Mitsui Memorial Museum Tokyo
Discover exquisite Japanese art, from Edo period masterpieces to tea ceremony artifacts and samurai heritage.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Mitsui Memorial Museum Tokyo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover exquisite Japanese art, from Edo period masterpieces to tea ceremony artifacts and samurai heritage.
"Always wonderful exhibitions on ancient Japan, a must-visit for art lovers!"
Check current exhibitions
Always check the museum's website for current and upcoming exhibitions before your visit.
Book tickets online
For popular shows, booking tickets online can save time and guarantee entry.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Edo Period Art & Artifacts
Permanent Collection
Immerse yourself in the rich artistic heritage of Japan's Edo period, featuring exquisite scrolls and paintings.

Tea Ceremony Utensils
Special Exhibitions
Discover the refined aesthetics of the Japanese tea ceremony through a collection of beautiful and historic utensils.

Samurai Swords and Armor
Special Exhibitions
Marvel at the craftsmanship of ancient samurai swords and intricate warrior armor, often featured in thematic displays.
Seasonal Doll Exhibitions
Special Exhibitions
Experience unique displays of traditional Japanese dolls, especially during Children's Day, showcasing family heirlooms.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Navigating Exhibitions and Tickets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check current exhibitions
Always check the museum's website for current and upcoming exhibitions before your visit.
Book tickets online
For popular shows, booking tickets online can save time and guarantee entry.
Combine with Ginza exploration
The museum is in Ginza, perfect for combining with shopping and dining.
Allow ample time
Give yourself at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check current exhibitions
Always check the museum's website for current and upcoming exhibitions before your visit.
Book tickets online
For popular shows, booking tickets online can save time and guarantee entry.
Combine with Ginza exploration
The museum is in Ginza, perfect for combining with shopping and dining.
Allow ample time
Give yourself at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Mitsui Memorial Museum for its consistently high-quality and diverse exhibitions, often featuring unique historical Japanese art and artifacts. The museum's location in Ginza is also a significant plus, allowing for easy integration into a day of shopping and dining. While generally well-received, some visitors note that photography restrictions can be a drawback for content creators.
"Excellent exhibition!
It's pleasing to see the beautiful, well-curated artworks, from tea wares to noh robes, here. Great to get to know more about traditional Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship."
loan quach
"Tiny but super great museum!!! Exhibition is well curated and offers a very immersive experience to Japanese culture and art. And the building itself and its interior design are worth a look."
Jinghe Fang
"During my visit was exhibition about tea 🍵. It was only in Japanese. But it was nice experience."
Dušan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mitsui Memorial Museum of Art is conveniently located in Ginza. You can easily reach it via the Tokyo Metro. Take the Ginza Line, Hibiya Line, or Marunouchi Line to Ginza Station, or the Yurakucho Line to Ginza-Itchome Station. It's a short walk from these stations.
While there isn't dedicated parking for the museum, the Mitsukoshi Ginza Department Store, where it's located, has parking facilities. However, using public transport is generally recommended due to potential traffic and parking costs in Ginza.
From Shinjuku, take the Marunouchi Line directly to Ginza Station. The journey typically takes around 15-20 minutes. From Ginza Station, it's a short walk to the museum.
The Japan Rail Pass is primarily for JR lines. The Mitsui Memorial Museum is best accessed via the Tokyo Metro subway lines, which are not covered by the JR Pass. You'll need to purchase separate subway tickets or use a Pasmo/Suica card.
The museum is generally accessible, but it's always a good idea to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on accessibility features and any specific limitations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary depending on the exhibition. General admission for adults typically ranges from ¥1,000 to ¥2,500. It's best to check the museum's official website for the exact cost of the current exhibition you plan to visit.
Yes, you can usually buy tickets at the museum's ticket counter. However, for highly popular exhibitions, it's advisable to purchase tickets in advance online to avoid long queues or potential sell-outs.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Some passes, like The Tokyo Pass, might offer entry to certain exhibitions. Check the museum's website or pass provider for details.
Opening hours typically range from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry usually around 30 minutes before closing. However, hours can vary by exhibition and day, so always confirm on their official website.
The museum is generally closed on Mondays and during New Year's holidays. Specific closing days can vary, so it's essential to check the museum's official calendar for the most accurate information.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The museum showcases a diverse collection, including Japanese art from the Edo period, calligraphy, ceramics, samurai swords, armor, and traditional tea ceremony items. They also host special exhibitions on various themes.
Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours at the museum, depending on the exhibition's size and their personal interest. If you're a keen art enthusiast, you might want to allocate more time.
Photography policies vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography may be permitted for personal use in some areas, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Always look for signage or ask staff for clarification.
Guided tours are not always regularly scheduled and may depend on the specific exhibition. It's best to check the museum's website or inquire at the information desk upon arrival to see if any tours are offered.
The Mitsui Memorial Museum of Art is located on the 8th floor of the Mitsukoshi Ginza Department Store.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not have a dedicated cafe or restaurant. However, it is located within the Mitsukoshi Ginza Department Store, which offers a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants.
Ginza is a culinary hub with countless dining choices. You can find everything from traditional Japanese cuisine like sushi and tempura to international flavors. Many visitors enjoy lunch at restaurants within the Mitsukoshi department store itself.
Typically, food and drinks are not allowed inside the exhibition halls of museums to protect the artifacts. There are usually designated areas or the surrounding department store and streets offer places to eat.
📸 📸 Photography
While photography inside the exhibition halls is often restricted, the museum's architecture and the exterior of the Mitsukoshi building can be photogenic. Look for interesting details in the museum's lobby or entrance areas.
Photography rules vary greatly by exhibition. Some may allow non-flash photography for personal use, while others prohibit all photography. Always check the signage at the entrance of each exhibition or ask museum staff.
Exhibitions featuring visually striking items like intricate samurai armor, colorful traditional dolls, or beautifully crafted tea ceremony ware can be very photogenic, if photography is permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art & History Buffs
🛍️ Shoppers in Ginza
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Edo Period Artistry
Visitors can expect to see a diverse range of artifacts, from delicate ink wash paintings to vibrant lacquerware. The museum's collection emphasizes the aesthetic sensibilities of the time, highlighting the craftsmanship and artistic innovation that defined the Edo period. It's an opportunity to connect with the cultural heritage of Japan through tangible historical objects.
Many visitors find the calligraphy exhibitions particularly captivating, showcasing the beauty and expressiveness of Japanese script. These pieces are not just text but works of art, demonstrating mastery of brushstrokes and composition. The museum's commitment to preserving and displaying these cultural gems makes it a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.
The Art of the Japanese Tea Ceremony
These exhibitions feature items such as tea bowls (chawan), tea caddies (natsume), water jars (mizusashi), and bamboo whisks (chasen). Each piece is often a work of art in itself, crafted with meticulous attention to detail and imbued with cultural significance. The selection of these utensils reflects a profound appreciation for form, texture, and the subtle beauty found in everyday objects.
Understanding the context of the tea ceremony enhances the appreciation of these artifacts. Exhibitions may explore the philosophies of masters like Sen no Rikyū, who shaped the Way of Tea, and highlight how the choice of utensils contributes to the overall atmosphere and experience of a tea gathering. It's a chance to learn about a cornerstone of Japanese culture through its material manifestations.
Samurai Heritage: Swords and Armor
Visitors can admire the intricate hamon (temper line), the elegant curvature, and the detailed tsuba (handguard) of these legendary blades. Alongside the swords, samurai armor (yoroi) is often exhibited, showcasing the elaborate craftsmanship and protective design that characterized the gear of these warriors. These suits of armor are often adorned with decorative elements, reflecting the status and aesthetic preferences of their owners.
These exhibitions provide a tangible connection to Japan's feudal past, allowing visitors to appreciate the skill of the swordsmiths and armorers. They offer insights into the military traditions, social hierarchy, and the enduring legacy of the samurai in Japanese culture.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit