The Tokyo National Museum is the oldest museum in Japan, founded in 1872, and has a history spanning over 150 years. Located in Ueno Park in Taito City, Tokyo, the museum is a landmark that blends cultural heritage with natural scenery. As one of Japan's most representative museums, the Tokyo National Museum boasts an extensive collection and diverse exhibitions, dedicated to preserving and showcasing important cultural assets from Japan and across Asia.
The museum complex comprises five main exhibition buildings: the Honkan, which exhibits Japanese art and historical artifacts; the Hyokeikan, known for its Western-style architecture from the Meiji period; the Toyokan, which features cultural artifacts from various Asian countries; the Heiseikan, which hosts special thematic exhibitions; and the Gallery of Horyuji Treasures, which displays treasures donated by Horyuji Temple.
As of March 2019, the museum's collection exceeded 110,000 items, including paintings, sculptures, calligraphy, crafts, and archaeological artifacts. Among them, 89 items are designated as National Treasures of Japan, and 644 are Important Cultural Properties.
The Tokyo National Museum is operated and managed by the Independent Administrative Institution National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, and it also houses the headquarters of the Japan Kōgei Association.
