International Manga Museum Kyoto
Explore a world of manga in a historic school building, featuring over 300,000 volumes and unique portrait sessions.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reading space.
International Manga Museum Kyoto
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more reading space.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a world of manga in a historic school building, featuring over 300,000 volumes and unique portrait sessions.
"An absolute gem in the heart of Kyoto! The museum houses an impressive and diverse collection of manga."
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Skip the line and save time by purchasing your admission tickets in advance.
⏰ Arrive Early for Portraits
Manga portrait slots are first-come, first-served. Be there before opening to secure your spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Wall of Manga
Throughout the museum
Thousands of manga volumes from around the world, spanning decades of history. A true visual feast for any fan.

Manga Portrait Sessions
Portrait Corner
Get a personalized manga-style portrait drawn by a talented artist. A unique and memorable souvenir.

Historic School Building
Entire museum
Explore the former Tatsuike Primary School, with classrooms transformed into cozy reading nooks.

Exhibits on Manga History
Various galleries
Discover the evolution of manga, from early 20th-century works to modern masterpieces.
Planning Your Visit
Book Manga Portraits Early
Allocate Your Time Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Skip the line and save time by purchasing your admission tickets in advance.
⏰ Arrive Early for Portraits
Manga portrait slots are first-come, first-served. Be there before opening to secure your spot.
📚 Read Anywhere!
Grab a manga from the shelves and find a cozy spot to read. It's like a library!
📸 Capture the History
The building itself is a piece of history. Don't forget to snap photos of the old classrooms.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Skip the line and save time by purchasing your admission tickets in advance.
⏰ Arrive Early for Portraits
Manga portrait slots are first-come, first-served. Be there before opening to secure your spot.
📚 Read Anywhere!
Grab a manga from the shelves and find a cozy spot to read. It's like a library!
📸 Capture the History
The building itself is a piece of history. Don't forget to snap photos of the old classrooms.
☕ Visit the Cafe
Enjoy a treat at the cafe adorned with drawings by visiting artists.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Kyoto International Manga Museum for its vast collection and unique atmosphere within a historic school building. Many enjoy the ability to read manga on-site and the opportunity to get personalized portraits. Some note that workshops could be expanded, but overall, it's a highly recommended experience for both fans and curious newcomers.
"I am not an expert of manga but I was curious if this museum. It was a great experience. It contains mangas from early 1900s mostly from Japan (but also a small international collection). People can consult all books (the museum is well equipped with chairs and spot where to sit). There are also entertainments for kids 3 times a day.
About 6 euros/dollars per person. The price is worth the visit. Plan easily 2-3 hours even if you are not an expert, more if you are!"
Alessandra Lepore
"Not a big fan of Mangas but we went there because of my son. He loved it! Located at a historic primary school, the Museum is quite big and we had wonderful time there!"
Mark Tuong Ngauv
"Kyoto International Manga Museum – A Paradise for Manga Lovers!
An absolute gem in the heart of Kyoto! The museum houses an impressive and diverse collection of manga, including rare series dating all the way back to the 1960s. It’s not just about reading — it's also a fascinating journey through the history and evolution of manga, with insightful exhibits on how manga are created, from concept to final art. A unique and engaging experience for fans and curious visitors alike.
One small note: the live manga drawing workshops are a great idea, but with only two instructors available, it feels a bit limited. With such interest, having more manga teachers would definitely elevate the experience even further.
Still, a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese culture, art, or storytelling."
Manlio Tassieri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is easily accessible by public transport. Take the subway to Karasuma Oike Station, which is just a short walk away. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with other Kyoto attractions.
While there isn't dedicated parking for the museum, there are several public parking garages in the vicinity. It's generally recommended to use public transportation to avoid parking hassles.
The Japan Rail Pass covers JR lines. The Kyoto Manga Museum is best reached via the Kyoto Municipal Subway. You'll likely need to purchase separate subway tickets or use an IC card.
Yes, the museum is generally accessible for wheelchairs. Elevators are available to access different floors, and most exhibition areas are navigable.
The Kyoto Municipal Subway is very efficient for getting around. Karasuma Oike Station connects you to various lines, making it easy to reach places like Kyoto Station or Gion.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically around 6 euros/dollars per person. It's considered a good value for the experience and the extensive collection.
