This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

Tokyo’s Ueno Park is home to some of Japan’s best museums, where you can explore art, history, science, and local culture all in one place.

Tokyo National Museum stands behind a pond and manicured bushes, with a few people walking and sitting on benches nearby. The sky is partly cloudy.

Museums in the Heart of Tokyo’s Green Space

Ueno Park is more than a beautiful public park; it’s also one of Tokyo’s top cultural destinations. Within walking distance of each other, you’ll find world-class museums covering everything from prehistoric fossils to Edo-period neighborhoods and European masterpieces.

We’ve spent many afternoons here as a family, taking our time to explore at a relaxed pace. Whether you’re traveling with kids, teens, or visiting on your own, there’s a museum for every interest.

Tokyo National Museum (東京国立博物館)

Grand white stone building with a green domed roof, tall columns, and statues at the entrance of Tokyo National Museums, surrounded by trees and green lawns under a bright sky.

Founded in 1872, the Tokyo National Museum is Japan’s oldest and most prestigious museum. Its main Japanese Gallery takes you through the country’s history, with treasures ranging from samurai armor to delicate scroll paintings.

We especially enjoyed the special exhibitions, which often feature national treasures and rotating masterpieces. The museum shop is worth a visit for art-inspired gifts and beautiful stationery.

Family Tip: The museum is large, so if you have kids, focus on one or two galleries at a time and take breaks outside.

National Museum of Nature and Science (国立科学博物館)

A dinosaur skeleton is displayed in a museum with large, colorful digital screens showing animated prehistoric scenes in the background. The exhibit is under dramatic lighting in a spacious, modern room.

This interactive science museum is packed with exhibits on dinosaurs, space, animals, and the environment. Many displays have English translations, and there are hands-on areas that keep children engaged while still offering plenty for adults to enjoy. It’s our son’s favorite museum since he was a little boy.

Shitamachi Museum (下町風俗資料館)

Smaller than the other museums, this one recreates the atmosphere of Tokyo’s working-class neighborhoods during the Meiji and Taisho periods. You can step into old-style rooms, see vintage toys, and even handle some of the items on display.

More Museums in the Ueno Area

A modern concrete building with patterned walls and large windows stands beside a wide open plaza where several people gather; trees and a sculpture are visible in the background under a blue sky.

If you have time, there are several more museums within the park worth visiting:

  • The National Museum of Western Art (国立西洋美術館): European art from the Renaissance to the 20th century, including works by Monet and Rodin. The building, designed by Le Corbusier, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum (東京都美術館): Rotating exhibitions featuring both Japanese and international artists, plus student and local art shows.
  • The Ueno Royal Museum (上野の森美術館): A smaller venue with seasonal special exhibitions that often feature unique or rare works.

How to Get to Tokyo National Museums at Ueno Park

Train

  • JR Yamanote or Keihin-Tohoku Line to Ueno Station. Use the Park Exit (Koen-guchi).
  • Tokyo Metro Ginza or Hibiya Line to Ueno Station. Follow signs to Ueno Park.

Pro Tip: The museums here are extensive, so plan to visit only one or two in a day. Use the Park Exit at Ueno Station to start close to the main paths.

Is Ueno Park Worth Visiting for Museum Lovers?

Tokyo is one of the world’s richest cultural hubs, and Ueno Park’s national museums showcase art, science, and history in fascinating ways. We’ve returned many times, and thanks to the rotating exhibitions, there’s always something new to discover.

More to Explore Nearby

  • Ueno Zoo – Japan’s oldest zoo, famous for its giant pandas
  • Ameyoko Shopping Street – A lively market street lined with bargain shops and food stalls
  • Shinobazu Pond – Seasonal lotus blooms and scenic walking paths
  • Yanaka District – Traditional old-Tokyo charm with temples, shops, and cafes