Kyoto Historical Museums and Exhibitions

Kyoto National Museum

Established in 1897, the Kyoto National Museum is one of Japan's oldest and most distinguished museums, focusing on pre-modern Japanese and Asian art. The museum features a continually changing lineup of exhibitions from its collection and other institutions around the world.

Kyoto City Archaeological Museum

Founded in 1981, the Kyoto City Archaeological Museum displays artifacts and relics of Kyoto from the Jomon period to the Edo period. It offers a detailed insight into the life and culture of the people who once lived in this historic city.

Ryozen Museum of History

A museum commemorating the Meiji Restoration located near Kiyomizudera. The exhibitions include artifacts, weapons, and personal belongings of key figures from the period.

Koryo Museum of Art

The Koryo Museum of Art houses a large collection of Japanese art pieces including pottery, ceramics, and other artifacts from different periods, providing a glimpse of history through art.

Umekoji Steam Locomotive Museum

It provides an opportunity for visitors to explore the evolution of steam locomotives in Japan from the early Meiji era to the mid-Showa era.

Toei Kyoto Studio Park

This is a unique theme park in Kyoto that features several exhibits on the history of Samurai cinema, with many exhibits involving period costumes and historically accurate sets.

The Museum of Kyoto

The Museum of Kyoto offers comprehensive information on Kyoto's history and culture, with artistic, historical, cinematic, and archival exhibits throughout the building.

The Kyoto International Manga Museum

If you are into Manga, this is the place for you. The Kyoto International Manga Museum possesses approximately 300,000 Manga-related items from the Meiji era to the present age. Although Manga is a recent form of cultural expression, it has a deep root in the artistic and literary traditions of Japan making this museum an unusual but fitting tribute to Kyoto's cultural history.

Kawai Kanjiro Memorial Museum

Housed within the former residence of Kawai Kanjiro, a leading figure in the Mingei (folk art) movement of the 1920s-1930s, the museum showcases his works in pottery, wood carving, and calligraphy. It offers perspective into Kyoto’s evolving art and craft scene.