Tokugawa Art Museum
4.2
(4.5k)This private art museum showcases over 12,000 items from the hereditary collection of the Owari branch of the Tokugawa clan, who once ruled the Owari Domain. You'll find swords, armor, Noh costumes, lacquer furniture, and ceramics, offering a deep dive into Japanese history and culture. The museum also features a historical reproduction of the Nagoya Castle Ninomaru palace living quarters.
Address
1017 Tokugawachō, Higashi Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 461-0023, Japan
Opening Hours
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Thu)
Phone
+81 52-935-6262
Worth it?
Worth it if you appreciate well-preserved historical collections and don't mind a museum that isn't huge
Skip if you're looking for a quick, casual stop without much historical context
Location
1017 Tokugawachō, Higashi Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 461-0023, Japan
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Highlights
The museum houses three Heian period illustrated handscrolls of The Tale of Genji, which are among the earliest extant depictions of the epic tale and are National Treasures of Japan.
Many exhibits allow photography with phones or small personal cameras (no flash, DSLRs, or mirrorless cameras), except for one specific room.
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Who it's for
History buffs and anyone interested in Japanese art and cultural artifacts, especially those curious about the Tokugawa period. It's also good for families, as it's wheelchair accessible and has free parking.
Know before you go
The museum is closed on Mondays.
The Genji Monogatari Emaki scrolls are very fragile and are only displayed for one week in November.
You can get a discount on admission if you have a Meguru bus ticket.
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Reviews
4.2
Very good
5 ReviewsVisitors praise the museum's extensive collection of historical artifacts, including samurai armor, katanas, and national treasures like the Tale of Genji scrolls. They also highlight the well-maintained facilities, with many exhibits allowing photography, and appreciate the availability of English explanations for some displays.
Fun facts
The museum was founded in 1931 by Yoshichika Tokugawa, the 19th head of the Owari clan, to preserve his family's collection.
The main building, completed in 1935, is designed in the Imperial Crown style, blending classic Japanese roof and exterior designs with a Western-style building.
