Kyoto National Museum

The Kyoto National Museum is located in the breathtaking city of Kyoto, Japan. This museum was first opened in 1897 and houses a large number of early artwork pieces and priceless antiquities. These items come from not only Kyoto but other regions of Asia as well. Everyone visiting Kyoto should visit this museum. It’s certainly affordable — adults can gain entry for only 420 Yen. For students, the price is only 130 Yen. Elementary and middle-school aged children are granted free entry. There are discounts available for large tour groups.

The Collections Hall is the main part of the museum and takes up two floors. On the first floor of the Collections Hall, you’ll find sculpture, ceramics, and archeology. There’s also a high-vision theater and information center as well. On the second floor, you’ll see paintings from China and Japan, Buddhist paintings, ink paintings, hand scrolls, calligraphy, textiles, lacquerware and metal work.

There are various special exhibitions that are featured several times each year. An example of a special exhibition is Kyoto Ware: Ceramic Designs and Techniques, an special event that runs from October to November 2006. Past exhibitions have included illustrated hand scrolls, Buddhist Tendai treasures and the Shohaku Show, to name a few.

The Kyoto National Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm. There are, however, extended hours for certain special exhibitions and events. On the second and fourth Saturday of every month, visitors are granted free admission to the museum.

There are special lectures, seminars and courses that are held at the museum and given in Japanese. The museum also features a gift shop and cafe where you can pick up some souvenirs and enjoy treats like tea, coffee and cake. When it comes to culture and fun, the Kyoto National Museum has it!