Ready to explore beyond the usual tourist spots in Tokyo? This vibrant city is a haven for art, history, and unique experiences, and we’re about to take you on a journey to discover some of its hidden gems. These underrated museums offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich culture and fascinating past, often overlooked even by locals.
A Journey Through Time: The Tokyo National Museum
Nestled within the serene Ueno Park, the Tokyo National Museum stands as a testament to Japan’s rich cultural heritage. This national treasure, established in 1872, is the oldest and largest of its kind in the country. Within its walls, over 100,000 art and archaeological artifacts await your discovery, including nearly 100 national treasures and priceless relics.
The museum is a complex of six captivating buildings, each dedicated to a different aspect of artistic expression. The Honkan, the main building, showcases Japanese artwork from antiquity to the 19th century. The Hyokeikan, the oldest building, hosts temporary exhibitions that highlight Western-style architecture from the Meiji Period. The Toyokan houses a fascinating collection of Asian art and artifacts from countries such as China, Korea, and India. The Heiseikan, established in 1993, focuses on ancient Japanese cultures and hosts special exhibitions. The Horyuji Homotsukan, the newest addition, features religious objects donated by the Horyuji Temple in Nara. The Kuroda Memorial Hall displays the works of Kuroda Seiki, a pioneering figure in modern Western-style painting in Japan.
Beyond the exhibits, a beautiful Japanese garden invites you to relax and contemplate, while traditional teahouses, shops, and cafes offer a chance to savor the local flavors. The Tokyo National Museum is a must-visit for any art and culture enthusiast.
The Sumo Museum: A World of Grappling History
Ever wondered about the captivating world of Sumo wrestling? Then head to the Sumo Museum, located near the iconic Ryogoku Kokugikan arena. This fascinating museum is a treasure trove of information about the history and cultural significance of this national sport.
As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a captivating display of old photographs, artwork, and even the iconic belts worn by sumo wrestlers. The museum also boasts an extensive collection of more than 500 detailed sumo wrestler statues, offering a glimpse into the physical prowess of these athletes.
The museum’s single exhibition room changes exhibits six times a year, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience with every visit. This museum is a must-visit for anyone who wants to delve deeper into the rich history and cultural significance of Sumo wrestling.
The Tokyo Trick Art Museum: Where Reality Becomes Illusion
Get ready to have your mind blown at the Tokyo Trick Art Museum, located in the vibrant Odaiba district. This museum is a celebration of art that plays tricks on your eyes, creating a world of mind-bending illusions.
Walk through walls, shrink to the size of a giant panda, and become a character in a famous movie, all thanks to the museum’s ingenious 3D wall and floor paintings. The Tokyo Trick Art Museum, established by the entertainment company ASOBISYSTEM in 2014, is a testament to the power of playful art. The exhibits are constantly changing, ensuring a fresh and unforgettable experience every time you visit.
Step into a world of whimsical illusions and interactive art:
- The Edo period Zone: Journey back to ancient Japan with ninjas, traditional matsuri floats (festival floats), and funny obake (Japanese monsters).
- The Animal Zone: Get up close and personal with animal illusions, from a giant panda to cute koalas and a ferocious tiger.
- The Fantasy Zone: Dive into magical scenes from fairy tales and be enchanted by colorful butterflies.
- The Adventure Zone: Immerse yourself in thrilling adventures inspired by popular stories like Jaws, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Indiana Jones.
The Tokyo Trick Art Museum is an experience that will leave you wondering what’s real and what’s a magical illusion.
The Railway Museum: A Celebration of Trains and Tracks
For all the train enthusiasts, the Railway Museum, located in Saitama, is a dream come true. This museum is a testament to the history and evolution of trains in Japan, showcasing everything from the old-fashioned steam engines of the Meiji era to the sleek, modern bullet trains that zoom across the country.
Walk through 40 real train cars, sit in the driver’s seat, and experience the history of travel firsthand. Take a break and enjoy a delicious meal at the museum’s fantastic rooftop garden while watching trains glide past.
The museum also boasts a special “Children’s Zone,” where young train buffs can play with model trains, ride miniature trains, and even pretend to be train drivers on simulators. The Railway Museum is an engaging and interactive experience for train lovers of all ages.
The Ancient Egypt Museum of Tokyo: A Journey to the Land of Pharaohs
Step into the world of ancient Egypt at the Ancient Egypt Museum of Tokyo, a hidden gem in the heart of the bustling Shibuya district. This unique museum is Japan’s pioneer in showcasing the rich history and artifacts of ancient Egypt.
Be amazed by over a thousand treasures and artifacts, from intricate carvings and glittering jewelry to golden masks, statues, and even real mummies. Six genuine mummies are on display, accompanied by CT scans and videos that tell their captivating stories.
As you enter the museum, you’ll be greeted by a brief film that sets the stage for your exploration. Dimly lit sections mimic the atmosphere of a tomb, creating an immersive experience that transports you back in time. The Ancient Egypt Museum of Tokyo is a fascinating glimpse into the ancient world.
Unlocking Tokyo’s Hidden Gems
Tokyo’s lesser-known museums are a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural diversity. From the Tokyo National Museum‘s captivating art and artifacts to the Tokyo Trick Art Museum‘s mind-bending illusions and the Sumo Museum‘s deep dive into the fascinating world of Sumo wrestling, these museums offer a unique and unforgettable experience. So, which of these hidden gems in Tokyo piques your curiosity the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
