Kyoto National Museum Tours

Photo provided by City of Kyoto and Kyoto Tourism Council
Photo "Kyoto National Museum" by Yoshio Kohara (CC BY) / Cropped from original


As one of the principal museums of Japan, this site displays fascinating artifacts across impressive structures to tell the story of Kyoto’s place in the country.

The Kyoto National Museum endeavors to showcase the best of Japanese art and history. The museum, which was founded in 1897, uses the displays to teach visitors about Kyoto before and after its inception as the capital city. The complex is one of the national museums of Japan. Its collections of more than 12,000 items are spread across several impressive buildings. With a café, tearoom and store, tourists can spend a pleasant afternoon around the site’s grounds.

Enter through the Main Gate and its dome spires. From here, admire the redbrick Special Exhibition Hall with a backdrop of green, rolling mountains. There are elaborate fountains in the foreground. Browse the building’s galleries and temporary displays in dimly lit settings. Learn about the displays through their descriptions in English. Find exhibitions on many topics, from sculptures, music and other artwork to temples and historic artifacts. The demonstrations vary throughout the year.

Quench your thirst at the traditional Japanese teahouse, Tan’an, in the East Garden. Make your way to Café Karafuneya for rest and some food. Peruse the museum store to find souvenirs such as books, postcards and other informative items.

Exhibitions are closed on Mondays but stay open later on Fridays. Otherwise, viewings commence in the morning and conclude late in the afternoon. Admission fees vary depending on particular exhibitions.

You can find the Kyoto National Museum right next to the Sanjūsangen-dō Temple and the Toyokuni Shrine in the Higashiyama Ward. Take a bus from Kyoto Station. Hakubutsukan Sanjusangendo-mae bus stop is just 1 minute on foot from the museum. The site is a short walk from Shichijo Station, which is on the Keihan Railroad. If you drive to the museum, you can park in the lot for free for the first hour just be sure to present your parking ticket in the museum to receive the discount.

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Things to do near Kyoto National Museum

While visiting the Kyoto National Museum, explore nearby attractions like Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the historic Gion district. Rent a traditional kimono for an immersive experience and stroll through the charming streets of Nanajo. Don't miss the opportunity to take part in local activities and cultural experiences that make your trip to Kyoto unforgettable, all while indulging in the city's rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

Shopping

Kawaramachi Street, only 0.5 miles from the Kyoto National Museum, offers a vibrant shopping experience with family-friendly vibes. Nishiki Market, 1 mile away, buzzes with local flavors and city energy. Pontocho Alley, also 1 mile away, combines entertainment and shopping in a lively atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at Funaoka Thermal Bath, known for its soothing body treatments, only 4 miles from the museum. For an active day, head to Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium, located 3 miles away, where you can enjoy a variety of sports activities. Don't miss the vibrant performances at Kyoto Concert Hall, also 4 miles away.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views at the Mt. Otokoyama Cable Car, located 8 miles from Kyoto National Museum, offering a thrilling ride suitable for families. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Biwako Valley Ski Resort, 17 miles away, provides exciting skiing opportunities amidst stunning outdoor landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience Kyoto's nightlife by visiting Gion Corner, a charming theater just 0.8 miles from the museum, perfect for family and romantic outings. Alternatively, catch a show at Kyoto MINAMIZA Theatre, located 0.9 miles away, or explore the entertaining planetarium at Kyoto Municipal Science Center for Youth, 2 miles from the museum.

Find the best attractions near Kyoto National Museum

While visiting the Kyoto National Museum, immerse yourself in local culture by exploring nearby temples, shrines, and vibrant streets. Families and culture enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Kyoto Railway Museum and the Museum of Kyoto. For more art and history, consider visiting other national museums and art museums in the area, offering a rich blend of experiences for every traveler.

  • Kiyomizu Temple: Located only 0.8 miles from Kyoto National Museum, Kiyomizu Temple offers a serene cultural experience. This historic temple is renowned for its stunning wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, providing breathtaking views of cherry and maple trees, especially during spring and autumn.
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine: Situated 2 miles away, Fushimi Inari Shrine is famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that wind through the lush forest. This shrine, dedicated to the Shinto god of rice, immerses visitors in a rich cultural atmosphere as they hike up the sacred mountain.
  • Kyoto Tower: Just 0.8 miles from the museum, Kyoto Tower stands as a modern landmark that offers panoramic views of the city. Its sleek design contrasts with the traditional sights of Kyoto, making it a perfect spot for capturing stunning photos of the skyline.

Best time to go to Kyoto National Museum

Visitor numbers around Kyoto National Museum is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Kyoto National Museum is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January37.8°F (3.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.5°F (21.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July77.9°F (25.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
September73.0°F (22.8°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
October62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
November52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
December42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kyoto National Museum

To save money on your trip to the Kyoto National Museum, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February or September. Book your hotel about a month in advance, ideally on a Tuesday for the best rates. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and package discounts that combine flights and hotels. Joining the One Key membership program can also net you exclusive savings and future cash rewards. Lastly, leverage Expedia’s tools to filter for budget-friendly options and free cancellation deals to maximize your savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Kyoto National Museum are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Kyoto National Museum about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Kyoto National Museum is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Kyoto National Museum is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Kyoto National Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.