Kyoto National Museum

At the end of the Edo period during the late 18th century, Japan went through a period of rapid Westernization. During this modernization, ancient Japanese culture was despised. Many shrines and temples were destroyed and treasures were on the brink of being lost.

The Kyoto National Museum was founded to protect Japanese cultural heritage under such circumstances. Meiji Kotokan, the red brick main building is a reminder of the period when the museum was first built. (Most exhibitions are now held in the new Heisei Chishinkan, completed in 2014.)

The museum houses cultural artifacts from 9th to 18th century Kyoto, featuring a collection of over ten thousand items, such as Japanese and Chinese paintings, sculptures, works of art and textiles. Items on exhibit change regularly and special exhibitions are held several times a year, so be sure to check the website prior to your visit.

Be sure to explore the grounds as well, where you can enjoy artwork in the open air. The east side of the museum is home to a garden decorated with stone relics from the Korean Peninsula, while the garden on the west side features stone Buddhas and bridge pillars.

May 15, 2016