonged to one of Kanazawa’s most respected families. Nowadays, it is a museum displaying traditional pharmaceutical artefacts. Moreover, you can also explore exhibitions about traditional lifestyle of Kanazawa’s citizens here or meditate in a small, pe

The Yamato Bunkakan is a private museum situated in the city of Nara, Japan. It was inaugurated in the year 1960 and has since been a significant site for the appreciation of East Asian art. The museum's location in Nara, a city known for its rich historical and cultural heritage, adds to its appeal for tourists.

The Hiroshima City Museum of History and Traditional Crafts is located in Ujina-nishi Park in Hiroshima, Japan. This museum is dedicated to the history and traditional crafts of Hiroshima, providing a unique insight into the city's past and its cultural heritage.

This unique museum displays toilets & tableware made by the Toto company, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2016. Entry is free and the whole exhibitions is located in a beautiful modern building, so it is worth a short visit even if you are not interested in toilets.

The Teshima Yokoo House is an art museum located on the island of Teshima in Japan. It was designed by the renowned Japanese architect Yuko Nagayama, specifically for the 2013 Setouchi Triennale. The museum is a unique blend of traditional Japanese architecture and modern design, making it a fascinating destination for art and architecture enthusiasts.

Seisonkaku Villa, located in the city of Kanazawa in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, is a historical site with a rich backstory. The villa was constructed in 1863 by Maeda Nariyasu, the 13th daimyo of the Kaga clan, specifically as a retirement home for his mother, Shinryu-in. This historical context adds a layer of depth to the villa, making it a site of interest for tourists who appreciate history and culture.

The Japanese Folk Crafts Museum, or Nihon mingei-kan, is situated in the Komaba district of Meguro, Tokyo. The museum is dedicated to the collection and display of Japanese and exemplary foreign folk art. It was established in October 1936, thanks to the financial support of entrepreneur and patron Ōhara Magosaburō. The museum's mission is to showcase a selection of beautiful folk art pieces, providing a comprehensive view of this unique art form.

The Suginami Animation Museum is located in the Kamiogi area of Suginami Ward in Tokyo. The museum is managed by The Association of Japanese Animations, a general incorporated association. Unlike other animation museums, such as the Ghibli Museum in Mikata, Tokyo, the Suginami Animation Museum is not dedicated to a specific author but rather to animation as a whole. This makes it the first museum of its kind in Japan.

The Hara Model Railway Museum, located in Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Japan, is a unique destination for model railway enthusiasts. The museum, which opened its doors to the public on 10 July 2012, offers a fascinating insight into the world of model railways.

The Asahiyama Zoo, located in Asahikawa, Hokkaidō, Japan, is the northernmost zoo in the country. It was opened to the public in July 1967 and has since been a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The zoo is municipally owned and managed.

The Fukagawa Edo Museum is a small local museum located in Tokyo. It is supported by the Kōtō district, which is responsible for its maintenance and operation. The museum offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle and culture of the Edo period in Japan.

The Sumida Hokusai Museum, located in the Sumida district of Tokyo, is dedicated to the renowned painter Katsushika Hokusai. This museum is a tribute to Hokusai's life and works, offering visitors a unique insight into the artist's world.

Ad Museum Tokyo is a unique institution dedicated to the study and promotion of advertising. It is situated in the basement of the Caretta Shiodome Building in the Shiodome area of Minato ward, Tokyo. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.