Kyoto is one of the world's leading cultural cities. Not only temples and shrines, but also museums and art galleries are abundant. From masterpieces of Japanese art to contemporary art and the essence of crafts, stopping by during your trip will deepen your appreciation of Kyoto's richness. Here, we have carefully selected 10 facilities recommended for foreign travelers.
Kyoto National Museum (Kyoto Kokuritsu Hakubutsukan)
The impressive red-brick main building was built in the Meiji period. It houses many national treasures and important cultural properties, allowing you to trace the history of Japanese art. The red-brick Meiji Kotokan is currently closed for seismic retrofitting (with occasional special openings), but its exterior can be admired; exhibitions are held in the Heisei Chishinkan wing. Special exhibitions are also abundant.
Museum of Kyoto (Kyoto Bunka Hakubutsukan)
A comprehensive introduction to Kyoto's history and culture. The annex, which uses the former Bank of Japan Kyoto branch building, is also a highlight. You can learn about Kyoto's transformation through videos and models, making it easy for beginners to understand.
Kyoto International Manga Museum (Kyoto Kokusai Manga Museum)
A facility that could be called the mecca of manga. It boasts a collection of about 300,000 items, and you can read manga from around the world. There are spaces where you can actually pick up and read manga, enjoyable for both children and adults.
The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto (Kyoto Kokuritsu Kindai Bijutsukan)
A modern art museum located in Okazaki Park. It houses modern and contemporary art from Japan and abroad. Particularly rich are works by Kyoto-related Japanese painters and craft artists. The view from the café is also nice.
Fukuda Art Museum (Fukuda Bijutsukan)
Opened in Arashiyama in 2019. It primarily exhibits Japanese paintings from the Edo period to the modern era, with works reflecting the four seasons. The location overlooking Togetsukyo Bridge is also appealing. Take a break at the museum café "Pan to Espresso to Fukuda Art Museum."
Kyoto Traditional Crafts Museum (Kyoto Dentou Kogei-kan)
Demonstrations and exhibitions of Kyoto's traditional crafts such as Kyo-yuzen dyeing, Kyo-yaki pottery, and lacquerware. You can watch young artisans demonstrate their skills up close. You can also purchase one-of-a-kind crafts as souvenirs.
Raku Museum (Raku Bijutsukan)
A museum dedicated to Raku-yaki (Raku ware), beloved in the world of tea ceremony. It displays successive generations of works from the Raku family. You can quietly appreciate the shapes and glazes of tea bowls.
Kyoto Railway Museum (Kyoto Tetsudo Hakubutsukan)
A railway theme park in Umekoji Park. It features real exhibits from steam locomotives to Shinkansen. Driving simulators are also popular. Ideal for families with children.
Kawai Kanjiro Memorial Museum (Kawai Kanjiro Kinenkan)
The former home and workshop of potter Kawai Kanjiro is open to the public. It has a unique atmosphere where works and living space are integrated. Wood carvings and calligraphy are also displayed. A quiet time flows here.
Kyoto Prefectural Garden of Fine Art (Kyoto Furitsu Toban Meiga no Niwa)
An outdoor art museum. World-famous paintings are reproduced on ceramic boards and placed in a garden. You can enjoy Monet's Water Lilies, Leonardo's The Last Supper and more. Admission is just 100 yen, perfect for a stroll.
【HOW】Many museums and galleries are closed on Mondays, so check the official website in advance. To avoid crowds, early morning is recommended. The Subway & Bus One-Day Pass (1,100 yen for adults) can save on transportation costs. Special exhibitions may require an additional fee, so if you have a specific exhibition in mind, consider making a reservation.