Experts' Choice Award Kyoto National Museum
What the experts agree on
This 1890s neo-classical masterpiece houses treasures rescued from Kyoto's temples and imperial court—sculpture, paintings, ceramics, and exquisite lacquerware. The architecture itself is worth the visit.
“This museum displays sculpture, Japanese paintings, ceramics, clothing and kimono, lacquerware, metalworks, and other treasures, most of which were once in Kyoto's many temples.”
– Frommer's
Frommer's "Feature exhibits highlighting magnificent art objects and treasures, many of which once belonged to Kyoto's many temples and the imperial court." Full review
Michelin Guide 3 Stars
"Opened in 1897, the Imperial Museum was created to preserve Kyoto's cultural treasures, threatened by the Emperor's own desire to modernize the city." Full review
Time Out "The National Museum is worth a visit just to see the building. Constructed in the 1890s, this neo-classical gem by Tokuma Katayama has been designated an Important Cultural Property." Full review
Afar Magazine "The original manuscript of The Tale of Genji is housed next door in the Kyoto National Museum's archive"
Rough Guide "Art enthusiasts should visit the Kyoto National Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Janese art"
Lonely Planet "Since opening the doors to its first exhibition in 1897, the Kyoto National Museum has grown to become one of the most prestigious museums in Jan. The permanent collection includes a wide..."
National Geographic "My city's best museum is the Kyoto National Museum because it houses one of the best collections of Janese art in the world"
Lonely Planet "On days with heavy downpours, cultural options for indoor activities include the Kyoto National Museum"
When to plan a trip to Kyoto
January 19, 2022
