Toguri Museum of Art
A serene Shibuya sanctuary showcasing centuries of exquisite Japanese, Chinese, and Korean porcelain art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Toguri Museum of Art
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Shibuya sanctuary showcasing centuries of exquisite Japanese, Chinese, and Korean porcelain art.
"A peaceful, less touristy gem for appreciating intricate porcelain art."
🤫 Photography Restrictions
Be mindful that photography is often not allowed inside the museum. Check for any exceptions.
🧐 Deep Dive into Porcelain
Ideal for art lovers interested in Japanese porcelain history and export trade.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Imari-yaki Porcelain
Explore exquisite 17th-century Japanese porcelain, famed for its export history and intricate designs.
Garden View Lobby
A surprisingly picturesque seating area offering a tranquil view of the garden, perfect for reflection.
European-Style House
Adjacent to the museum, discover a charming 18th/19th-century European-style house, now a restaurant.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Understand the Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Photography Restrictions
Be mindful that photography is often not allowed inside the museum. Check for any exceptions.
🧐 Deep Dive into Porcelain
Ideal for art lovers interested in Japanese porcelain history and export trade.
🚶♀️ Easy Shibuya Access
Conveniently located in Shibuya, it's an easy walk from the station for a quiet cultural break.
🗣️ English Explanations
Exhibitions offer rich explanations, with English signs available for better understanding.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Photography Restrictions
Be mindful that photography is often not allowed inside the museum. Check for any exceptions.
🧐 Deep Dive into Porcelain
Ideal for art lovers interested in Japanese porcelain history and export trade.
🚶♀️ Easy Shibuya Access
Conveniently located in Shibuya, it's an easy walk from the station for a quiet cultural break.
🗣️ English Explanations
Exhibitions offer rich explanations, with English signs available for better understanding.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Toguri Museum of Art for its peaceful atmosphere and specialized collection of Japanese porcelain, offering a serene escape in Shibuya. While some find the admission price high for the duration, others highly recommend it for its unique focus on Imari-yaki and the tranquil garden view.
"The Toguri Museum is tucked in the backside of Shibuya and it's easy to walk to, yet very peaceful. The museum has roughly 30 minutes of beautiful ceramics of varying styles. most of which photography is not allowed. The labels accompanying each piece are in Japanese only. The lobby seating area is surprisingly picturesque with a view of the garden outside. I think it's pretty expensive for the amount of time you can spend there."
Dom Ku
"We, lady’s of CWAJ, had a great, private tour today. We started with a lecture about humans pictures in porcelain, before we had an interesting tour around the small but great museum. I really recommend you to go there if you’re interested in porcelain!"
Bicy ビッキー Fischer
"Here is the place you can enjoy and appreciate Japanese porcelain in old time called ‘Imari-yaki’ (伊万里焼). This museum was established in 1987 having speciality regarding porcelain which were widely exported and expanded with limited trading between Netherlands. Unfortunately, it is impossible to take photo, sometimes with exemption, however, the exhibition has rich explanation enough to acknowledge and understand about ‘Imari-yaki’ Personally, strongly recommended to those who are not only interested in chinawear but also art, etc. to learn new things."
Khun “Yai” choopwat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Toguri Museum of Art is conveniently located in the backside of Shibuya, making it an easy walk from Shibuya Station. Follow signs towards the less crowded areas of Shibuya to find this hidden gem.
Yes, it is easily accessible by public transport as it's a short walk from Shibuya Station, a major transportation hub in Tokyo.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is considered a bit high by some visitors for the duration of the visit, but it offers a unique experience for porcelain enthusiasts.
Information on discounts is not widely available, but group tours might offer specific arrangements. It's best to check their official website or inquire directly.
Opening hours can vary, and it's recommended to check the museum's official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography is not allowed inside the museum to protect the delicate ceramic exhibits. There might be occasional exceptions, so always check the signage or ask staff.
While most exhibition areas prohibit photography, the lobby seating area with the garden view might be an exception, but it's best to confirm on-site.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the museum itself doesn't have a cafe, there is a European-style house adjacent to it that is currently operating as a restaurant.
The museum is located in Shibuya, offering a vast array of dining options from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. The adjacent European-style house is also a dining option.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that the museum can be explored in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect short visit for those interested in ceramics.
The museum specializes in Japanese porcelain, particularly 'Imari-yaki,' with exhibits spanning centuries and showcasing pieces that were widely exported.
Yes, while some labels may be in Japanese, English explanations are available to help visitors understand and appreciate the ceramic art.
Absolutely. It's described as a peaceful and less touristy spot, ideal for those seeking a serene cultural experience away from the usual crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, for families interested in art history or looking for a quiet, educational outing, it can be a rewarding visit. The adjacent European-style house, now a restaurant, could offer a more engaging experience for younger family members. Consider it for a brief, enriching cultural stop rather than a primary family activity.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
For those who enjoy detailed craftsmanship and historical context, this museum provides an unparalleled experience. The informative labels, including English translations, enhance the appreciation of each piece's unique story and artistic value. It’s a chance to connect with the legacy of Japanese ceramic artistry on a profound level.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the opportunity to study the intricate details of each piece without the rush often found in larger institutions. The garden view from the lobby is an added bonus for a moment of quiet contemplation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Imari-yaki
Visitors can expect to see a curated selection that tells the story of this significant ceramic tradition. The detailed explanations, available in English, provide context on the craftsmanship, historical significance, and artistic merit of each piece. It's an opportunity to delve into a specific niche of Japanese art that has had a global impact.
Appreciating the nuances of each glaze and design is key to enjoying the museum. The limited photography policy encourages visitors to engage more deeply with the art, fostering a more mindful and contemplative experience. It's a chance to step back in time and connect with centuries of artistic heritage.
A Peaceful Retreat in Shibuya
The museum's intimate size contributes to its peaceful ambiance. With exhibits that can be appreciated in about 30 minutes, it allows for a focused and unhurried viewing experience. The lobby seating area, with its picturesque garden view, further enhances this sense of tranquility, providing a perfect spot to pause and absorb the surroundings.
For travelers seeking an experience that is less touristy and more serene, the Toguri Museum of Art is a highly recommended destination. It provides a unique cultural interlude that is both enriching and restorative.
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