15 Best Museums in Tokyo To Visit in Japan: 2025 Guide

If you plan to explore Tokyo, visiting its museums is a great way to learn about Japan's history, culture, and art. Whether you're traveling alone or with family, Tokyo has a museum for everyone—from the renowned Samurai Ninja Museum to the interactive exhibits at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation

For a full guide to Tokyo’s top sights, check out the Things to Do in Tokyo Map.

Here are the 15 best museums to visit in Tokyo this year!

Table of contents


Best cultural museums in Tokyo

1. Samurai Ninja Museum Tokyo

Want to learn about Japan's samurai and ninja history? The Samurai Ninja Museum in Asakusa is the perfect place!

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It’s the top-rated museum in Tokyo both on Google Maps and TripAdvisor, where you can:

  • Experience Samurai Armor: Get up close with real samurai armor and weapons like Japanese swords. You can even try them on and feel like a true warrior!
  • Free English Tours: The basic ticket includes a free guided history tour inside the museum. Every 30 minutes, you’ll learn about the fascinating history of samurai and ninja culture, including the code of Bushido.

This museum is an interactive, fun way to dive into Japan’s feudal past, and it’s a perfect spot for history lovers or anyone seeking a unique experience. 

For a complete cultural experience
Visit Maikoya's traditional tea ceremony, where you can wear a kimono, learn the art of tea-making, and enjoy matcha in a peaceful, authentic setting.

Address: 1 Chome-8-13, Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo
Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM (Daily)

Planning your trip? Use our Things to Do in Asakusa Map to discover the area's best attractions.

2. Tokyo National Museum

If you’re a fan of history and culture, the Tokyo National Museum is a must-visit.

As Japan's oldest and largest museum, it houses over 120,000 items that showcase the country’s art and history. You’ll find centuries of tradition here, from samurai swords to delicate pottery.

If you love art and history or simply want to explore Japan’s cultural journey, this is a museum you should visit!

Address: 13-9 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo
Hours: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Open until 8:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, closed on Mondays)

3. Edo-Tokyo Museum

The Edo-Tokyo Museum offers a glimpse into the dramatic changes that transformed Tokyo from a small fishing village called Edo into the sprawling, bustling metropolis it is today.

You can explore life-sized replicas of Edo-era streets, historical objects, and fun, hands-on displays. It’s a great way to experience Tokyo’s history up close. 

Address: 1 Chome-4-1 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo
Hours: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Weekdays)

Best art museums in Tokyo

4. Nezu Museum

Located in Omotesando, the Nezu Museum is a hidden art oasis that offers a stunning blend of traditional Japanese art and serene beauty.

Its collection includes calligraphy, paintings, ceramics, and textiles, with rotating exhibits showcasing pre-modern East Asian art.

Address: 6 Chome-5-1 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)

5. TeamLab Borderless

TeamLab Borderless is a truly one-of-a-kind museum that blends digital art with interactivity in a way you’ve never seen before.

Located in the trendy Azabudai Hills, this museum offers a mind-blowing experience for art lovers and tech enthusiasts alike.

Through interactive digital art, many rooms become an immersive art experience that constantly changes to the point where you become part of the art.

If you're looking for something cutting-edge and totally immersive, TeamLab Borderless is not to be missed.

Address: Garden Plaza B, B1, Azabudai Hills, Tokyo
Hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)

6. Mori Art Museum

Located on the 53rd floor of the iconic Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, the Mori Art Museum is one of Tokyo's top destinations for contemporary art lovers.

If you love art with a view (and a dash of modern flair), the Mori Art Museum is for you. 

Address: 6-10-1 Roppongi Hills Mori Tower 53F, Roppongi, Minato 106-6150
Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Daily), 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Tuesdays)

7. The National Art Center

If you’re looking for contemporary art and striking architecture, the National Art Center in Roppongi is the perfect place.

This unique museum stands out with its glass-wave façade and rotating exhibitions that always have something new to offer.

There are no permanent collections, as the museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, so there is alwayss something new to see.

Plus, it doesn't hold Japanese artists. It also exhibits international creators covering various mediums, styles, and themes, making it an ideal spot for art enthusiasts.

Address: 7 Chome-22-2 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)

Check the museum's online to see what exhibitions are on display during your visit!

8. Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum

For a peaceful and elegant escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum.

Set in a stunning Art Deco mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens, this museum offers a tranquil atmosphere.

The museum showcases a mix of Western and Japanese art in a setting as beautiful as the art itself. The mansion's well-maintained gardens add to the charm of the visit.

This is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a quieter, more refined museum experience.

Address: 5 Chome-21-9 Shirokanedai, Minato City, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)

9. Sumida Hokusai Museum

The Sumida Hokusai Museum celebrates the life and work of Katsushika Hokusai, the artist behind the world-famous Great Wave off Kanagawa.

The museum in the Sumida district of Tokyo is a must-see for art lovers and those interested in traditional Japanese art.

You can view original prints, sketches, and paintings of HokusaiHokusai'sic evolution. Plus, the museum often hosts workshops and lectures on ukiyo-e (woodblock printing) to provide deeper insights into the artist's technique and cultural influence.

Address: 2 Chome-7-2 Kamezawa, Sumida City, Tokyo
Hours: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)

Best science museums in Tokyo

10. Miraikan- National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation

Miraikan is a must-visit for science and tech enthusiasts.

The museum's interactive exhibits on robotics, space exploration, and sustainability showcase its vision of the future. 

It is a perfect spot to explore how technology is shaping our world.

Address: 2-3-6 Aomi, Koto City, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)

11. Tokyo Photographic Art Museum

The Tokyo Photographic Art Museum (TOP Museum) offers an immersive journey into the world of photography.

TOP Museum isn’t just viewing—its engaging workshops and events allow visitors to explore the techniques and stories behind the lens.

With its inspiring exhibitions and rich history, this museum is a visual haven for anyone captivated by the power of images.

Address: 1-13-3 Meguro, Meguro City, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)

Best anime museums in Tokyo

12. Ghibli Museum

Anime fans, rejoice! The Ghibli Museum in Mitaka is a magical experience that takes you into the whimsical worlds of Studio Ghibli’s films like My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Princess Mononoke.

Please note that tickets are extremely hard to get and sell out quickly, so you’ll need to book them at least ONE MONTH in advance to secure your spot.

Address: 1 Chome-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)

13. Suginami Animation Museum

The Suginami Animation Museum is a treasure trove for fans of Japanese animation.

This animation museum teaches about the history of Japanese animation, from iconic studios to legendary animators, and shows the evolution of anime in Japan. 

They’ll let you try to animate your own scenes using professional tools and techniques. 

Address: 3-29-5 Kamiyama, Suginami City, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)

Best food museums

14. Yokohama Cupnoodles Museum

Located just outside Tokyo, the Yokohama Cupnoodles Museum is a unique museum celebrating the invention of instant ramen by Momofuku Ando, the founder of Nissin, and the global impact of his creation.

Through engaging exhibits, visitors can learn about the origins of Cup Noodles, explore the innovative process behind their creation, and even make their own custom Cup Noodles. 

Though technically in Yokohama, not Tokyo, the Cupnoodles Museum is still well worth a visit for anyone in the area or those traveling from Tokyo. It makes a good day trip.

It offers a deliciously quirky and memorable experience. 

Address: 2 Chome-3-4 Takashima, Nishi Ward, Yokohama
Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)

15. Yebisu Beer Museum

In the charming Ebisu district, the Yebisu Beer Museum invites visitors to explore the legacy of one of Japan’s most celebrated beer brands.

Here, you can uncover the rich history behind Yebisu Beer, from its humble beginnings to its rise as a premium drink enjoyed worldwide. 

The museum offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s culture and how Yebisu symbolizes quality and craftsmanship in the beer industry.

Address: 1-13-2 Mita, Minato City, Tokyo
Hours: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)


Frequently asked questions

What is the most famous museum in Tokyo?

The Tokyo National Museum is the most famous in Tokyo. As Japan’s oldest and largest museum, it showcases 120,000 artifacts demonstrating the country’s history and culture.

Is the Nezu Museum worth visiting?

Yes! The Nezu Museum is highly recommended for those who appreciate traditional Japanese art and architecture.

Is the Tokyo National Museum worth visiting?

Absolutely. The Tokyo National Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japan’s history and culture. It has six floors of exhibits for anyone who loves art, history, or traditional craftsmanship.

What is the most visited museum in Japan?

The Tokyo National Museum is likely the most visited in Japan due to its massive collection and historical significance. Next would most likely be TeamLab Borderless for its digital immersion. 


In closing

Exploring the best museums in Tokyo offers insight into Japan’s history, art, and innovation. Whether you're captivated by traditional crafts, contemporary art, or interactive science exhibits, Tokyo's museums cater to every interest.


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