Little World Museum of Man
An open-air museum showcasing global cultures through authentic architecture, costumes, and events. Travel the world without leaving Japan!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming flowers, pleasant weather
Little World Museum of Man
Best Time
Blooming flowers, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An open-air museum showcasing global cultures through authentic architecture, costumes, and events. Travel the world without leaving Japan!
"Experience diverse cultures and architecture from around the globe in this unique open-air museum."
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
The museum spans about 3km, so wear comfy shoes for exploring all the pavilions.
🛂 Get a Passport Book
Kids (and adults!) can buy a passport book for stamps from each country. A fun souvenir!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Global Architecture
Various pavilions
Wander through authentic structures and traditional houses from around the world, feeling like you've traveled continents.
Cultural Immersion
Exhibits and events
Experience diverse cultures through costumes, artifacts, and interactive exhibits. Collect stamps in your passport book for a fun souvenir!
Culinary Adventures
Food stalls and pavilions
Savor international flavors at various food fairs and pavilions, with some reviewers highlighting Peru, Germany, and Italy as favorites.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Journey
Seasonal Delights & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
The museum spans about 3km, so wear comfy shoes for exploring all the pavilions.
🛂 Get a Passport Book
Kids (and adults!) can buy a passport book for stamps from each country. A fun souvenir!
☕ Seek Out Kona Coffee
The small coffee shop often serves amazing Kona coffee, a highlight for many visitors.
📅 Check Event Schedule
Look for special food fairs, late openings, and fireworks shows for a unique experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
The museum spans about 3km, so wear comfy shoes for exploring all the pavilions.
🛂 Get a Passport Book
Kids (and adults!) can buy a passport book for stamps from each country. A fun souvenir!
☕ Seek Out Kona Coffee
The small coffee shop often serves amazing Kona coffee, a highlight for many visitors.
📅 Check Event Schedule
Look for special food fairs, late openings, and fireworks shows for a unique experience.
🚗 Parking Costs
Be aware that parking can be a bit pricey. Consider carpooling if possible.
🐶 Dog Policies
Dogs are allowed, but be mindful of excitable or aggressive dogs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Little World Museum of Man for its unique, immersive cultural experience and diverse global exhibits. Many enjoy the opportunity to 'travel the world' through its architecture and interactive elements like passport stamps. However, some find the admission and parking costs a bit high, and the food options could be more varied. Occasional maintenance issues and the presence of dogs are also noted.
"I have been to Little World many many times over the ten years. Because there's always different food fairs throughout the year it never gets boring to visit.
The walking course is around 3 kilometers to finish and generally takes around 2 to 3 hours to complete, depending on how many pavilions I stop at. My favorite pavilions are generally the Peru, Germany and Italy pavilions as those usually have the best food in my opinion. There are several other pavilions worth visiting as well, however. It's also worth mentioning there's a small coffee shop that sells the best Kona coffee when it's open and is always the highlight of visiting Little World. Generally it's only open on weekends.
If you don't want to walk there are buses available, I think the bus fare is ¥500 but I never use the bus so I'm not 100% sure if that's still what it costs.
In spring Little World is particularly beautiful with all the blooming flowers. Sakura season is especially beautiful there."
Spaceman Spiff
"Nice place that serves as exhibits for various cultures throughout various points in history. It goes through the history of various people like the indigenous Americans, the Micronesians, the Ancient Greek, Africans, Japanese, Chinese, etc. Only gripe is that it's very hot during the summer with not a lot of summer. Also, this is a place in which you can spend a whole day, but there are not many food options in the museum/park itself."
Will Zhang
"I took my 9 year old here. First, it’s huge. There is a lot to see. It’s very unique. A bit of history. Plus, you can introduce your kids to other cultures. And, the kids can buy a passport book for ¥400 and collect stamps. The stamps are really nice. They are ink stamps.
Just a couple of negatives. It’s a little expensive (¥1,000 for parking?!!). ¥2,200 for an adult. They allow dogs, which is fine, but I think they should put a strict rule about the dogs. One dog was very excitable and kept barking and trying to get people. It was rather annoying. And, there was a group of people with huge dogs. I asked if I could pet one, they motioned to the one I could pet As I stepped toward it, their other huge dog leapt at me and barked aggressively. If dogs are not friendly, they should not be allowed in.
The place has a few areas in need of repairs. One set of stairs was crumbling.
We stayed about 5 hours. Overall, it’s worth the trip. Just be aware of the cost, and the numerous dogs."
Apple Start English Center
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Inuyama, Aichi Prefecture. You can reach it by public transport, often involving a train ride to Inuyama Station followed by a bus. Some visitors mention it's within a 2-hour drive from areas like Gifu.
Yes, parking is available, but reviewers note that it can be expensive, with one mentioning ¥1,000 for parking.
Yes, there are buses available within the museum grounds if you prefer not to walk the entire 3km course. The fare was previously around ¥500, but it's best to confirm current pricing.
From Nagoya, you can take a train to Inuyama Station and then a bus. The journey is generally straightforward and allows you to enjoy the scenery.
Little World is located in the Gifu/Aichi region, which has other attractions like Mino, Seki, and Gujo, all within a reasonable driving distance for a day trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary, but one reviewer mentioned ¥2,200 for an adult. It's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing.
While specific discounts aren't detailed in all reviews, children can purchase a passport book for ¥400 to collect stamps. It's recommended to inquire about family or senior rates.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and for special events. Some reviews mention late openings until 8 PM during holidays like Obon. Always check the official website for current hours.
Information on advance ticket purchases isn't widely available in reviews. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival, but checking the official website for online options is a good idea.
While the museum has many outdoor exhibits, some areas might have uneven terrain. The availability of accessible routes and facilities should be confirmed with the museum directly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours to complete the 3-kilometer walking course, but you can easily spend a full day if you engage with all the exhibits and events.
Reviewers often highlight the Peru, Germany, and Italy pavilions for their food and immersive experiences. The traditional Nalukettu house from Kerala is also a unique sight.
Yes, children can enjoy collecting stamps in a passport book, which is a popular activity. The diverse exhibits also offer a great way to introduce them to different cultures.
Photography is generally allowed, and many visitors share their experiences and photos on social media, capturing the unique architecture and cultural displays. 
There are buses available within the museum grounds for those who prefer not to walk the full 3 kilometers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum hosts various food fairs throughout the year, offering international cuisine. Some pavilions, like Peru, Germany, and Italy, are noted for their food. There's also a coffee shop known for its Kona coffee.
While there are food fairs and pavilion offerings, one reviewer mentioned that the food options within the park itself are not extensive, suggesting it might be good to plan accordingly.
Information on bringing outside food isn't explicitly mentioned in reviews. It's best to check the museum's policy or plan to dine at their available food outlets.
Food prices at the fairs and pavilions can vary. While not explicitly stated as expensive, it's typical for attractions to have prices comparable to other tourist spots.
Besides the coffee shop, you can expect standard beverages like water, soft drinks, and potentially local specialties depending on the food fair.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The diverse architecture, cultural costumes, and vibrant exhibits make it a fantastic spot for photographers.
Focus on the unique structures like the Nalukettu house from Kerala,
Drone usage policies are typically strict at cultural sites. It's highly unlikely drones are permitted. Always check the museum's regulations before flying.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography in certain exhibits.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A prime lens can be useful for portraits with cultural costumes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum is large, the option of using internal buses can help manage younger children's energy levels.
🌍 Culture Enthusiasts
The museum's commitment to showcasing diverse heritage, from indigenous peoples to various Asian and European traditions, provides a rich educational opportunity. Don't miss the chance to sample international cuisine during the food fairs, which are often a highlight for visitors seeking authentic flavors.
📸 Photographers
+2Consider visiting during spring for beautiful floral backdrops or during special events when the atmosphere is particularly lively. The variety of subjects ensures you can fill your portfolio with diverse and captivating images, from sweeping architectural shots to intimate cultural portraits.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Global Cultures
to European architectural styles and indigenous American exhibits, the museum provides a rich tapestry of human heritage. The walking course is approximately 3 kilometers, encouraging a leisurely exploration of these diverse environments. Beyond the architecture, the museum immerses visitors in the daily life, art, and traditions of different peoples. You can often find cultural performances, demonstrations, and special exhibitions that further enhance the understanding of each region. A popular interactive element is the passport book, where visitors can collect unique ink stamps from each country's pavilion, making the experience feel like a genuine world tour.
Seasonal events and food fairs are a significant draw, transforming the museum into a vibrant hub of international flavors and festivities. Spring, with its blooming flowers and Sakura season, is particularly picturesque.
Practicalities for Your Visit
Be prepared for potential costs beyond admission. Parking fees can be substantial, and while food is available through various fairs and pavilion offerings, the variety might be limited for some.
To make the most of your visit, especially with children, consider purchasing the passport book for ¥400. Collecting the unique ink stamps from each country is a memorable activity and a great souvenir.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit