“The oldest and largest museum in Japan houses 110;000 artifacts across five galleries; including 89 National Treasures such as Jomon pottery and samurai blade-work; the Honkan gallery is a 1938 'Imperial Crown' style stone monument; walk the lacquerware section at 10 am; the low-UV lighting makes the hand-painted gold dust on the 17th-century boxes appear to float in a void of black.”
About Tokyo National Museum
The oldest and largest museum in Japan houses 110;000 artifacts across five galleries; including 89 National Treasures such as Jomon pottery and samurai blade-work; the Honkan gallery is a 1938 'Imperial Crown' style stone monument; walk the lacquerware section at 10 am; the low-UV lighting makes the hand-painted gold dust on the 17th-century boxes appear to float in a void of black.
Why Visit
Tokyo National Museum is one of Japan's defining sites — a place that rewards every visitor differently.
✦ Insider Tips
- 1
Book tickets for Tokyo National Museum in advance to skip long queues.
- 2
Hire a local guide to unlock the stories behind every corner.
- 3
Spend extra time in the least-visited sections — they're often the most rewarding.
