Meiji Mura
Step back into Japan's Meiji era at this open-air museum, showcasing over 60 preserved historic buildings with stunning architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, blooming flowers
Meiji Mura
Best Time
Pleasant weather, blooming flowers
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back into Japan's Meiji era at this open-air museum, showcasing over 60 preserved historic buildings with stunning architecture.
"The best architectural museum in Japan, offering an authentic journey through history."
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Meiji Mura is huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the buildings.
Consider a picnic lunch :sandwich:
On-site restaurants can be pricey. Bringing your own food is a great way to save money.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Imperial Hotel Lobby
Area 1
Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpiece, a stunning example of early 20th-century Western architecture in Japan.
Meiji Era Schoolhouse
Area 5
Experience a typical primary school from the Meiji period, offering a glimpse into Japan's educational modernization.
Former Prison
Area 3
Explore the stark, authentic cells and corridors of a Meiji-era prison, a unique historical perspective.
St. Francis Xavier Cathedral
Area 1
A beautiful, preserved cathedral showcasing religious architecture and history from the Meiji period.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Meiji Era
Getting Around Meiji Mura
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Meiji Mura is huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the buildings.
Consider a picnic lunch :sandwich:
On-site restaurants can be pricey. Bringing your own food is a great way to save money.
Check transport schedules :bus:
The steam train only runs on certain days. Plan your visit accordingly!
Combine with Inuyama Castle :castle:
Get a discount ticket if you visit Inuyama Castle first.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Meiji Mura is huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the buildings.
Consider a picnic lunch :sandwich:
On-site restaurants can be pricey. Bringing your own food is a great way to save money.
Check transport schedules :bus:
The steam train only runs on certain days. Plan your visit accordingly!
Combine with Inuyama Castle :castle:
Get a discount ticket if you visit Inuyama Castle first.
Great for photos :camera:
The beautiful architecture and nature make it a photographer's paradise.
Explore the shops :shopping_bags:
Find unique and affordable jewelry and souvenirs inside the village.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Meiji Mura as an exceptional architectural museum, transporting them back in time with its authentic Meiji-era buildings and serene natural setting. While some find on-site dining a bit pricey, the overall experience is highly valued for its historical significance and photographic potential.
"If you love architecture, this museum is a must! I dreamed of visiting it for 18 years, and it didn't disappoint! As many, I went just for the FLW Imperial Hotel Lobby, however my experience here made me interested in Meiji era architecture. The smell of wood and the unpretentious authenticity of buildings in a serene nature setting transport you back in time. I can't wait to go back and explore more!"
Georgi Georgiev
"We came to Meij Mura on a beautiful spring day. It is often considered the best architectural museum in Japan. It features buildings from the Meiji area (1868-1912) organized in 5 areas. We started in Area 5 and walked our way back to Area 1. It is huge and you can definitely spend hours here, but if you’re strapped for time our highlights were: the Imperial Hotel, the prison, St Francis Xavier Cathedral, the Kabuki, the Post Office, and the Renga-dori road area. You can purchase tickets for the bus, steam train, and tram that run through the park, but please note the Steam Train only runs on certain days (you can check the schedule on the website). There are restaurants on site but they are of course a little pricey, so some reviews suggest bringing a picnic. We did not know this, but if you visit Inuyama castle first, you can get a combined discount ticket (not available if you visit Meiji Mura first)."
Sarah Hasselman
"The best architectural museum in Japan. The diversity and maintenance of these history buildings are amazing. This is something that you cannot find in those downtown cities. The value behind it is beyond the ticket price. You may want to reserve at least 4 or 5 hours to really enjoy the place. There's multiple bus rides from Inuyama Station, but please watch out for the last bus on the way back though."
Jason Hung
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Nagoya Station, take the JR Tokaido Line to Inuyama Station (approx. 30 mins). From Inuyama Station, you can take a bus directly to Meiji Mura. Buses are frequent and the stop is clearly marked.
Yes, Meiji Mura offers ample parking facilities for visitors arriving by car. The parking fee is separate from the admission ticket.
Absolutely! The most common route is via train to Inuyama Station, followed by a bus. This is a popular and convenient option for many visitors.
The most recommended way is to take the bus from Inuyama Station. It's a short ride and drops you right at the entrance.
While there aren't direct public transport discounts, purchasing a combined ticket with Inuyama Castle can offer savings if you plan to visit both.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Meiji Mura typically opens at 9:00 AM and closes around 5:00 PM, but hours can vary seasonally. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Admission fees are reasonable, with adult tickets typically costing around ¥1,600. Discounts may be available for students and seniors.
Yes, you can often purchase tickets online in advance, which can save you time upon arrival. Check the official Meiji Mura website for online ticketing options.
Meiji Mura offers admission tickets, and you can also purchase separate tickets for the internal bus, steam train, and tram if you wish to use them.
Yes, a combined ticket is available if you visit Inuyama Castle first, offering a discount. This is a great option for a full day of exploration.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
To truly appreciate Meiji Mura, plan for at least 3-4 hours. Many visitors spend 4-5 hours to explore thoroughly. +1
Highlights include the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Imperial Hotel Lobby, the former prison, St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, and various historic residences and shops.
Yes, children often enjoy the open spaces, the unique buildings, and the chance to ride the historic transport. Some buildings offer interactive elements.
Yes, you can rent traditional Japanese attire like hakama to wear while exploring the village, adding a fun cultural element to your visit.
While not always advertised, small tours might be available for specific buildings to learn about their history. The architecture itself tells a story.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Meiji Mura has several restaurants and cafes offering various dining options, including some that serve unlimited pizza.
Food prices at on-site restaurants are generally a bit higher than average, as is common in tourist attractions.
Yes, bringing a picnic is a popular and cost-effective option. There are many pleasant spots to sit and enjoy your meal amidst the historic surroundings.
You can find a range of Japanese and Western-style dishes. Some cafes offer coffee and snacks, and there are themed restaurants.
Options may be limited, but it's advisable to check with individual restaurants upon arrival or look for simpler dishes like rice or vegetable-based items.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The diverse architecture, serene natural settings, and historical ambiance make it a fantastic location for photography.
The Imperial Hotel Lobby, the old streets, traditional houses, and the various gardens offer stunning photographic opportunities. 
Yes, Meiji Mura is popular for photoshoots, including traditional attire rentals. Some areas might have specific regulations for commercial shoots.
Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always good practice to be respectful of other visitors and any specific signage within buildings.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, creating a more atmospheric setting for your photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The chance to see what schools looked like in the Meiji era can be particularly educational and fun. Consider packing snacks and drinks, or taking advantage of the on-site cafes for a break. The village is generally safe and easy to navigate, making it a stress-free outing for parents. The visual appeal of the architecture and the chance to dress up in traditional attire can make for memorable family photos.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Beyond iconic structures, the museum provides context for Japan's modernization, showcasing the blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics with burgeoning Western influences. Exploring the former prison, cathedrals, and various residences allows for a deep dive into the social and architectural landscape of the time.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best lighting. Renting traditional Japanese clothing can add a unique cultural element to your photoshoots.
The village also offers opportunities for capturing candid moments of visitors enjoying the historical ambiance, making for authentic and engaging content. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvels of Meiji Mura
One of the most celebrated structures is the Imperial Hotel Lobby, designed by the renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Its unique design, incorporating Japanese elements with Wright's signature style, makes it a standout piece. Visitors are often awestruck by its grandeur and historical significance.
Beyond the Imperial Hotel, Meiji Mura features a diverse collection including former government offices, schools, post offices, and even a prison. The careful preservation and arrangement of these buildings in distinct areas allow visitors to experience the architectural evolution and the daily life of the Meiji era. The attention to detail in maintaining the authenticity of these structures is remarkable, transporting visitors back in time.
+1Experiencing History and Culture
Many visitors find the experience deeply moving and educational. The chance to see a Meiji-era schoolhouse or walk through the corridors of a former prison offers a tangible connection to history that textbooks cannot replicate.
The village also hosts occasional performances and events that reflect the Meiji period, offering a glimpse into the culture and entertainment of that era. Even if you don't understand Japanese, the visual spectacle of these performances can be captivating.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
For budget-conscious travelers, bringing a picnic lunch is highly recommended, as on-site dining can be a bit pricey.
Meiji Mura is also a fantastic spot for photography, with its beautiful architecture and natural scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit