Museum culture in Tokyo, Japan!

Lake Ashi (Ashi-no-ko)

Why Visit?

Discovering Lake Ashi: A Museum Culture Tour

Nestled in the mountainous landscape of Hakone, Lake Ashi (Ashi-no-ko) offers more than just breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and serene boat rides. This picturesque lake area is a treasure trove of cultural heritage and art, perfect for museum enthusiasts looking to delve into Japanese history and aesthetics.

Morning: Hakone Shrine & Treasure Museum

Begin your tour at the mystical Hakone Shrine, easily accessed by a bus from Hakone-Yumoto station, which takes about 30 minutes. Hidden by towering cedar trees, the shrine"s vermilion torii gate along the lakeshore offers a photogenic contrast to the serene blue of Lake Ashi. After soaking in the spiritual ambiance, visit the small but fascinating Hakone Shrine Treasure Museum. Here, you"ll discover rare Japanese artifacts and religious items that narrate the shrine"s historical significance.

Midday: Narukawa Art Museum

Take a leisurely 15-minute ride on the Hakone Sightseeing Cruise from the shrine to Moto-Hakone port. A short walk from here will lead you to the Narukawa Art Museum, renowned for its collection of modern Nihonga (Japanese-style paintings). The museum"s Panorama Lounge provides a panoramic view of Lake Ashi with Mount Fuji in the background, perfect for contemplation and relaxation.

Afternoon: Hakone Museum of Art

Conclude your cultural tour with a visit to the Hakone Museum of Art, accessible by a 20-minute bus ride from Moto-Hakone. This museum specializes in Japanese ceramics, featuring collections from different historical periods. Its seasonal gardens, showcasing moss and azaleas, provide a tranquil setting that complements the ancient pottery.

Each site in this tour not only offers a glimpse into the art and history of Japan but also connects you deeply with the natural beauty and tranquility of Lake Ashi. Don"t forget to check each museum"s website before your visit for any special exhibitions or events that could enrich your experience further!

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Tokyo Skytree

Why Visit?

Tokyo Skytree and Museums Extravaganza

Start your cultural dive at Tokyo Skytree, a landmark that reaches for the heavens and anchors the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. At 634 meters, it"s the tallest structure in Japan and the second tallest in the world. Begin early to beat the crowds and make your way to Oshiage Station via the Hanzomon Line or Asakusa Line. From there, Tokyo Skytree is just a few steps away.

First, ascend to the Tembo Deck at 350 meters, where the panoramic views across Tokyo are nothing short of breath-taking. Learn about the tower"s design, inspired by traditional Japanese architecture, and its advanced anti-seismic technologies.

Next, visit the Sumida Aquarium, located within the Tokyo Skytree complex. This modern aquarium offers insights into the aquatic life of Tokyo Bay and the surrounding rivers. It"s a smooth blend of nature with the cutting-edge design, mirroring the fusion found throughout Tokyo.

For lunch, head to the Skytree Cafe on the Tembo Deck, where you can enjoy a meal with a view. Try the Tokyo Skytree Curry, a delightful treat that captures the essence of Tokyo"s culinary spirit.

Post-lunch, make your way to the Edo-Tokyo Museum, accessible by a short ride on the Tobu Skytree Line to Ryogoku Station. This museum offers a deep dive into Tokyo"s history, from its early days as Edo to the bustling city it is today. The reconstructions of historical buildings and life-size models provide a tangible connection to the past.

Wrap up your day with a stroll back to the base of Skytree, where you can explore the Solamachi shopping complex. Here, culture blends with commerce, offering both traditional crafts and modern Japanese fashion.

Each location in this itinerary not only highlights Tokyo"s soaring heights but also its deep cultural roots, making for a truly enriching museum tour.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Tsukiji Fish Market

Why Visit?

Embark on a cultural odyssey through Tokyo"s iconic Tsukiji Fish Market. Venture into the world of fresh seafood and traditional Japanese culinary practices in this bustling market environment.

Start your journey at Tsukiji Station, easily accessible by the Hibiya Subway Line. As you exit the station, a short stroll will bring you to the outer market. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere where seasoned vendors and eager food enthusiasts converge.

First Stop: Outer Market – Begin exploring the maze of small retail shops and food stalls. Sample local delicacies like tamagoyaki (sweet omelette) and fresh sushi for breakfast. Here"s a tip: many stalls open as early as 5 AM and can close by early afternoon, so an early start to your day will reward you with the freshest offerings.

Proceed to: Tsukiji Hongan-ji Temple – A brief walk from the market, visit this historic Buddhist temple known for its unique Indian architectural influences and serene atmosphere. The temple, rebuilt in the 1930s after a fire, stands as a testament to resilience and peace amidst the market"s hustle and bustle.

Explore: The Inner Market (Note: As of October 2018, the wholesale section has moved to Toyosu and is now known as Toyosu Market. However, visiting the remaining parts of Tsukiji continues to offer a rich experience.) Wander through the former wholesale area, where giant tuna auctions took place, and learn about the intricate details of fish trading and auctioneering.

Conclude your tour by visiting one of Tsukiji’s sushi bars for an authentic sushi experience. Engage with local chefs and watch the art of sushi-making up close. Restaurants in Tsukiji pride themselves on using the freshest ingredients directly sourced from the market.

This tour not only satisfies the palate but also enriches your understanding of Tokyo"s culinary heritage, making it a must-visit for any museum and culture enthusiast.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Mt. Fuji 5th Station

Why Visit?

Embark on a fascinating journey to the iconic Mt. Fuji 5th Station, where culture and majestic nature meet. Begin your adventure from Tokyo, easily accessible by taking the Keio bus from Shinjuku Station directly to the 5th Station. The scenic bus ride, lasting about 2.5 hours, offers glimpses of the breathtaking Japanese countryside.

Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the serene ambiance that surrounds Mt. Fuji, standing at 2305 meters. The 5th Station offers not only spectacular views but also hosts the Komitake Shrine, a testament to the mountain"s deeply spiritual significance to Japan. Originally a place of pilgrimage, the shrine provides a poignant insight into the Shinto beliefs that permeate Japanese culture.

Explore the visitor center, where you"ll find engaging exhibits about the geology, history, and cultural impact of Mt. Fuji. Learn about the mountain"s formation, its last eruption in the early 18th century, and its influence on Japanese art and literature. The visitor center also highlights the unique flora and fauna of the region, adding an ecological dimension to your cultural tour.

Stroll through the small market near the station that offers local crafts and traditional snacks. Pick up a souvenir or try some regional delicacies, such as the famous Fujisan bread, a sweet treat shaped like Mt. Fuji.

Conclude your visit by capturing the awe-inspiring panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Whether cloaked in snow or lush greenery, the vistas from the 5th Station are a photographer’s delight and a perfect ending to your cultural exploration of one of Japan’s most revered sites.

Remember to dress warmly as temperatures can be considerably cooler at this altitude, and check bus schedules in advance to ensure a smooth return to Tokyo.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu)

Why Visit?

Begin your cultural exploration at Tokyo"s serene oasis, the Meiji Shrine (Meiji Jingu), dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken. Nestled within a 170-acre evergreen forest, the shrine offers a refreshing escape from the city"s hustle.

Getting There

Access Meiji Shrine by taking the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station. The shrine"s grand torii gate, a mere 1-minute walk from the station, marks the entrance. Alternatively, the Tokyo Metro"s Chiyoda Line to Meiji-jingumae Station brings you directly to the shrine’s proximity.

Start Your Tour

Enter through the towering cypress torii gate, one of the largest in Japan, which sets a majestic tone for your visit. As you stroll along the gravel path, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surrounding forest, home to over 100,000 trees donated from regions across Japan, symbolizing peace and renewal.

Explore the treasure house, which displays many personal belongings of the Emperor and Empress, offering a glimpse into their private and public lives during a transformative era in Japan"s history. Make sure to check out the Inner Garden, especially during iris season in June, a favorite of the Empress.

Key Highlights

- Participate in typical Shinto activities: write a wish on an ema (wooden prayer plaque), wash your hands and mouth at the temizuya (water ablution pavilion), and take part in a spiritual purification ritual.

- Don"t miss the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery, which features a collection of 80 large murals depicting scenes from the emperor’s life and the era’s pivotal events.

Interesting Fact

The shrine was completed in 1920, eight years after Emperor Meiji"s death, and rebuilt in 1958 after being destroyed during WWII, symbolizing rebirth and resilience.

End your visit by reflecting on the seamless blend of cultural reverence and natural beauty that defines Meiji Shrine, a cornerstone of Tokyo’s historical landscape.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.