JapanTravel Tips

Transportation and Navigation around Tokyo National Museum

1. What is the best mode of transportation to get to Tokyo National Museum?

The best mode of transportation to get to Tokyo National Museum is by taking the train. The museum is located near Ueno Station, which can be easily accessed by various train lines such as the JR Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, and Ueno Tokyo Line. Additionally, there are also subway lines (Ginza Line and Hibiya Line) that have stops near the museum’s entrance.

2. How much does it cost to visit Tokyo National Museum?
The entrance fee for adults is 620 yen (about $5.50 USD) for permanent exhibitions and 1,030 yen (about $9 USD) for special exhibitions. Students and seniors receive discounted tickets at 410 yen (about $3.60 USD) for permanent exhibitions and 720 yen (about $6.40 USD) for special exhibitions.

3. Are there any discounts available for visiting Tokyo National Museum?
Yes, there are discounted tickets available at Tokyo National Museum. Students with a valid student ID card can receive discounted tickets for both permanent and special exhibitions. Seniors aged 65 years old or above can also receive discounted tickets with proof of age.

4.Are there any guided tours available at Tokyo National Museum?
Yes, guided tours are available at Tokyo National Museum in English and Japanese. These tours are included in the cost of admission and are conducted several times a day on a first-come-first-serve basis.

5.Can you take photos inside Tokyo National Museum?
Photography is allowed inside the museum’s galleries, except in designated areas where photography is prohibited (usually indicated by signs). Flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are not allowed.

6.Is there a dress code for visiting Tokyo National Museum?
There is no specific dress code for visiting the museum; however, visitors should dress comfortably as the galleries can be quite large with lots of walking involved. It is also recommended to bring an extra layer as some of the galleries can be cool in temperature.

7.How long does it take to visit Tokyo National Museum?
It typically takes 2-3 hours to visit the permanent exhibitions at Tokyo National Museum. However, for those interested in exploring in-depth or visiting special exhibitions, more time may be needed. The museum’s website also offers suggested itineraries for visitors based on different interests and time constraints.

8.Is there an audio guide available at Tokyo National Museum?
Yes, audio guides are available for rent at the museum. These guides provide information about the museum’s collection in multiple languages including English, Chinese, Korean, French, Spanish, German, and Italian.

9.Can I bring food and drinks into Tokyo National Museum?
Food and drinks are not allowed inside the museum’s galleries; however, there is a designated rest area where visitors can enjoy their own packed meals or purchase snacks from vending machines. Additionally, there are also several restaurants and cafes within the museum’s grounds.

2. How long does it take to get there from the nearest train station?


The duration of the journey from the nearest train station will depend on the specific location and distance from the destination. It is best to check with the transportation provider or use a map app for an accurate estimate.

3. Are there any convenient bus routes that stop near the museum?

It depends on where you are coming from. However, according to the museum’s website, there is a bus stop located directly in front of the museum entrance for routes 50 and 41. Additionally, routes 43 and 57 have stops within a few blocks of the museum. It is best to check with your local public transportation system for specific route details and schedules.

4. What is the parking situation like at Tokyo National Museum?


The Tokyo National Museum has a limited number of parking spots available for visitors, so it is recommended to use public transportation instead. However, if driving, there is a paid parking lot for cars and motorcycles located near the museum entrance. The cost for parking is 500 yen per hour. There are also designated bicycle parking areas available for free.

5. Is it easy to navigate around the museum once inside?

The ease of navigation within the museum will depend on factors such as the layout and size of the museum, as well as any signage or maps provided. Some larger or more complex museums may have interactive maps or guides available to help visitors navigate, while smaller museums may have simpler layouts that are easier to navigate. Additionally, some museums may offer audio guides or docent-led tours to help visitors navigate and learn about the exhibits. Overall, it’s best to check with a specific museum before visiting to see what resources they have available for visitors.

6. Are there any guided tours available for visitors who want a more in-depth experience?


Yes, there are guided tours available for visitors at many popular tourist destinations. These guided tours are typically led by knowledgeable tour guides who can provide more in-depth information and context about the place you are visiting. Many of these guided tours also offer special access to areas that may not be open to the general public. Information on these tours can usually be found on the official website or at visitor centers.

7. What are some nearby landmarks or attractions that can be accessed on foot from the museum?


– Art Institute of Chicago
– Millennium Park
– Grant Park
– Buckingham Fountain
– Cloud Gate (The Bean)

8. Is there a gift shop or souvenir store at Tokyo National Museum for visitors to purchase memorabilia?


Yes, there is a gift shop at Tokyo National Museum where visitors can purchase a variety of souvenirs and gifts related to the museum’s exhibitions and collections. The shop offers items such as postcards, books, stationery, ceramics, and replicas of artifacts from the museum’s collection. Visitors can also find traditional Japanese crafts and local products in the gift shop.

9. Can visitors bring food and drinks inside the museum?


No, outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the museum. However, there may be designated areas for visitors to eat or drink purchased food items within the museum premises.

10. Are there wheelchair accessible routes and facilities available for disabled visitors?


Yes, most major attractions and public places have wheelchair accessible routes and facilities available for disabled visitors. This may include designated parking spaces, ramps or elevators for entry, accessible restrooms, and wheelchair-friendly paths throughout the venue. Some attractions may also offer accessible tours or specialized equipment upon request. Visitors are encouraged to contact individual attractions in advance to inquire about accessibility options.

11. What is the cost of admission for adults, children, and seniors at Tokyo National Museum?

The cost of admission for adults is 620 yen, children (under 18) and seniors (over 65) are free. However, some special exhibitions may require additional fees.

