Tokugawa Art Museum - Image 1
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Tokugawa Art Museum

4.2
·4k reviews·Nagoya, Japan

Discover Edo period treasures, from samurai swords to the 'Tale of Genji,' at this Nagoya museum, complemented by a serene garden.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
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Tokugawa Art Museum - Image 1

Tokugawa Art Museum

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Edo period treasures, from samurai swords to the 'Tale of Genji,' at this Nagoya museum, complemented by a serene garden.

4.2
(4k reviews)

"A very fascinating and interesting museum. We loved reading about the history and seeing so much on display."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Combo Ticket Savings

Save yen by purchasing a combo ticket for the museum and garden. :ticket:

🚌 Tourist Bus Discount

Show your city tourist bus day pass for a discount on admission. :bus:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Samurai Swords

Samurai Swords

Exhibition Halls

Marvel at authentic katana and other samurai swords, including the famed Mikazuki Munechika.

The Tale of Genji Emaki

The Tale of Genji Emaki

Exhibition Halls

See the National Treasure scroll depicting the classic Japanese novel, a significant influence on art.

Tokugawa Garden

Tokugawa Garden

Adjacent to Museum

Stroll through a serene Japanese garden with a large pond and impressive trees, offering a peaceful escape.

Edo Period Art & Artifacts

Edo Period Art & Artifacts

Exhibition Halls

Explore a rich collection of art and cultural items from the Owari Tokugawa Clan's era.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit: Tickets & Hours

The Tokugawa Art Museum is closed on Wednesdays. Consider purchasing a combo ticket with the adjacent Tokugawa Garden to save money. Check for special exhibits, like the famous Mikazuki Munechika sword, which draw crowds.

Getting There & Around

While a bit outside the city center, the museum is accessible via the Nagoya City Tourist Bus day pass, offering a discount. Google Maps might not always reflect closures, so double-check hours before you go.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Crowd
Low
When
During Special Exhibits
Why
See rare treasures like Mikazuki Munechika
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoon
Why
Enjoy the garden before closing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Nagoya City, Naka Ward, Sakae 3-35-43 Ça coûte 1200 yen (7€50) #japon #Vlog #katana
@otoontv
22.9K likes • 145.1K views

🎯 Combo Ticket Savings

Save yen by purchasing a combo ticket for the museum and garden. :ticket:

🚌 Tourist Bus Discount

Show your city tourist bus day pass for a discount on admission. :bus:

Ever wanted to see real samurai swords up close? 🗡️ Visit Nagoya Sword World (Touken World Museum) and step into the world of Japanese sword-making. You’ll find beautifully crafted katana, learn how they were forged by master swordsmiths, and even try holding a replica to feel the weight of history in your hands. It’s perfect for history lovers, anime fans, or anyone who wants to experience a piec...
@getjrpass.com
15.2K likes • 161.8K views
The Tokugawa Art Museum houses the magnificent treasures of the Owari Tokugawa Clan, rulers of Nagoya and Owari Domain during the Edo period (1603-1868). #nagoyaisnotboring #owarihan #samuraiandtimber #aichi #nagoya #japan
japan_australia
17 likes • 363 views

🚫 No Video Recording

Photography is allowed without flash, but video recording is prohibited. :camerawithflash:

📅 Check Wednesday Closures

The museum is closed on Wednesdays, so plan accordingly. :calendar:

Tokugawa Art Museum + Garden✨ #japan #tokugawaartmuseum #nagoyajapan🇯🇵
princesssomchai
32 likes • 427 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Combo Ticket Savings

Save yen by purchasing a combo ticket for the museum and garden. :ticket:

🚌 Tourist Bus Discount

Show your city tourist bus day pass for a discount on admission. :bus:

🚫 No Video Recording

Photography is allowed without flash, but video recording is prohibited. :camerawithflash:

📅 Check Wednesday Closures

The museum is closed on Wednesdays, so plan accordingly. :calendar:

🗣️ English Translations

Each exhibit has brief English translations for better understanding. :earth_americas:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Tokugawa Art Museum fascinating, praising its well-organized exhibits and the historical depth of its collection, especially the samurai swords and 'The Tale of Genji Emaki.' The adjacent garden is also a highlight, offering a peaceful retreat. Some note the lack of audio guides and the museum's location outside the immediate city center.

"A very fascinating and interesting museum. We loved reading about the history and seeing so much on display for viewing, very impressive. The garden was just as enjoyable with great views to behold. We're so glad we decided to visit. Highly recommend."

Carol Del Signore

"Well organized museum and garden. Get the combo ticket to save a little. Also you get a discount if you bought the city tourist bus day pass. Day bus pass is super convenient. 500 yen for all day and goes to all the major attractions. Museum is kind of far from the city center. And Closed on Wednesdays. Found out the hard way. Google didn’t show it as closed."

Aki Tsu

"They don’t provide audio tour, brief English translation is provided with every exhibit. Quite a lot of replica is on display but isn’t that’s most of the other Museums do nowadays? Touring last about 1.5 hours"

Adrian C

What People Like

Impressive historical artifacts
Fascinating samurai swords
Beautiful adjacent garden

What People Dislike

No audio tours
Slightly out of city center

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is accessible via the Nagoya City Tourist Bus day pass, which offers a discount on admission. It's located a bit outside the city center, so the bus is a convenient option. TikTokInstagram

While the address is in Japanese on some maps, using a reliable navigation app and the provided address should help. Some visitors found it a bit hidden. TikTok

Yes, the Nagoya City Tourist Bus is a recommended way to reach the museum and offers a discount. Reddit

Information on parking is limited, but public transport is generally recommended for visitors. Instagram

The museum is a bit of a distance from the city center, making public transport like the tourist bus a good choice. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The museum is closed on Wednesdays. It's advisable to check the official website for exact opening and closing times, as Google Maps may not always be up-to-date. Reddit

Entry fees are reasonable, especially if you purchase a combo ticket with the Tokugawa Garden. The approximate cost for a combo ticket is around 1,500 yen. Reddit

While online booking options are not explicitly mentioned, purchasing tickets at the venue or as part of a combo is common. Instagram

Yes, you can get a discount if you have the Nagoya City Tourist Bus day pass, and a combo ticket with the garden also offers savings. Reddit

The museum offers a glimpse into Japanese history and culture, which can be educational for older children. However, there are no specific child-focused exhibits mentioned. TikTok

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Don't miss the impressive collection of samurai swords, including the famous Mikazuki Munechika, and the National Treasure 'The Tale of Genji Emaki.' TikTokInstagramReddit

Photography is permitted for personal use with smartphones, but flash photography is strictly prohibited. Video recording is not allowed. Reddit

Audio tours are not provided, but brief English translations are available for each exhibit, making it accessible for international visitors. Reddit

A typical visit to the museum takes about 1.5 hours, allowing time to appreciate the exhibits and potentially the garden. Reddit

The adjacent Tokugawa Garden is a beautiful Japanese garden featuring a large pond and lush greenery, offering a tranquil experience. Instagram+2

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While specific dining facilities within the museum are not detailed, the surrounding area of Nagoya offers numerous culinary choices. Instagram

It's generally recommended to consume food and drinks outside of exhibition areas to preserve the artifacts. Instagram

Nagoya is known for its unique cuisine, including Miso Katsu (pork cutlet with miso sauce) and Hitsumabushi (grilled eel over rice). Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Tokugawa Garden offers picturesque scenery with its pond and traditional landscaping. Inside, focus on the intricate details of the artifacts (without flash). Instagram

Yes, you can take photos of the samurai swords with your smartphone, as long as you do not use flash. Reddit

Photography is allowed without flash for personal use. Video recording is prohibited. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Tokugawa Art Museum focuses on historical artifacts, it can still be an educational experience for families. Older children might appreciate the samurai swords and the stories behind them. TikTok The adjacent Tokugawa Garden offers a pleasant outdoor space for kids to explore and enjoy nature. Consider the combo ticket for a more comprehensive visit. Instagram+1

🏛️ History Buffs

For those passionate about Japanese history, the Tokugawa Art Museum is a must-visit. The extensive collection of artifacts from the Owari Tokugawa Clan provides deep insights into the Edo period. Instagram The National Treasure 'The Tale of Genji Emaki' and the samurai sword collection are particularly noteworthy. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Solo travelers will find the museum well-organized with helpful English translations for exhibits. Reddit The peaceful Tokugawa Garden offers a perfect spot for quiet contemplation. The museum's manageable size allows for a thorough exploration without feeling overwhelming. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of the Owari Tokugawa Clan

The Tokugawa Art Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts from the Owari Tokugawa Clan, who were powerful feudal lords during Japan's Edo period (1603-1868). This clan was one of the three branches of the Tokugawa family, established by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The museum's collection offers a deep dive into the clan's history, culture, and daily life, showcasing their influence on Japanese art and society. Instagram+1

Visitors can expect to see a wide array of items, including exquisite samurai swords, intricate kimonos, calligraphy, ceramics, and paintings. These pieces not only highlight the clan's wealth and status but also provide invaluable insights into the aesthetics and craftsmanship of the era. The museum's dedication to preserving and displaying these cultural assets makes it a vital stop for anyone interested in Japanese history. Instagram+1

Exploring the Tokugawa Garden

Adjacent to the art museum lies the serene Tokugawa Garden, a beautifully maintained Japanese landscape garden. This tranquil oasis provides a perfect counterpoint to the museum's historical exhibits, offering a space for reflection and appreciation of nature's artistry. The garden features a large pond, meticulously placed rocks, and a variety of trees that change with the seasons, creating a picturesque setting throughout the year. Instagram+2

Visitors often praise the garden for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views. It's an ideal spot to unwind after exploring the museum's collections. The combination of the art museum and the garden offers a holistic cultural experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in both the artistic heritage and the natural beauty of the region. Instagram+1

Samurai Swords: A Glimpse into Warrior Culture

A major draw for many visitors to the Tokugawa Art Museum is its impressive collection of samurai swords, or katana. These weapons are not just tools of warfare but also masterpieces of craftsmanship, reflecting centuries of tradition and skill. The museum houses authentic swords from various periods, including the Kamakura period, showcasing the evolution of sword-making techniques. TikTokInstagram

Among the most celebrated pieces is the Mikazuki Munechika, a sword of immense historical and artistic significance. Seeing these blades up close offers a tangible connection to Japan's samurai past and the warrior ethos that shaped its history. The detailed explanations accompanying each exhibit help visitors understand the cultural importance and the artistry involved in creating these iconic weapons. TikTokReddit

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