The National Museum of Western Art (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is The National Museum of Western Art?
What makes it 78% Kids-Friendly: Under-12s enter free, borrow Bijutool kits, join Saturday workshops and “Lively Saturday” events, but many labels are in Japanese and touching art is forbidden, so restless children may tire after 90 minutes.
Positives:
- Free for Kids: Children under 18 enter the permanent collection galleries at no cost.
- Outdoor Sculpture Area: The open courtyard lets kids move freely and explore artworks safely.
Challenges:
- Quiet Gallery Rules: Galleries require low voices and no running, which may limit noisy play.
- Japanese Signage: Most exhibit labels are in Japanese; consider renting an audio guide for English explanations.
What is The National Museum of Western Art?
- A national museum in Ueno, Tokyo, housing one of Asia’s most comprehensive collections of European paintings and sculptures from the Middle Ages to World War II
- Established in 1959 on a Le Corbusier–designed building inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside 17 other works by the architect
- Home to masterpieces by Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, Picasso and Rodin, reflecting key movements in Western art history
What is so special about The National Museum of Western Art for with kids?
- Kids under 18 enter free and can use fun art kits.
- Outdoor sculptures let children explore safely.
- Hands-on workshops spark creativity on weekends.
- Café inside offers a relaxed snack break.
- Ueno Park location adds picnic and play options.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to see key galleries, use art kits, enjoy sculptures, and take a snack break.
Kids-Friendly Activities in The National Museum of Western Art
Explore the Sculpture Courtyard:
Walk the outdoor courtyard to see Rodin statues like The Thinker.
Tip: Let kids spot their favorite pose and take photos with the sculptures.
Use Bijutool Art Rental Kit:
Pick up free art kits at the permanent collection desk with games and tools.
Tip: Drop in any time; follow the kit’s game to guide kids to five works.
Join Saturday Art Workshops:
Attend hands-on workshops for children aged 6–9.
Tip: Apply online early and book adult admission separately.
Snack at Café Suiren:
Enjoy light meals and desserts without paying gallery admission.
Tip: Sit by the window to watch Ueno Park activities while you rest.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The National Museum of Western Art
- Arrive Early: Get there at opening time to enjoy quiet galleries and let kids explore at their own pace.
- Visit on 2nd Sunday: Permanent collection admission is free for adults on the second Sunday of each month.
- Download Family Worksheets: Print the free worksheets from the museum website to guide kids through highlights.
Reviews of The National Museum of Western Art
Liyang DING
Corb’s only work in Tokyo feels like a hybrid of Villa Savoye and Villa La Roche. It follows the “Modulor” concept precisely, regulating the dimensions and scale of the spaces. The only disappointment was that a mandated route skips some of the areas the architect intended visitors to experience, such as the balcony on the upper level.
Mara
One of my favorite places to visit whenever I'm in Tokyo! There was a Picasso exhibit when I last visited so it was great to drop by. Note: All photos shown were taken in areas where photography is allowed.
Ben Hills-Jones
Fabulous Le Corbusier designed gallery with stunning permanent collection. Lots of great European masters Monet and Cezanne in particular. Paid extra to see the exhibition from San Diego gallery. Queued to buy ticket maybe buy online first.
Minwoo Kim
Visited the National Museum of Western Art in Ueno Park and was able to access the special exhibition for free through my credit card benefits. Even though I only explored the special exhibition section, the sheer volume and quality of Western paintings and sculptures across the first and second floors was impressive. I discovered works by artists previously unfamiliar to me, like Gillis van Conin...
Yuka Krabi Villa
Had a great time exploring the art museum and studying works by famous artists. I wish I had visited earlier in the day. I arrived around 3:30 PM and the museum closes at 5:30 PM, so I didn’t get as much time as I would’ve liked. Getting the audio guide was definitely worth it, especially since the museum was quite crowded. It was much easier to listen rather than wait my turn to read the descript...
When is the best time to visit The National Museum of Western Art (Tokyo, Japan)?
In spring, picnic under cherry blossoms in Ueno Park before visiting. In summer, galleries offer a cool refuge. On select Saturdays in winter and summer, enjoy extended hours and a temporary kids’ space during Lively Saturday events.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult Admission (×2) | JPY 1,000 |
| Audio Guide Rental | JPY 300 |
| Café Snack (×4) | JPY 1,600 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 2,900 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of The National Museum of Western Art
Address: 7-7 Uenokōen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan
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About The National Museum of Western Art
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 50-5541-860010 BEST nearby Activities
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