The National Museum of Modern Art Kyoto (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is The National Museum of Modern Art Kyoto?
Children enter free, Saturday workshops and special family hours add learning fun, but quiet galleries, few interactive displays and no play zone can make energetic kids restless after a short time.
Positives:
- Free kids admission: Children in elementary and junior high enter free, saving on costs.
- Family facilities: Stroller rental, diaper stations, and nursing room available at no cost.
Challenges:
- Stroller space: Narrow gallery entrances may require you to leave strollers at the door.
- Limited English labels: Some exhibit descriptions are only in Japanese.
What is so special about The National Museum of Modern Art Kyoto for with kids?
- Early-entry Family Hour offers uncrowded viewing
- Free admission for kids under junior high
- Engaging workshops tailor-made for children
- Relaxing 4th-floor space perfect for sketching
- Café on the terrace with canal views
- Free stroller rental and family-friendly facilities
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives time to see key galleries, rest, and join a hands-on workshop.
Kids-Friendly Activities in The National Museum of Modern Art Kyoto
MoMAK Family Hour early entry:
Enter one hour before opening and enjoy uncrowded galleries.
Tip: Check exhibition schedule online and reserve family tickets in advance.
Hands-on Doyo Bijutsu art workshops:
Children create art guided by museum educators.
Tip: Sign up on the MoMAK website weeks before your visit.
Explore the permanent collection galleries:
See colorful nihonga, yōga paintings, and local crafts.
Tip: Download the free audio guide app for kid-friendly commentary.
Relax and sketch in the 4th-floor space:
Rest on benches or let kids draw artworks in view.
Tip: Bring a small sketchbook and pencils to capture inspiration.
Museum café on the 1st-floor terrace:
Enjoy snacks and drinks by the canal without a ticket.
Tip: Order cakes or drinks then head upstairs for exhibits.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult tickets (2 × ¥430) | JPY 860 |
| Kids admission (2 free) | JPY 0 |
| Café snacks & drinks | JPY 1,200 |
| Postcards & clear-files | JPY 500 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,560 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit The National Museum of Modern Art Kyoto?
Summer features special kids’ workshops like the August curator-for-a-day event; check MoMAK’s website and register early.
How to Maximize Your Visit to The National Museum of Modern Art Kyoto
- Book online tickets: Use the e-tix site to skip the ticket counter queue.
- Visit on weekday mornings: Galleries are quieter before noon, ideal for kids.
- Use coin lockers: Store bags and coats on the 1st floor to move freely.
Map of The National Museum of Modern Art Kyoto
Address: 26-1 Okazaki Enshōjichō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8344, Japan
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Reviews of The National Museum of Modern Art Kyoto
Kellan Fabjance
Nice, but small, museum. There is a kimono exhibition on currently, which was nice but pricey. ¥2000 for a combined ticket. There were only maybe 20 kimonos on display, for the price a little disappointing. But worth a look.
Barnabas
A nice museum that features a lot of Japanese artists. The main exhibit hall is very reasonably priced, but the special exhibits are quite a bit higher. A nice place to spend some time [out of the heat and away from the crowds] and get a different perspective on Kyoto.
Ben Hills-Jones
Came for the Young Poland exhibition which was very interesting and well presented. Perm collection is on floor 4 mainly modern Japanese also very interesting. Cafe nice too with outdoor patio. 2000Y entry cars and cash both ok.
David Wilson
Great museum housing a wondering array of modern, and classical, Japanese art (with some European artists as well)
Axel Büse
Small but interesting permanent collection. We also visited the Young Poland exhibition. Everything was very well presented.
About The National Museum of Modern Art Kyoto
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 75-761-4111See available options
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