Kyoto National Museum: A Treasure Trove of Japanese Art in Kyoto

Name: Kyoto National Museum
Address: Kyoto, Kyoto, 605-0931, JP
Rating: 4.2

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Kyoto National Museum: A Treasure Trove of Japanese Art in Kyoto

Overview

The Kyoto National Museum, nestled in the heart of Kyoto, is a premier destination for art enthusiasts and culture seekers. Established in 1897, this esteemed museum serves as a beacon for the preservation and exhibition of Japan's artistic legacy. With an impressive assortment of over 12,000 art pieces, the museum organizes its collection into three primary categories: fine arts, showcasing exquisite calligraphy, sculpture, and paintings; handicrafts, which feature intricate pottery, metalwork, lacquerware, and fabrics; and archaeology, offering a glimpse into Japan's historical artifacts. Visitors are invited to explore the expansive galleries, including the contemporary Heisei Chishinkan building, inaugurated in 2014 and designed by the renowned Taniguchi Yoshio. Don't miss the opportunity to view temporary exhibitions in the original Meiji Kotokan building. To complete your visit, stop by the Benrido shop for unique artifacts and enjoy a delightful snack and tea at Café Karafune-ya.

Reviews

Kenji Sato

Japan

This museum is a great place to visit, particularly during hot summer days or chilly winters. The staff is friendly and accommodating. They have extended hours on Fridays, remaining open late into the night.

Yuki Nakamura

Japan

The architecture of the museum is modern and stylish; the entrance fee is quite affordable. However, photography is prohibited in the exhibition areas without clear reasoning, which feels somewhat arbitrary. The lighting in the exhibits is dim, creating a somber ambiance, akin to a memorial service. The primary floor features Buddha statues, while additional displays include scrolls and some damaged jars or cases. Overall, despite the restrictions, the entrance fee is low, and the structure itself is quite appealing.

Taro Yamamoto

Japan

As of November 2024, the main exhibition is closed, and the ticket price only grants access to the special exhibit. The Pure Land exhibit was extremely well put together and interesting, though I found the ticket price slightly on the higher side. The building itself is stunning, and the staff are lovely.

Aiko Tanaka

Japan

I visited the Pure Land exhibit; it was fascinating and featured an impressive array of items. However, I felt the entry fee was a bit steep given that the museum's main collection is currently unavailable. I spent just over an hour exploring the exhibit. The surrounding grounds are beautifully maintained, providing a tranquil spot for relaxation. It's definitely worth visiting since it's located right across from Sanjusangendo.

Hiroshi Takeda

Japan

This location was part of our hop-on-hop-off tour. It wasn't exactly what I expected; it feels more like an exhibition than a traditional museum, but it was still amazing. The various levels allow you to start at the top and work your way down, showcasing products from throughout the history of the region. It's a very quiet and peaceful environment. Tickets are inexpensive. Although part of a tour, it’s also easy to reach via public transportation, though I'm unsure about parking. I highly recommend this spot for tourists and locals alike. The staff were friendly and accommodating, making my visit very enjoyable.