Kyoto National Museum in Kyoto

This post can contain affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links.

Facts & Figures

The Kyoto National Museum belongs to the top 4 national museums in Japan. The other 3 are Nara National Museum, Tokyo National Museum and Kyushu National Museum. The museum, one of the oldest in Japan, houses over 12000 art objects with the focus on pre-modern Japanese and Asian works. Experience the Ultimate Japanese Hospitality at a Kyoto Ryokan.
 Find Your Perfect Ryokan Now > The red brick hall, also called Meiji Kotokan, is an great example of French Renaissance architecture style. Be aware of the amazing special exhibitions held during the year.

• Kyoto National Museum:
• Opening Hours - 9:30 am to 5:00 pm (Tuesday till Thursday, last entry 4:30 pm)
• Opening Hours - 9:30 am to 8:00 pm (Friday, last entry 7:30 pm)
• Admission Fee - 500 yen (Adults), 250 yen (Elementary and Junior High School Students)

My tips for local activities

How about exploring the best parts of my favourite city Kyoto with a local guide? The personalized tour by our partner GetYourGuide can take between 2 - 8 hours. For more details check out this page >

History

Kyoto National Museum was designed by the architect Katayama Tokumain (1854-1917). He was influenced by the Western architecture style. The museum opened its doors for the public in 1897. In 1969 the Meiji Kotokan (main exhibition hall) was designated an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government. Architect Morita Keiichi was responsible for the design of the Collections Hall (New Exhibition Hall), which opened in 1966. In 2014 a new wing, called Heisei Chishinkan, was completed by architect Taniguchi Yoshio.

Sightseeing spots

Top:

Meiji Kotokan (Main Exhibition Hall) - Kyoto was the capital of Japan for more than 1000 years. Many items (paintings, sculptures, costumes, ceramics, calligraphy etc.) on display are related to this time period.

Heisei Chishinkan - The new contemporary wing is housing changing thematic exhibitions.

Festival & Events in Kyoto (dates can change without notice)

April

Miyako Odori (1st - 31th)
The traditional annual spring dance of the Kyoto district Gion Kobu performed by Geiko and Maiko is a must-see on your Kyoto visit. Don't miss the most popular dances the Miyako Odori "Cherry Blossom Dances" or "Dances of the Old Capital" at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater (located close to Gion Corner).

May

Aoi Matsuri (15th)
The highlight of this festival is a large parade from Imperial Palace through Shimogamo Shrine to the Kamigamo Shrine. More than 500 people wearing aristocratic costumes from the Heian Period (794 - 1185). The Aoi Matsuri belongs with the Gion Matsuri and Jidai Matsuri to the three most famous festivals in Kyoto.

July

Gion Matsuri (whole month)
The month July is full of different events like the Yoiyama - Kyoto's Magical Night (locals in kimonos look at the giant Gion floats the day before the parade) or the famous Yamaboko Junko (float procession on the 17th of July).

October

Jidai Matsuri ("Festival of Ages") (22nd)
People celebrate with a large parade between Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine the anniversary of the foundation of Kyoto. App. 2000 participants wearing historical costumes from different time periods. Enjoy this great festival which last around 2 hours.