Yes, purchasing admission tickets online is highly recommended to save time and avoid potential queues, especially during peak seasons.
The museum usually opens at 10 AM and closes around 5 PM or 6 PM, with the last admission typically an hour before closing. It's always best to check their official website for the most current hours.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, check the official website for any special offers or group rates. Sometimes, local passes might offer benefits.
Generally, you don't need to book a specific time slot for general admission. However, for popular activities like the manga portraits, arriving early is crucial.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore vast collections of manga, read in designated areas, view historical exhibits, and even get a personalized manga portrait.
Absolutely! The museum functions like a library. You can pick up manga from the shelves and read them in the comfortable seating areas provided throughout the museum.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours, but manga enthusiasts could easily spend longer. It depends on how much you want to read and explore the exhibits.
Yes, the museum occasionally hosts paid and free workshops, including live manga drawing sessions. Check their schedule for details.
The 'Wall of Manga' spans multiple floors. Take your time to wander through the different sections, starting from the main galleries, to fully appreciate the sheer volume and variety.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe within the museum that is decorated with drawings by visiting artists. It's a nice spot to relax and enjoy a snack or drink.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition areas to preserve the collection. The cafe is the designated area for refreshments.
The museum is located in a central area of Kyoto, so you'll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries nearby offering a wide range of Japanese and international cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most areas for personal use, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited to protect the exhibits. Always look for signage.
The 'Wall of Manga,' the historic school classrooms, and the exterior of the building are all highly photogenic. The manga portrait artists at work can also make for interesting shots.
While you can photograph the general atmosphere and exhibits, it's best to avoid photographing specific pages of manga you are reading to respect copyright and the reading experience of others.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for children's entertainment or activities that might be scheduled, as the museum sometimes offers special programs. The manga portrait sessions can also be a memorable experience for kids, creating a unique souvenir of their trip.
📚 Manga Enthusiasts
Take your time exploring the 'Wall of Manga', and don't miss the exhibits on manga history and creation. The ability to read manga on-site in a comfortable setting is a huge draw, allowing you to discover new series or revisit old favorites.
📸 Souvenir Hunters
Beyond portraits, the museum itself is a visual treat. The historic building and the endless shelves of manga offer fantastic photo opportunities. Consider purchasing a manga volume from the museum shop as a tangible reminder of your experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique History of the Building
Walking through the museum, you'll notice how the original architectural elements have been maintained, offering a glimpse into what school life was like in Japan. It’s a fascinating juxtaposition of educational history and contemporary pop culture, making the visit more than just an exhibition – it’s an immersive journey through time.
This historical context adds a special layer to the experience, appealing not only to manga fans but also to those interested in architecture and local history. It’s a testament to how spaces can be repurposed to celebrate and preserve cultural heritage in innovative ways.
Getting Your Own Manga Portrait
To secure a spot for a portrait session, arrive early, ideally before the museum opens. The portrait drawing is on a first-come, first-served basis, and slots are limited. You can register at the Portrait Corner upon arrival. The process involves sitting for the artist, who will then create your custom artwork. You might have the option to add costumes for an additional fee.
While the wait can be part of the experience, the quality and detail of the portraits are consistently praised by visitors. It’s a fantastic way to commemorate your visit and take home a piece of art that’s both personal and representative of Japanese pop culture.
Exploring the Vast Manga Collection
What makes the collection particularly special is its international scope, featuring manga in dozens of languages, alongside an extensive array of Japanese titles. You can find everything from early 20th-century works to contemporary bestsellers. The museum also highlights the history and evolution of manga, with exhibits detailing the creation process, from concept to final artwork.
Visitors are encouraged to grab a manga and read in the designated comfortable seating areas. This interactive approach allows you to immerse yourself in the stories and discover new favorites. It’s a truly unique library experience, offering endless possibilities for exploration and enjoyment.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit