Are you looking for where to see traditional Japanese arts in Tokyo? Keep reading on for more information. Tokyo is a city often characterized by sci-fi, futuristic architecture and anything at the pinnacle of technological innovation. But the city is also deeply connected to its past. Dive into Tokyo’s creative history with our guide below.
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Where to See Traditional Japanese Arts in Tokyo
Nezu Museum
Home to Japanese businessman and philanthropist Nezu Kaichirō, the Nezu Museum houses one of Tokyo’s most comprehensive collections of Japanese and East Asian art, including calligraphy, painting and ceramics . and textiles. After Nezu’s death, his son turned his late father’s house into a public museum to house and share his impressive collection. Walk inside and you’ll also find a lush Japanese-style garden complete with tranquil ponds and small Buddha statues.
National Noh Theater
Different from kabuki, and perhaps more underrated, Noh is a very unique Japanese performance art form. Dating back to the 14th century, this form of theater, which includes dance, music, and drama, requires performers to wear limited masks and traditional long clothes when performing in sync with the music. . Eye-catching performances are run by the Arts Council of Japan, which hosts performances at the National Noh Theater in Sendagaya.
2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan
While Akihabara’s neon-lit area is known for its multitude of anime characters and toy shops, it’s also home to one of Tokyo’s best craft shopping. Known as 2k540 Aki-Oka Artisan, the collection of shops is located below the Yamanote line between Akihabara and Okachimachi Stations (hence the name Aki-Oka). Here you’ll find around 50 different shops and cafes, all of which showcase classic Japanese arts and crafts created by contemporary artisans.
Waseda University Theater Museum
To learn more about Japan’s love of theater, you should head to Waseda University, where you’ll find the city’s fascinating Theater Museum, which is also Asia’s only museum dedicated solely to the stage. discount. discount. discount. Once inside, you’ll discover exhibits devoted to classical Japanese performing arts such as kabuki and noh, as well as a large display of Western theater’s influence on the performing arts modern Japan. The Theater Museum often draws visitors to their events by inviting them to participate in workshops and role-playing games.
Amuse Museum
When it comes to Japanese art, no form is more influential and iconic than ukiyo-e woodblock printing. Located in the historic neighborhood of Asakusa, the Amuse Museum houses a large collection of ukiyo-e prints and textiles from the Edo period. Located near Asakusa Station, it’s an ideal sightseeing spot to add to your itinerary.
Washi Paper Museum
The Paper Museum in Oji is a museum like no other. Home to about 40,000 items, it covers all aspects of the paper world, both practical and artistic. Inside this rather striking building, you’ll find displays covering the invention of paper, its history, and of course, origami. For a chance to make your own washi (Japanese paper), be sure to visit the museum on the weekends.
Kimono Ome Museum
Home to a collection of more than 500 kimonos, the Ome Kimono Museum celebrates traditional garments. Built inside a 200-year-old warehouse, the seasonally displayed collection offers no shortage of stunning exhibits. Stroll around the museum and you’ll find kimonos worn by the royal family and historical works, including Prince Nashimoto’s outfit during Emperor Taishō’s coronation in the early 1900s.
Samurai Museum
Do you want to be a ninja or a samurai? Good choice – at the Samurai Museum in Shinjuku, you can not only see different types of historical armor, katana and matching guns, but also take pictures in samurai attire and even learn how to wield a sword Japan properly.
Watari Museum of Contemporary Art
The trendy areas of Shibuya, Harajuku and Omotesando are better known as popular fashion hubs, but they should also be known for their art! The Watari Museum of Contemporary Art, or Watarium, is a modern art gallery housed in an unusual building. This small but powerful gallery has two shops and a cafe where you can leisurely enjoy art.
Suginami Animation Museum
Ever wanted to make your own anime? You can learn the tricks of the trade at the Suginami Animation Museum. Here you can learn about the history of anime, the techniques used to create each frame, and even see some rare pieces – all for free.
