A city steeped in history and culture, Kyoto beckons tourists with its myriad museums, offering a captivating look through the rich tapestry of Japan’s past and present. In this guide, we’ll navigate through some of Kyoto’s most enchanting museums, each a unique window into the soul of this ancient city.
Kyoto National Museum: A Gateway to Tradition
The Kyoto National Museum is located in Higashiyama-ku, not far from Sanjusangen-do Temple, and is one of Kyoto’s major historical art museums. With rotating exhibits delving into the city’s history, visitors can trace the footsteps of Kyoto through the ages, so this is a fantastic spot to contextualize some of this ancient city’s history. Don’t miss the impressive collection of artifacts in the museum’s permanent collection, either.
Website: https://www.kyohaku.go.jp/eng/
Opening Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Entry until 4:30 p.m.)
Admission: 300 yen (700 yen for collection exhibitions) *Separate pricing for special exhibitions.
Kyoto International Manga Museum: Where Manga Comes to Life
For those seeking a more modern museum, the Kyoto International Manga Museum, located in Nakagyo-ku, is a must-visit for manga fans! Home to the world’s largest collection of manga, the museum is the place to step into the vibrant world of Japanese comics, with open shelves holding thousands of manga volumes. Whether you’re a manga connoisseur or a novice, the museum’s workshops and exhibits cater to all, offering a delightful peek into contemporary Japanese pop culture in the heart of the city.
Website: https://kyotomm.jp/en/
Opening Hours: 10:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Entry until 5:00 p.m.)
Admission: 900 yen
The Kyoto Museum of Crafts and Design: Crafting Memories
Delve into the hands-on experience of Kyoto’s artisanal heritage at the The Kyoto Museum of Crafts and Design in Higashiyama-ku. Here, the spotlight shines on the skilled craftsmen who have shaped the city’s identity through generations. From delicate kimonos to intricate ceramics, the exhibits celebrate the time-honored crafts that make Kyoto a living museum of tradition. Engage in workshops to try your hand at these crafts and take home a piece of Kyoto’s artistic legacy.
Website: https://kmtc.jp/en/
Opening Hours: 10 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Entry until 5:30 p.m.)
Admission: 500 yen
Kyoto Railway Museum: All Aboard the Nostalgia Train
Embark on a journey through Japan’s railway history at the Kyoto Railway Museum in Shimogyo-ku. Vintage trains and locomotives tell the story of a nation intricately connected by rail. Families will delight in the interactive exhibits and driving simulators that bring the magic of trains to life.
Website: https://www.kyotorailwaymuseum.jp/en/
Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Entry until 4:30 p.m.)
Admission: 1,500 yen
Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art: Where Contemporary Meets Classic
To enjoy a fusion of tradition and modernity, head to the Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art in Sakyo-ku. This contemporary art haven features exhibitions from Japanese and international artists, offering a fresh perspective on the evolving cultural landscape of Kyoto. The museum’s location in Okazaki, surrounded by serene gardens, adds to the overall immersive experience.
Website: https://kyotocity-kyocera.museum/en/
Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Entry until 5:30 p.m.)
Admission: 730 yen *Special exhibition fees vary.
National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto (MoMAK): A Canvas of Modern Expression
In Sakyo-ku, the National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto (MoMAK) has a focus on modern and contemporary Japanese works. The museum’s rotating exhibitions provide insights into the diverse expressions of the country’s artists. This is a great stop for contemporary art lovers, or if you’d just like an experience outside the historical.
Website: https://www.momak.go.jp/English/
Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Entry until 5:30 p.m.) Open until 8:00 p.m. (Last entry 7:30 p.m.) on Fridays.
Admission: 1,700 yen
Contemporary Art Spaces in Kyoto: The Ever-Evolving Canvas
You might also want to consider venturing into Kyoto’s contemporary art scene. Scattered across the city, various art spaces and galleries contribute to a vibrant and ever-evolving cultural landscape. From avant-garde installations to thought-provoking exhibitions, these spaces offer a glimpse at Kyoto’s creative pulse.
Kyoto’s variety of different museums offer a kaleidoscopic view of the city’s past, present, and future. Whether you’re drawn to the tactile workmanship of traditional crafts, the dynamic pages of manga, or the avant-garde expressions of contemporary artists, Kyoto has a museum for every taste.
*Prices listed in this article are accurate as of December, 2023. For the most up-to-date prices, be sure to check each museum’s website.
