施設内 雰囲気
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NHK Museum of Broadcasting

4.3
·1k reviews·Minato City, Japan

Explore Japan's broadcasting history from early radio to digital TV. Free admission!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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施設内 雰囲気

NHK Museum of Broadcasting

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Japan's broadcasting history from early radio to digital TV. Free admission!

4.3
(1k reviews)

"Amazing underrated museum about Japanese broadcasting history, but actually about Japanese history."

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TIP

Free Entry! 🎉

Admission is completely free, making it a fantastic value for exploring Japanese media history.

Translate with Google Lens 📱

Most signs are in Japanese, but Google Lens on your phone is a lifesaver for translations.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Early Radio & Broadcast History

Early Radio & Broadcast History

Third Floor

Explore vintage radio sets, microphones, and transmitters charting the dawn of Japanese broadcasting.

Emperor's Surrender Broadcast

Emperor's Surrender Broadcast

Third Floor

See the original record and handwritten notes of the Emperor's 1945 broadcast ending WWII.

Interactive News Desk

Interactive News Desk

Second Floor

Step behind the scenes to try reading the news or presenting the weather like a pro.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission, Big Insights

The NHK Museum of Broadcasting offers a fascinating journey through Japanese media history, and best of all, it's completely free! Plan for 1-2 hours to explore the exhibits, which cover everything from early radio to modern digital broadcasting. While many displays have English captions on small screens, some genre-specific exhibits might require translation tools for full understanding.

Bridging Language Gaps

While the museum is rich with historical artifacts and information, most signage is in Japanese. Travelers recommend using the Google Lens feature on Google Translate to bridge the language barrier, especially for deeper dives into specific genres like music and drama. This tech-savvy approach ensures you won't miss out on the details of Japan's broadcasting evolution.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Still manageable crowd levels
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Trip Report - A museum a day in Tokyo and Osaka

Free Entry! 🎉

Admission is completely free, making it a fantastic value for exploring Japanese media history. Reddit

Translate with Google Lens 📱

Most signs are in Japanese, but Google Lens on your phone is a lifesaver for translations. Reddit

Plan for 1-2 Hours ⏳

Give yourself enough time to explore the extensive exhibits on broadcasting history. Reddit

Quiz for Prizes! 🎁

With a little Japanese, you can participate in museum quizzes for a chance to win gifts. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Entry! 🎉

Admission is completely free, making it a fantastic value for exploring Japanese media history. Reddit

Translate with Google Lens 📱

Most signs are in Japanese, but Google Lens on your phone is a lifesaver for translations. Reddit

Plan for 1-2 Hours ⏳

Give yourself enough time to explore the extensive exhibits on broadcasting history. Reddit

Quiz for Prizes! 🎁

With a little Japanese, you can participate in museum quizzes for a chance to win gifts. Reddit

Focus on the 3rd Floor First ⬆️

Start on the third floor for a chronological journey through broadcasting's past. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the NHK Museum of Broadcasting for its fascinating historical exhibits and, notably, its free admission. While the language barrier is a common point, many find solutions with translation apps. The interactive elements and the chance to see significant historical broadcasts make it a worthwhile visit for those interested in media and Japanese history.

"A fascinating museum that is particular relevant in 2025, which marked NHK’s centenary. Start on the third floor to see a history of broadcasting, including numerous early radio sets, microphones and transmitters. Captions are in English on little screens embedded in the displays of each section. The timeline moves to TV, video and satellite broadcasting, and on the second floor are genre-focused exhibits, such as music and drama (captions in Japanese but Google Lens will help). And it’s free!"

Kevin Young

"Amazing underrated museum about Japanese broadcasting history, but actually about Japanese history. With minor Japanese language knowledges you can ask for some museum quiz and get some nice presents.
The entry btw is free!"

Solo Kate

"Not too big museum about the history of TV in Japan. Not too much English but interesting. We enjoyed the practical exhibits where you could have a go reading the news and presenting the weather."

C_C

What People Like

Free admission
Fascinating history
Interactive exhibits

What People Dislike

Mostly Japanese signage

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The NHK Museum of Broadcasting is easily accessible via public transport. It's a short walk from NHK Front Station on the NHK Line, or a slightly longer walk from Shibuya Station, which is a major hub served by multiple JR and private railway lines. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with exploring the vibrant Shibuya district. Reddit

While there isn't dedicated visitor parking directly at the museum, several public parking garages are available in the surrounding Shibuya area. These can be a bit pricey, so using Tokyo's efficient public transportation system is generally recommended for ease and cost-effectiveness. Reddit

The Japan Rail Pass is valid on JR lines, which can take you to Shibuya Station. From Shibuya, you can either walk to the museum or transfer to a local line. Check the specific JR lines available from your starting point to Shibuya. Reddit

The museum is within walking distance of Shibuya Station, which is served by the Ginza Line, Hanzomon Line, Fukutoshin Line, Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line, and Keio Inokashira Line. This makes it very convenient to reach from various parts of Tokyo. Reddit

Yes, the NHK Museum of Broadcasting is generally accessible for wheelchairs. Elevators are available to access different floors, and pathways are designed to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. It's always a good idea to confirm specific accessibility details with the museum if you have particular requirements. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The most fantastic aspect of the NHK Museum of Broadcasting is that admission is completely free! You can explore all the exhibits without purchasing a ticket, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for travelers. Reddit

No, advance booking is not required for the NHK Museum of Broadcasting as entry is free. You can typically walk in and explore the exhibits at your own pace during opening hours. Reddit

The museum's opening hours are generally from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last admission usually around 5:30 PM. However, it's always advisable to check the official NHK Museum of Broadcasting website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary due to holidays or special events. Reddit

The museum is typically closed on Mondays and during the New Year holidays. It's recommended to verify the exact closing days on their official website before your visit to avoid any disappointment. Reddit

The NHK Museum of Broadcasting occasionally hosts special exhibitions that delve deeper into specific aspects of broadcasting history or technology. Information about these events is usually available on their official website. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum showcases the history of Japanese broadcasting from the 1920s to the digital age. You'll find early radio equipment, vintage televisions, exhibits on famous dramas and music programs, and interactive displays where you can try reading the news. Reddit

Yes, the NHK Museum can be engaging for children, especially the interactive exhibits like the news desk. The visual displays of old technology might also spark their curiosity about how things used to work. Reddit

Most visitors spend between 60 to 120 minutes exploring the museum. This allows ample time to view the exhibits on the third floor and explore the genre-specific displays on the second floor. Reddit

While official guided tours might not be regularly scheduled in English, the museum's layout is intuitive. The English captions on small screens embedded in displays provide good context. For deeper insights, consider using translation apps. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use in most areas of the NHK Museum of Broadcasting, but it's always best to look for specific signage indicating any restrictions, especially in areas with delicate artifacts or special exhibitions. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the impressive collection of vintage radio and television sets, especially the early models. The interactive news desk offers a fun chance for a unique photo. Don't miss the historical significance of the Emperor's surrender broadcast display. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of any 'no photography' signs, particularly around sensitive exhibits or if flash photography could damage artifacts. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Given the indoor setting and potentially dim lighting in some areas, a camera with good low-light performance or a lens with a wide aperture can be beneficial. A small tripod might be useful if allowed, but check regulations first. Reddit

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's best to check with museum staff or look for signage. If tripods are restricted, a monopod or simply stabilizing your camera against a surface might be alternatives. Reddit

The sheer volume and variety of historical broadcasting equipment, from massive early transmitters to sleek mid-century televisions, are visually striking. The interactive news desk also provides a dynamic and engaging subject for photos. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The NHK Museum of Broadcasting can be a surprisingly engaging spot for families. The interactive exhibits, particularly the chance to try reading the news or presenting the weather, are a big hit with children. These hands-on activities make learning about media history fun and memorable. The visual displays of old radios and televisions also tend to capture kids' imaginations, offering a glimpse into a world very different from their own. Reddit

While most signage is in Japanese, the visual nature of the exhibits and the interactive elements can still be understood and enjoyed by younger visitors. Parents can use translation apps like Google Lens to help explain specific displays if their children show particular interest. The museum's free admission also makes it an excellent, budget-friendly option for a family outing in Tokyo. Plan for about 1-2 hours to keep it engaging without overwhelming younger attention spans. Reddit

💡 Tech Enthusiasts & History Buffs

For anyone fascinated by the evolution of technology and media, the NHK Museum of Broadcasting is a treasure trove. You'll find an extensive collection of vintage broadcasting equipment, from early microphones and transmitters to iconic television sets from different eras. The museum meticulously documents the technological advancements that shaped modern communication. Reddit

History buffs will appreciate the historical context provided, especially the exhibits detailing pivotal moments in Japanese history as reported through NHK. The display of the Emperor's surrender broadcast is a particularly significant artifact. While the language barrier exists, the sheer volume of physical artifacts and the chronological presentation offer a rich learning experience, enhanced by translation tools. The free entry makes it an accessible deep dive into a crucial aspect of 20th-century Japan. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Japanese Broadcasting History

The NHK Museum of Broadcasting offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of media in Japan, starting from the nascent days of radio in the 1920s. The museum's third floor is dedicated to this historical progression, featuring an impressive array of early radio sets, microphones, and transmitters. These artifacts provide a tangible connection to the pioneers of Japanese broadcasting and the technological leaps they made. Visitors can trace the development from simple audio transmissions to the complex systems that paved the way for television and beyond. Reddit

As you move through the exhibits, the timeline progresses to the advent of television, video, and satellite broadcasting. The museum meticulously documents NHK's role as Japan's national broadcaster, highlighting key moments and innovations. A particularly poignant exhibit is the display of the Emperor's radio broadcast that announced Japan's surrender in 1945, complete with the handwritten notes for the speech. This section offers a profound glimpse into a pivotal moment in world history, viewed through the lens of Japanese media. Reddit

Beyond the technological and historical milestones, the museum also explores the cultural impact of broadcasting. The second floor features genre-focused exhibits, delving into areas like music and drama. While these sections might have less English text, tools like Google Lens can help unlock their stories. The interactive elements, such as the opportunity to try reading the news or presenting the weather, add a fun, hands-on dimension to the learning experience, making the history of Japanese broadcasting come alive for visitors of all ages. Reddit

Navigating the NHK Museum: Tips for International Visitors

One of the most frequently mentioned aspects by visitors is the language barrier. While the museum is rich in content, most of the signage and exhibit descriptions are in Japanese. However, this doesn't have to be a deterrent. Many reviewers highly recommend using the Google Lens feature within the Google Translate app on your smartphone. This allows you to point your camera at Japanese text, and it will provide an on-screen translation, making the exhibits much more accessible. Reddit

Despite the language challenge, the museum is considered a must-see for those interested in history or technology. The free admission is a significant draw, and the depth of information available, even with translation assistance, is substantial. Visitors often suggest allocating 60 to 120 minutes for a thorough exploration, allowing time to appreciate the historical artifacts and understand the context of Japanese broadcasting. Reddit

For those looking to engage further, some visitors mention participating in museum quizzes where, with a little Japanese knowledge, you can win small prizes. This adds an element of fun and interaction. Ultimately, the NHK Museum of Broadcasting offers a unique and valuable perspective on Japan's modern history through its media, and with a few smart tools, international visitors can fully enjoy and learn from its extensive collection. Reddit

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