12. Is photography allowed inside the museum, and are there any restrictions on flash or tripods?


Photography is allowed inside the museum, however no flash photography is permitted. Tripods are also not allowed, as they may obstruct pathways and hinder other visitors’ experiences.

13. Are there any special events or exhibitions currently happening at Tokyo National Museum that should not be missed?


Yes, there are several special events and exhibitions that are currently happening at Tokyo National Museum:

1. “The Tale of Genji: A Visual Feast” (until June 7, 2021) – This exhibition showcases the world-renowned Japanese literary classic, “The Tale of Genji,” through various artworks, including rare scrolls and paintings.

2. “Treasures of the Imperial Collections” (until May 9, 2021) – This special exhibition features national treasures and important cultural properties from the Imperial collections, including Buddhist sculptures and calligraphy.

3. “French Printmaking in the Golden Age of Romanticism” (until June 27, 2021) – This exhibition explores French printmaking during the Romantic period and its influence on Japanese art.

4. “Frontier Art: Japan’s Possibilities in Traditional Crafts”- (until August 8, 2021) – This event showcases traditional crafts from different regions of Japan to highlight their unique aesthetic sensibilities and techniques.

5. Cultural events such as live performances of traditional Japanese music and dance are also frequently held at the museum and should not be missed. These events provide a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and its connection to art.

It is recommended to check Tokyo National Museum’s official website for updates on current and upcoming special events and exhibitions.

14. How far is Narita International Airport from Tokyo National Museum, and what is the best way to get there?

Narita International Airport is approximately 60 kilometers away from Tokyo National Museum. The best way to get there is by taking the Narita Express train, which takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes and costs around 3000 yen. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus, which may take longer depending on traffic conditions and cost more than the train.

15. Can visitors rent audio guides or use an app for self-guided tours of the museum’s exhibits?


Yes, visitors can rent audio guides or use an app for self-guided tours of the museum’s exhibits. The equipment and instructions can be obtained at the museum’s front desk.

16. Are there any discounts available for entrance fees, such as for students or group bookings?


It depends on the specific attraction or venue. Some may offer discounts for students or group bookings, while others may not have any discounts available. It is best to check the website or contact the attraction directly for more information on potential discounts.

17 .What is the recommended amount of time needed to fully explore Tokyo National Museum?


The recommended amount of time needed to fully explore Tokyo National Museum is at least 3-4 hours. However, if you want to see everything in detail and visit all the exhibitions, it may take up to a full day.

18 .Are there any recommended times of day when crowds are smaller at Tokyo National Museum?

The Tokyo National Museum is typically less crowded early in the morning and on weekdays. It is also recommended to visit during off-peak seasons such as November to February, as well as avoiding weekends and Japanese national holidays. Monday is also known to be the museum’s “holiday,” where some areas may be closed for maintenance. It is best to check the museum’s schedule before planning your visit.

19 .Is it possible to book tickets online in advance for a specific date and time slot to avoid long lines?


Yes, it is possible to book tickets online in advance for a specific date and time slot to avoid long lines. Many attractions, events, and venues have their own websites where customers can purchase tickets in advance. Alternatively, there are also third-party ticketing websites or apps that allow users to buy tickets for various activities and attractions in advance. By booking tickets online in advance, you can save time and skip the queues at the ticket counters on the day of your visit. However, it is important to check the terms and conditions carefully before booking as some tickets may be non-refundable or have specific restrictions.

20 .How can one plan out their visit to Tokyo National Museum efficiently, considering its size and vast collection of artifacts and artwork from various periods in Japanese history?


1. Research and prioritize: Before visiting the Tokyo National Museum, do some research on its collection and make a list of the artifacts or periods that you are most interested in seeing. This will help you create a rough itinerary for your visit.

2. Check the museum’s website: The Tokyo National Museum’s website has detailed information about its current exhibitions, special events, opening hours, and cultural activities. Be sure to check this before your visit to plan accordingly.

3. Download a map: The museum is spread out over several buildings, so it can be helpful to download a map beforehand or pick one up at the entrance. This will make it easier for you to navigate through the different galleries and locate the exhibits you want to see.

4. Start with the highlights: The Tokyo National Museum has many must-see artifacts such as the “National Treasure Gallery” and “Horyuji Treasures,” which are located in separate buildings within the museum complex. Begin your visit by prioritizing these highlights, as they tend to be more popular and can get crowded later in the day.

5. Consider guided tours: If you want a more structured approach to your visit, consider joining one of the Tokyo National Museum’s guided tours. They offer both English and Japanese tours that cover different themes and exhibitions.

6. Use audio guides or rent an iPad: For a more immersive experience, consider using audio guides or renting an iPad at the museum’s Information Center for an additional fee. These devices provide detailed explanations of each artifact in various languages.

7.YPlan breaks: The Tokyo National Museum is quite large, so it is important not to rush through your visit. Plan breaks throughout your itinerary to rest, have snacks or drinks at the museum cafes, or explore the surrounding gardens.

8.Cover one building at a time: Instead of attempting to see everything in one go, consider focusing on one building or exhibition area at a time. This will help you pace yourself and avoid feeling overwhelmed by the vast collection.

9. Visit during weekdays: The museum tends to be less crowded on weekdays than weekends, so if possible, plan your visit accordingly to avoid long queues or crowds.

10. Don’t forget the gift shop: Before leaving, make sure to stop by the gift shop for some souvenirs and books related to the museum’s exhibits and collections. This is also a great spot to pick up unique gifts for friends and family back home.