MUSEUMS TO GO FOR FREE IN TOKYO

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Decks

  • Overview: The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building boasts two observation decks offering panoramic views of the city skyline, including landmarks like Tokyo Tower and Mount Fuji on clear days. While not a traditional museum, the observation decks provide insight into Tokyo’s urban landscape.
  • Days/Times when it’s free: Open daily, including weekends and public holidays.
  • Highlights: Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Tokyo for free from the observation decks located on the 45th floor of both towers. Information displays provide insights into Tokyo’s history, geography, and landmarks visible from the decks.
  • Address: 2 Chome-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-8001, Japan
  • How to Get There by Public Transportation: Take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line or Toei Oedo Line to Tochomae Station. Alternatively, a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station’s West Exit will lead you to the building.
  • Secret Tips: Visit during sunset to witness Tokyo’s transition from day to night, offering a breathtaking cityscape with illuminated buildings. Arriving early can help avoid crowds, especially during weekends.

Edo-Tokyo Museum

  • Overview: The Edo-Tokyo Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of Tokyo (formerly known as Edo) through immersive exhibits and multimedia displays. While admission is typically required, entry is free for visitors aged 18 and under.
  • Days/Times when it’s free: Entry is free for visitors aged 18 and under throughout the year.
  • Highlights: The museum features life-size replicas, interactive exhibits, and artifacts showcasing Tokyo’s evolution from a small fishing village to a bustling metropolis. Highlights include models of historical buildings, traditional crafts, and dioramas depicting Edo-era daily life.
  • Address: 1 Chome-4-1 Yokoami, Sumida City, Tokyo 130-0015, Japan
  • How to Get There by Public Transportation: Take the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line or Toei Oedo Line to Ryogoku Station. From there, it’s a short walk to the museum.
  • Secret Tips: Check the museum’s schedule for special events and temporary exhibitions, which may offer additional free admission days or discounted rates for certain groups. Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid crowds, as weekends can be busier, especially during peak tourist seasons.

The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo (MOMAT) – Free Admission Day

  • Overview: MOMAT houses an extensive collection of modern and contemporary Japanese art, including paintings, sculptures, prints, and photography. While admission is typically required, entry is free on the first Sunday of every month.
  • Days/Times when it’s free: Free admission is offered on the first Sunday of each month.
  • Highlights: Visitors can explore various galleries showcasing works by renowned Japanese artists such as Yayoi Kusama, Taro Okamoto, and Katsushika Hokusai. The museum’s collection spans different art movements and styles, offering insight into Japan’s artistic heritage.
  • Address: 3-1 Kitanomarukoen, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 102-8322, Japan
  • How to Get There by Public Transportation: Take the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line or Tozai Line to Takebashi Station. The museum is located within walking distance from the station.
  • Secret Tips: Arrive early on Free Admission Day to avoid long queues, as the museum can get crowded. Consider joining a guided tour or participating in workshops and events offered by the museum to enhance your experience.

The National Museum of Nature and Science – Free Admission Day

  • Overview: The National Museum of Nature and Science showcases exhibits on natural history, science, and technology, including displays of fossils, specimens, and interactive exhibits. Free admission is offered on the 4th Saturday of every month.
  • Days/Times when it’s free: Free admission is offered on the 4th Saturday of each month.
  • Highlights: Visitors can explore galleries featuring dinosaurs, animals, plants, and minerals from Japan and around the world. Interactive displays and hands-on activities make learning fun for visitors of all ages.
  • Address: 7-20 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8718, Japan
  • How to Get There by Public Transportation: Take the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, Ginza Line, or JR Yamanote Line to Ueno Station. The museum is located within walking distance from the station.
  • Secret Tips: Arrive early to make the most of your visit, as the museum can get busy on Free Admission Day. Don’t miss the rooftop garden, which offers panoramic views of Ueno Park and the surrounding area.

The Hara Museum of Contemporary Art – Free Admission Day

  • Overview: The Hara Museum of Contemporary Art showcases contemporary artworks by Japanese and international artists, housed in a renovated 1930s mansion. Free admission is offered on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month.
  • Days/Times when it’s free: Free admission is offered on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month.
  • Highlights: Visitors can admire contemporary paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia artworks in a unique setting. The museum’s garden and cafe provide a tranquil space to relax and reflect on the art.
  • Address: 4-7-25 Kitashinagawa, Shinagawa City, Tokyo 140-0001, Japan
  • How to Get There by Public Transportation: Take the Tokyo Monorail or JR Yamanote Line to Hamamatsucho Station, then transfer to the Keikyu Line and alight at Shin-Bamba Station. The museum is a short walk from the station.
  • Secret Tips: Check the museum’s website for information on current exhibitions and special events. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to enjoy the artworks without crowds. Don’t forget to explore the museum’s gift shop, which offers unique souvenirs and art-related items.