Tokyo Reviews

66. Restaurant Review: Ristorante Stefano (Kagurazaka)

2011-05-26T19:17:00.002+09:00

Want delicious, authentic, Venetian-style Italian food in Kagurazaka; then visit Ristorante Stefano. You can't go wrong when Stefano himself is very 'hands-on' in this quaint little bistro.

The atmosphere is warm, with dark wood beams crossing a white ceiling, and walls half wood and half 'beige-clay' colored. Table cloths are also beige, and wood chairs are covered in a European-style burgundy print. There are fresh flowers on every table, and candles which are lit in the evening. Decorations are minimal, with simple plates and masks from Venice adding to the ambiance. Italian music plays lightly in the background; while during the day, two frosted windows let in light, but cannot be seen through.

There is seating for about 24. Most tables are for two, but can be pushed together for larger parties.

Upon being seated, I was brought a green glass bottle filled with cold water. Although the sets are explained in English, the menu items themselves are only in Italian and Japanese. However, they were not so difficult to figure out and if you have any doubts, ask Stefano to explain them to you, he speaks wonderful English.

I ordered the least expensive lunch set, the Mezzo. It included a choice of appetizer, choice of pasta, a side of bread, coffee (or tea), and dessert for 2100 yen. I also ordered a glass of the house red wine which was 730 yen.

The wine was very good, and was served at room temperature. My appetizer choice was asparagus wrapped in bacon and topped with a slightly cooked egg, which I broke open to allow the yolk to run all over. Not the lowest calorie choice, I know. But, absolutely melt-in-your-mouth! The lady next to me had a large, tasty-looking salad.

I was given a small basket filled with three types of bread; focaccia (they alternate, rosemary or oregano), a whole grain, and a short, dry 'cracker' called grissini. All were baked on the premises.

The pasta I chose was gnocchi with rucola, tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese in an olive oil sauce. Absolutely delicious, but I would not choose this appetizer and pasta combination again as both were very rich. Maybe I'll have the salad next time...

After lunch I was given a choice of a multitude of different coffee and tea choices. I had the ice coffee, but only because the temperature in the restaurant was a little warm. I don't know if it was warm on purpose (the clientele was 90% Japanese women, who are always cold), or if it was just that day. I plan to visit again (and again) and I hope it is cooler next time.

Dessert was a beautifully presented pannacota with a small slice of apple tart. It was garnished with cream, fresh mint, and some tasty sauces.

Stefano constantly made the rounds, conversing with all of the patrons and often serving the dishes himself. He was charming and explained the ingredients of each dish.

There are three lunch sets to choose from. The Mezzo, mentioned above. The Pieno, same but add a main course (3150 yen). And, the Stefano Special Course - daily specialties for 4200 yen. Customers can also choose from the a la carte menu and they will receive 10% off during lunch time.

**THIS REVIEW WAS WRITTEN IN 2009. THIS IS A COPY OF AN UPDATED LUNCH MENU.

In the evening, choose from an a la carte menu, which is divided into Venetian traditional dishes and Stefano’s Veneto specialties, in addition to daily specials. There is also a fixed course at 8500 yen, or choose from a variety of courses starting at 4500 yen. A 500 yen table charge includes dessert plate and coffee/tea.

I highly recommend Ristorante Stefano if you are in Kagurazaka and have a craving for Italian!
UPDATE: I recently met someone from the Italian Embassy and I asked them for their three favorite Italian restaurants - Stefano's was one of them!

Hours of Operation:

Tues - Sat. 11:30 - 14:00 (last order) / 18:00 - 22:00 (last order)

Sun. 12:00 - 14:00 (last order) / 17:30 - 21:00 (last order)

Closed on Mondays.

Address: Terui Bld. 1F, 6-47 Kagurazaka

*One minute walk from Kagurazaka Station (Kagurazaka Exit). Beside 'Softbank'. Down a long, slightly dark corridor. Look for the menu posted on a podium near the sidewalk.

Phone: 03-5228-7515
Website: http://www.stefano-jp.com/

NEW INFORMATION: Stefano has opened a more casual establishment just up the slope from Ristorante Stefano. It is called 'Brusca'. They occasionally have live music. See the above website for more information.

Address: Hosoya Bld., 2F, 107 Yarai, Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo
Phone: 03-6457-5788, closed on Monday

65. Museum Review: Hara Museum of Contemporary Art

2010-11-19T16:48:00.002+09:00

Founded in 1979, the Hara Museum was one of the first contemporary art museums in Japan. Located in Shingawa Ward, the building was originally a private residence constructed in 1938.

The entrance to the museum is surrounded by lovely shade trees, and a number of exhibits are scattered around the lawn. Inside are two floors containing 5 gallery spaces and a cafe overlooking a grassy space that contains more exhibits and outdoor seating.

The museums's collection comprises of about 1,000 works by leading and upcoming artists from around the world. In addition to permanent sculptures in the garden, there are some very interesting permanent exhibits inside including 'My Drawing Room' by Yoshitomo Nara and 'Time Link' by Tatsuo Miyajima.

By the way, when you wander the museum, don't hesitate to open any doors that you see. Except for the obvious (toilet, office), behind most doors are exhibits themselves.

On my most recent visit, the museum was holding a special exhibition for Jae-Eun Choi called 'Forests of Asoka'. I often find the exhibits here to be quite bizarre, but was pleasantly surprised with Choi's work. *Her exhibit runs through December 26, 2010.

This museum never seems to be busy, and they offer a couple of really tasty lunch specials, as well as some yummy desserts. Although I don't find the garden space (above) to be that impressive, it is a quiet oasis in the city. The garden/park of Gotenyama is directly behind the museum and entry is free.

Address: 4-7-25, Kitashinagawa, Shingawa Ward

Phone: 03-3445-0651

Website: http://www.haramuseum.or.jp/

Hours of Operation: 11:00am - 5:00pm, Wednesdays until 8:00pm. *Last entry 30 min. before closing.

Closed: Mondays

Admission: 1000 yen (general), 700 (high school and univ student), 500 yen (elem and Jr high).

*Free for students through high school every Saturday during the school terms.

Directions: 5 minutes by taxi or 15 minutes by foot from Shinagawa Station (Takanawa Exit). Or, from the same station, take the No. 96 bus, and get off at the first stop (Gotenyama), and walk 3 minutes.

64. Museum Review: Shiodome Museum / Rouault Gallery (Shiodome)

2010-08-02T20:27:00.002+09:00

When Panasonic opened their new headquarters in Shiodome in 2003, they also opened the Shiodome Museum to showcase the paintings and prints of the twentieth century French painter Georges Rouault (1871-1958). Their collection, which consists of approximately 200 of his works, have been collected by the company as part of its cultural contribution to society.

A rotating selection of Rouault's work is on permanent display, and the museum periodically holds special exhibitions relating to the artist. In addition, the museum holds exhibitions on themes corresponding to the actual undertakings of the company, such as "architecture and living" and "life and design."

The current exhibition, Hans Coper Retrospective - Innovation in 20th Century Ceramics, runs from June 26, 2010 - September 5, 2010. Hans Coper was one of the masters of British ceramics in the 20th century. If you've never seen his work, this is a great opportunity - It is impressive and very original.

The museum itself is very quiet (very few people know of its existence), well laid out, and easy to get to.

Hours of operation: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm (Entry until 5:30 pm). Closed on Mondays (excluding holidays), New Year holidays, museum summer holidays, and during changes of exhibits.

Admission: Adults:500/ Senior high school and college students:300/ Elementary school and junior high school students:200/ Seniors:400 (Different fees may be charged during special exhibitions.)

Address: Shiodome Museum 4F Pansonic Electric Works Tokyo Headquarters, 1-5-1 Higashi-Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 105-8301

Phone: 03-5777-8600

Access:
Five-minutes' walk from Ginzaguchi Exit of JR Shimbashi Station.
Three-minutes' walk from Exit 2 of Shimbashi Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line.
Three-minutes' walk from the ticket wicket of Shimbashi Station on the Toei Asakusa Line.
One-minutes' walk from Exits 3 and 4 of Shiodome Station on the Toei Oedo Line
Website: http://panasonic-denko.co.jp/corp/museum/en/

63. Museum Review: Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum

2010-04-15T10:48:00.001+09:00

Taro Okamoto was Japan's pioneer in avante-garde art. He was a painter, photographer, sculptor, designer, and more! Influenced by Picasso at a young age, his art was radically different than anything a Japanese had ever created before.

Here is a very interesting video about him: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTOwzRiQvHU

The Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum in Minami-Aoyama was Okamoto's home and studio for over 40 years. He lived there until his death in 1996 at the age of 84. The museum has over 600 pieces, including a 140cm prototype for his 'Tower of the Sun', which is a 70 meter tall sculpture created as the symbol of the 1970 Osaka Expo.

In addition to displaying his works, the museum kept Okamoto's studio and garden intact.

A small cafe called 'A Piece of Cake' sits next to the garden and it is not necessary to pay the entrance fee to enter either. The day I was there a Japanese mom had brought her daughter to the garden to color (see photo below). Obviously inspired, the two of them were drawing vigorously!

Many of the paintings here are unfinished works as Okamoto had already donated over 1,800 of his pieces to the city of Kawasaki before he passed away. You can see my entry on that museum here: http://kanagawareviews.blogspot.com/2007/04/museum-review-taro-okamoto-museum-of.html

Even if you are not a fan of this type of art, the museum is a quiet, and interesting, oasis not far from Omotesando.

Admission: 600 yen for adults, 300 yen for elementary school students

Hours of Operation: 10am - 6pm (last entry at 5:30). Closed on Tuesdays and during the New Year's holidays.

Address: Minato-ku, Minami Aoyama 6-1-19, 8 minutes walk from Omotesando Station.

Use exit A5, go right. Walk down to the third traffic light and turn right (the Nezu Museum will be in front of you). Walk straight, and just before the main street (and traffic light), make a right.

Phone: 03-3406-0801

Website: http://www/taro-okamoto.or.jp/ (Japanese only)

62. Museum Review - Nezu Museum

2009-12-02T10:17:00.005+09:00

Recently re-opened after a three year renovation, the Nezu Museum is an incredible oasis within Tokyo. The industrialist and President of Tobu Railway, Kaichiro Nezu, originally opened this museum at his private residence in 1941. The museum and grounds cover more than 20,000 square meters. Within that space are the museum itself, a large Japanese garden, several tea houses, and a small cafe.

The museum is divided into 6 galleries:

1) Special Exhibitions

2) Paintings and Calligraphy

3) Sculpture

4) Bronzes

5) Decorative Arts

6) Tea Arts
The collection also includes lacquerware, bamboo crafts, ceramics, metalwork, textiles, and archaeological materials. Altogether the museum possesses over 7,000 pieces, including 7 works designated as National Treasures, 87 Important Cultural Properties, and 96 Important Art Objects. The museum's most famous pieces are its ancient Chinese bronzes and a folding screen of irises by the 17th century artist, Korin Ogata.

The current special exhibition (11/18/09 - 12/23/09) is 'Nezu Seizan: Tea and Art'. Mr. Nezu was an enthusiastic practioner of tea ceremony and he was famous for his end of year 'tea parties' and his incredible collection of tea related artifacts.

All exhibits are labeled in English.

This was my first visit to the Nezu Museum, and I was not disappointed. I was very impressed by the building itself, and its exhibits. But the garden took me completely by surprise. I have visited most of the gardens in Tokyo and this is now my very favorite. It is especially beautiful in the fall.
Unbelievably, it is just down the street from Aoyama-dori and Omotesando Station!

Address: 6-5-1 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0062

Getting there: 8 minute walk from exit A5 of Omotesando Station of the Ginza, Hanzomon, and Chiyoda subway lines. It is also 5 minutes from Minami Aoyama 6-chome Bus stop on the Metropolitan Bus Shibu 88 that runs between Shibuya and Shimbashi Stations.

Entrance fees: 1000 yen for regular collection, 1200 for special exhibitions

Hours of Operation: 10am - 5pm (last entry at 4:30). Closed on Mondays, during exhibition installations, and during the New Year's holiday period. When a National Holiday falls on a Monday, the museum is open on that Monday and is closed the next day.

Website: http://www.nezu-muse.or.jp/ *They have a fantastic English website, and the curator speaks perfect English.

I highly recommend this museum to anyone interested in Japanese culture, art, and gardens

61. Transportation Review: Tokyo Shitamachi Bus

2009-10-01T16:41:00.006+09:00

The Tokyo Shitamachi Bus is a new bus service for the touristy 'downtown' sections of the city. The bus runs back and forth between Tokyo Station and Ryogoku and costs 200 yen per ride for adults (100 for children). They also offer a one-day Toei Bus pass for 500 yen (250 for children), which includes some really good discounts at locations along the route. The pass is good for the Shitamachi bus, and all other Toei buses.

The bus itself has been designed in a retro style, with a large round window on both sides of the back. If you ride the bus, sit beside one of these windows for the best views. Pay or show your pass when you get on the bus, press a button before the stop you want, to get off. Be sure to grab the two English brochures on the bus, they contain a lot of helpful information and good maps.

There are tv's on the bus with English subtitles and stops are announced in a number of different languages. Buses run daily at 30 minute intervals from 9:00 am to around 6:00pm. If you go from end to end, it takes about one hour. The ride is pretty slow, but it gives a good view of the area.

Bus stops are marked in Japanese and English with a sign that says 'tokyo shitamachi bus'.

Here are the stops:

1) Tokyo Station (Marunouchi North Exit)
2) Nihombashi Mitsukoshi
3) Sudacho (Akihabara) - on weekdays and Saturdays
Manseibashi (Akihabara) - on Sundays and holidays
4) Ueno Koen (park) Yamashita / Ueno Station
5) Kikuyabashi (Kappabashi Dogugai Street)
6) Asakusa Kaminarimon
7a) Ryogoku Station
7b) Toei Ryogoku Station (Edo-Tokyo Museum)

I highly recommend this bus to tourists (and locals alike), especially for an entire day of sightseeing in Shitamachi. 500 yen for a day pass (with discounts at locations along the route) is an excellent deal!

*By the way, the Ryogoku Station bus stop is just outside and down the street a little from the West Exit. Just behind the bus stop is a tiny tourist center with really good walking maps of Ryogoku. The maps do not have any English writing on the outside of them, but the map inside is labeled in Japanese and English. Currently the outside of the brochure is burgundy with mostly white printing and a wood block print picture. Be sure to get one!

60. Temple Review: Tsukiji Honganji

2009-08-26T09:40:00.005+09:00

The Tsukiji Honganji Temple dates back to 1617 when Junnyo Shonin, the 12th leader of the Jodo Shinshu Sect of Buddhism in Kyoto, established a branch temple in Edo (Tokyo). Known at that time as the 'Edo-Asakusa Gobo', the temple burned down in the Great Fire of 1657. Permission to rebuild in the same spot was denied by the feudal government. Instead, an area of the shoreline of Hatchobori was reclaimed from the sea by devout followers, many who lived on nearby Tsukudajima. The word Tsukiji means 'built up land', so the temple came to be called 'Tsukiji Gobo' and the district around it became known as Tsukiji.The temple was destroyed again in the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, and it was rebuilt from 1931 to 1934 with an Indian architectural motif designed by Chuta Itoh, a professor of Architecture at Tokyo University. It will be observing the 750th memorial service of its founder in 2012.

Although the building is large and impressive looking from the outside, the temple grounds themselves are just a huge paved parking lot. Anyone is welcome to go inside, but as the hall is filled with cheap theater seats, it is not terribly impressive. There are English brochures available near the front door, and they explain the history of the temple and the important artifacts stored there. Unless you happen to be walking down the street or visiting Tsukiji Fish Market, I would not go out of my way to visit this temple.

Monthly Dharma talks in English are held generally on the last Saturday from 5:30pm. There is more information on their website: http://www.tsukijihongwanji.jp/

Morning and evening worship services (in Japanese) are held daily at 7:00am and 4:00pm. There are also special services throughout the year (New Years, Buddha's Birthday,...).

Address: 3-15-1 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku 104-8435, Tokyo

Phone: 03-3541-1131

Getting there: Hibiya Line to Tsukiji Station. Or, the Oedo Line to Tsukiji-shijo Station.

59. Restaurant Review: L-Atelier de Joel Robuchon (Roppongi Hills)

2009-04-27T14:44:00.003+09:00

A sister restaurant to the chef's Paris location, L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon is a welcome addition to Tokyo. The French restaurant is 'Roppongi Hills Casual' (meaning: not that casual) and most guests are seated at a long bar counter that overlooks a completely visible kitchen. There are also three tables that can seat four each.

Sit at the counter, the show is better. The shiny silver (spotlessly clean) kitchen is full of activity, with a staff dressed in all black working in perfect coordination.

I was there for dinner with my husband. We started with a few appetizers including the best shrimp I have ever eaten in my life. It was lightly battered and fried and it melted in my mouth. Pricey at 1000 yen each, but I'd order them again.

My main dish was a marinated white fish (3,200 yen), my husband had lamb chops (3,900). Both absolutely delicious. We stopped there, but all of the French people around us (there were quite a few) had a cheese plate with bottles of wine, then coffee,...

Glasses of the house red were 1,300 yen, a 500ml bottle of Evian, 700 yen.There is a 10% service charge, and our bill came to 16,389 yen. Not somewhere you could eat on a regular basis. But, it was some of the best food I've ever eaten in Tokyo, I would recommend it, hands down.

Reservations are only accepted for lunch and early dinner.

Menus are in French and Japanese. If you don't read either, just pick anything - it all seems to be delicious.

Address: Roppongi Hills Hillside, 2nd Floor, 6-10-1 Roppongi
Hours of Operation: 11:00- 22:00 (last order is at 22:00).
Tel: 03-5772-7500
http://www.robuchon.com/

Next door is the Robuchon Boutique, which sells traditional French breads and pastries.

58. Restaurant Review: K-Shiki (Mandarin Oriental Hotel)

2009-04-27T14:39:00.004+09:00

With incredible views of Tokyo from the 38th floor, K'Shiki is a restaurant in the new Mandarin Oriental Hotel. It has an elegant Japanese feel, with huge windows overlooking the city.

I visited this restaurant in a group of 25, and it was strongly suggested that we order the Mandarin Lunch Set. Three members that were unable to eat seafood ordered a pizza set instead, but the rest of us never saw a menu.

The lunch was 'Asian-inspired'. First, an appetizer of raw? scallops and octopus, cut into tiny pieces and mixed together. Perhaps a dish the Japanese would really like, it was not a big hit for our American crowd. Next was a wasabi flavored cream risotto with seaweed sprinkles. I found it quite tasty, but two of the ladies close to me only had a bite.

The main dish was a choice of roasted tenderloin or sea bream in a rice cracker coating. Both of these entrees were excellent. For dessert we had some vanilla bean ice cream and a fried wonton stuffed with chocolate. Everyone liked the ice cream (of course), but the wonton with chocolate was not that tasty. We also had a choice of tea or coffee.

Considering that the Mandarin Oriental is a major international hotel chain, I think they should have thought twice about recommending this set to our group. Americans are not known for having adventurous palettes. I have lived in Japan for 11 years, and even I wish that I had been given a different choice.

Service was excellent, although I felt there was too much of a gap between when we finished and when the desserts and coffee/tea arrived. Also, when asked if we preferred separate checks, we said 'yes'. I don't think they anticipated a 'yes' and there was quite a bit of commotion. We did get our separate checks, though.

The Mandarin Lunch Set was 3500 yen with a 10% service charge (a 5% consumption tax was already included). I will never understand why there has to be a service charge. Almost nowhere else in Japan is one ever included. I always feel cheated when foreign hotel chains insist on this practice. Since we had just completed a tour of the spa and they were courting our business, we did receive a 10% discount on our meal. That took care of our service charge, but everyone else in the restaurant still had to pay one.

I also ordered their least expensive glass of wine (1400 yen). One coke was ordered (900 yen). With drink prices so high, our other 23 members just drank water.

Although the view was magnificent, I doubt I will eat here again. I may, however, bring guests from overseas to the hotel. Perhaps we'll have better luck at one of the other restaurants, or maybe we'll just have drinks. For those who don't want to spend a lot of money for the view, just stand in the lobby. Or, even better, go to the bathroom. Definitely one of Tokyo's best free views of the city!

57. Area Review: Sangenjaya (Setagaya)

2009-04-26T17:25:00.008+09:00

Just outside of Shibuya on the Den-en-toshi Line is Sangenjaya, which means 'three tea houses'. The area was given this name because travelers from the countryside would stop here on their way into Tokyo. The tea houses are gone, and although there are a number of nice shops/restaurants in the area, there are three main reasons to visit:

First, it is a starting/ending station of the Tokyu Setagaya Line, one of only two remaining streetcars in Tokyo.

Second, is the Carrot Tower. It is Setagaya Ward's tallest building, and as it was built to attract people to Sangenjaya and the ward itself, it has a free observatory on the 26th floor.

There are many observatories in Tokyo, but I like this one because Sangenjaya lies outside of the Yamanote Line and their are no other tall buildings nearby. It gives a very unique perspective of the city.

The best way to enjoy the observatory is to have lunch there. Since the Carrot Tower is owned by the Setagaya Government, the restaurant has a cafeteria feeling, but the view and tasty food more than make up for its lack of style. The menu is all in Japanese, but if you can read katakana, you can read most of the choices. Best of all, lunches start at only 1100 yen and usually include salad and coffee/tea.

The Setagaya Public Theatre is also located in the Carrot Tower. And, I am happy to say, they actually have an English website: http://setagaya-pt.jp/en/

The third reason to visit Sangenjaya is because it is home to one of Tokyo's two Samba Festivals (the other is in Asakusa). It is called the 'Sancha Matsuri' and in 2008 was held on August 23 and 24. The festival commemorates the historic relationship between Japan and Brazil, and it features an impressive Samba parade, live performances, and booths selling a wide variety of products.

56. Transportation Review: Toden Arakawa Line

2009-01-08T13:55:00.006+09:00

The Toden Arakawa Line, which originated in 1913, is one of only two remaining streetcars in Tokyo. It operates from Waseda Station in Shinjuku Ward, cutting through Toshima Ward and Kita Ward; before terminating at Minowabashi Station in Arakawa Ward.

On most of the 12 kilometer journey it runs along its own tracks; but it also runs along Meiji Dori between Asukayama Station and Oji Eki-mae Station. The entire ride takes about 50 minutes. It is a slow, and leisurely ride through some interesting sections of Tokyo's 'Shita-machi' (the traditional 'downtown').

Some interesting stations for explorations include:

*Waseda - home of Waseda University, one of the top private universities in Japan. The campus is open to the public and is covered with many trees.

*Zoshigaya - Zoshigaya Cemetery and Gokokuji Temple

*Koshinzuka - Sugamo, the 'Harajuku' of the elderly

*Asukayama - Asukayama Park and it's museums

*Arakawa-yuenchimae - Children's amusement park

*Minowabashi - very 'downtown' atmosphere with once popular shotengai covered shopping arcade

A ride along the Arakawa Line costs a flat 160 yen, no matter how far you go. I recommend buying the 'Ichinichi Josya Ken' for 400 yen. With this ticket, you can hop on and off the train as much as you like for one day.

To see a map of the streetcar (with connecting train lines), use this link:

http://www.kotsu.metro.tokyo.jp/english/toden_map.html

Exploring along the Arakawa Line is a great, inexpensive way to spend the day!

55. Museum Review: Hatoyama Kaikan (Bunkyo-ku)

2008-11-18T16:50:00.006+09:00

The Hatoyama Kaikan was once the residence of the famous Hatoyama family. A Western style residence that was built in 1924, it had fallen into disrepair, but was renovated and is now a memorial hall commemorating the Hatoyama family's contributions to politics and education in Japan.
The Hatoyama's have been active participants in Japanese politics for many years. Most recently, Kazuo Hatoyama (1856 - 1911) was once Vice-Foreign Minister, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tokyo University professor, and the President of Waseda University. Ichiro Hatoyama (1883 - 1959) was once Secretary of the Cabinet, Minister of Education, and a Prime Minister. Iichiro Hatoyama (1918 - 1993) was once the Vice-Minister of the Ministry of Finance, member of the House of Councilors, and Minister of Foreign Affairs. Yukio and Kunio Hatoyama are currently members of the House of Representatives.

The home was built by Ichiro Hatoyama, and it was here that he helped form the present Liberal Democratic Party.

There are currently three memorial rooms; one dedicated to Ichiro, another to his wife Kaoru, and another to Iichiro Hatoyama. There are also some lovely sculptures of Kazuo, and his wife, Haruko, in the garden.

Haruko founded what is now Kyoritsu Women's University, and she contributed to women's education for many years. Kaoru Hatoyama became schoolmaster of Kyoritsu Women's University.
The residence has some very beautiful stained glass windows, and a lovely rose garden. I don't think the home is impressive enough to go out of your way to see. But, it is a short distance from Chinzanso, Edogawa Park, and Gokokuji Temple. In combination, they would be a nice sightseeing choice.
Entrance Fees: adults 500 yen, older students 300 yen, elementary and Jr. high students 200 yen. Discounts for the elderly and groups of 20 or more.

Address: Bunkyo-ku, Otowa 1-7-1

It is a 7 minute walk from the 1a exit of Edogawa Station. And, an 8 minute walk from exit #5 of Gokokuji Station.

Hours of Operation: 10:00 - 16:00 (last entry at 15:30). Closed on Mondays.

54. Museum Review: The Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum (Bunkyo-ku)

2008-06-04T16:56:00.009+09:00

Located within the premises of the Tokyo Dome, the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is for baseball lovers, especially those with an interest in Japanese baseball. The museum is divided into sections, all dealing specifically with baseball in Japan:

1) Highlights and New Acquisitions
2) Professional Baseball
3) History of Baseball
4) Amateur Baseball
5) Baseball Hall of Fame
6) Special Exhibitions
7) Event Hall - Hands on Baseball Experience
8) Library

Very few of the exhibits are labeled in English, but I was given an extremely thorough pamphlet on my way in.

I don't have much to say about this museum because I do not have any interest in Japanese baseball. It was well put together, exhibits were easy to see,... but I really only recommend this museum to those who like Japanese baseball, otherwise most of the memorabilia has little significance.

Admission: Age 6-15: 200 yen; Adults: 500 yen; Age 65 and up: 300 yen

Hours of Operation:
March - September: 10am - 6pm
October - February: 10am - 5pm

Closed most Mondays and during the New Year's holidays.

Address: 1-3-61 Koraku, Bunkyo-ku 112-0004
*The entrance is located to the right of Gate 21 of the Tokyo Dome.

Phone: 03-3811-3600

They do have an excellent English website: http://english.baseball-museum.or.jp/index.html

53. Amusement Review: Tokyo Dome City (Bunkyo-ku)

2008-03-19T18:05:00.009+09:00

A section of Bunkyo Ward, Koraku is an entertainment playground. The centerpiece is the famous Tokyo Dome, but it is surrounded by an area called 'Tokyo Dome City'.

An amusement park takes up a large part of this area. Rides seem to hang over the city streets, and they actually go through buildings and each other! They can all be ridden separately, or an 'all you can ride' pass can be purchased. The amusement park is built into the Tokyo Dome City, so it is free to walk around the rides.
Built halfway around the amusement park is 'La Qua', a building filled with over 70 shops and restaurants. There is also a natural hot springs spa built into the upper floors.

Towering over everything is the 155 meter Tokyo Dome Hotel. I recommend having the buffet lunch at the 'Artist's Cafe' on the 43rd floor. Named after the artists that perform in the Tokyo Dome, make sure you reserve ahead of time to get a table right by the window. The city views are fantastic! If you are in the area at night, stop by the bar for the same great view, often with live music performances.

Also within the Tokyo Dome City is the 'Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum' (see next review). The Tokyo Dome itself hosts over 60 baseball games a year, as well as a number of other sporting events (boxing, American football, monster trucks,...). There are also special exhibitions, the most famous being the yearly 'International Great Quilt Festival' held every January (photo below).

The Tokyo Dome City also contains the largest JRA WINS horse race betting complex in Tokyo. Here you'll see many down-on-their-luck Japanese men hanging out, smoking heavily, trying to win their way out of disfortune. A large game center is beside WINS, in addition to games there are batting cages, bowling, and more.

For English information on everything I've mentioned, visit this site: http://www.tokyo-dome.co.jp/e/dome/

Access: Tokyo Dome City is located in the southwest corner of Bunkyo Ward. Korakuen Station (on the Marunouchi and Namboku Subway Lines) and Suidobashi Station (Mita Subway Line and JR Chuo Line) puts you right in the center of the 'City'. It is also a very short walk from Kasuga and Iidabashi Stations. Here is a nice map of the area:
http://gmap.jp/shop-11397.html

52. Garden Review: Koishikawa Korakuen (Bunkyo-ku)

2008-03-19T17:22:00.004+09:00

Koishikawa Korakuen is one of Tokyo's oldest and most beautiful Japanese landscape gardens. The Tokugawa daimyo (feudal lord) Yorifusa Mito began construction of the park in 1629. It was completed by his successor, the famous Mitsukuni Mito, as part of his daimyo yashiki (feudal lord residence). Mitsukuni Mito was interested in Chinese teachings, so he named the garden 'Korakuen'. Koraku means 'enjoying afterwards', from a Chinese proverb stating 'a governor should worry before his people and enjoy after his people'. The landscape design incorporates a mix of Chinese and Japanese influences.When built, the residence helped guard the approach to Edo Castle from the north. It also protected the Kanda Aqueduct, Edo's main water source. There was an arsenal at this location from 1867, and it was eventually turned into a public park and national historic site in 1952.
This photo shows an area of the garden where rice was planted, raised, and harvested by Mitsukuni Mito's son. Mitsukuni thought it was important for his son to know how difficult it was to grow the precious crop.

I recommend doing some research on Mitsukuni Mito before visiting this garden. Many TV series have been created about this incredible man, the most famous is the fictionalized 'Mito Komon'.

Admission: 300 yen

Open everyday, except during the New Year's holidays
Hours of Operation: 9:00 - 17:00

Address: Koraku 1-6-6, Bunkyo-ku

A short walk from Iidabashi or Korakuen Stations. It is right behind the Tokyo Dome.

Phone: 03-3811-3015

51. Park Review: Shioiri Park (Arakawa-ku)

2008-02-18T19:50:00.010+09:00

Minami-Senju is not a popular area of town for tourists. It is right in the middle of Tokyo's 'Shita-machi', older neighborhoods of the working class. This area of Minami-Senju, however, is brand new and so is Shioiri Park. Shioiri Park has all the basics: baseball fields, tennis courts, large grassy lawns, picnic & BBQ areas, and an excellent playground. Located along the Sumida River, there is also a lovely cycling course. I was also impressed that although the riversides are concrete, they left a nice section of reeds right at the waters' edge.I was surprised by, a huge, beautiful, traditional-style building that sits between the park and the Tokyo Metropolitan College of Industrial Technology. It is actually the 'Shirahige Nishi Pump Place', a water treatment facility. What a way to hide an unsightly necessity! (It is the large building on the left below).
Minami-Senju hosts a very large train freight depot. The Shioiri Park area lies just beside it, and the entire area, including all of the residences (mostly high-rise condos), are very new. I don't know what the area was before, but its 'renewal' is very impressive.

I recommend this park for those who want some wide-open space, but don't want to travel very far to find it!

The park is a short walk or bus ride from Minami-Senju Station. There is also reasonably priced parking available.

By the way, keep your eye out for English language tourist brochures of Arakawa Ward. They are excellent. I would never have know about this park if I hadn't read about it in their brochure.

50. Park Review: Arakawa Amusement Park (Arakawa-ku)

2008-02-18T18:45:00.012+09:00

The Arakawa Amusement Park is one of Tokyo's best buys and a great place to bring small children! Originally a villa for the feudal lord, Todo Takatora, it is the only city-run theme park in the city of Tokyo. The site became a brick factory in 1872, and later was changed into 'Arakawa Gardens', a private park with amusement facilities. It was shut down during WWII, but reopened in 1950 as the current 'Arakawa Amusement Park'.
The park is not very large, but there are a lot of things for children to do. First, there are some rides including a small ferris wheel, merry-go-round, mini-train, and pedal-powered 'sky' cars.
There is also a roller coaster that is known as 'the slowest roller coaster in Japan'. It was perfect for the 7 year old I took on my second visit. It was the only ride we did twice!Also in the park is an 'Animal Plaza'. In addition to some caged animals (monkeys, birds,...), there is a great petting zoo. Kids get a chance to get up close and personal with goats, deer, sheep, rabbits, and really cute guinea pigs! On a second visit to the park, the petting zoo was kept clean, but the waste in some of the other cages needed to be dealt with.
Many were enjoying a couple of small fishing ponds. This area was quite popular with older elementary school boys and their fathers. The park also contains some grassy picnic areas, some fast food outlets, and some great blow-up 'attractions'. There was also a live music performance the day I was there (traditional Japanese drumming, flutes,...).

If you just want to look around, the entrance fee is 200 yen for adults, 100 yen for children. For 1400 yen, and adult and child can enter together and they receive 12 tickets. Each ride 'costs' one ticket for a child, two tickets for an adult. Extra tickets can be purchased if necessary.

Hours of Operation: 9:00 - 17:00, closed on Tuesdays

Tel: 03-3893-6003

Address: Nishi-Ogu 6-35-11, Arakawa-ku. Arakawa Ward is located just outside the Yamanote Line, above Ueno.

Transportation: The coolest way to get to the park is by the Toden Arakawa Streetcar, the last remaining streetcar in Tokyo. The train starts at Waseda or Minowabashi. It is also accessible by bus, by water cruise boat, and by car. Reasonable parking is available nearby.

49. Museum Review: Setagaya Art Museum

2007-09-28T11:57:00.000+09:00

The Setagaya Art Museum, which opened in 1986, claims to give emphasis to art that 'exhibits the quality of naivety'. They also make a special effort to exhibit works from artists living in Setagaya Ward.

'Shinzo Fukuhara: Art and Shiseido' is the current special exhibition, running from September 1 to November 4. The exhibition was very interesting, and larger than I expected.

In the Permanent Collection, 'Gifts from the World of Dreams : Georges Rouault, Odilon Redon, Kiyoshi Hasegawa, Tetsuro Komai' is running from August 11 to December 2.

If you plan to visit this museum, I recommend packing a picnic lunch and taking some time to enjoy Kinuta Koen (park). Famous for magnolia trees, it is a huge park full of grassy lawns, forests, even a bird sanctuary. Bicycles can be borrowed free of charge.

Address: 1-2 Kinuta-koen, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 157-0075

About a ten minute walk from Yoga Station on the Tokyu Shin-Tamagawa Line.

Phone: 03-3415-6011

Hours of Operation: 10:00 - 18:00. (Opening hours may be extended during certain exhibitions.) It is necessary to enter the building at least 30 minutes before closing time.
Closed on Mondays (or the following day if Monday falls on a holiday) and the New Year's holiday.

(Both the permanent and temporary exhibition space may be closed during display changes. )

Admission:

Permanent Collection: General 200yen
College and high school students 150yen
Junior high & elementary school students and those over 65 100yen
* Junior high & elementary school students are free on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays

For Special Exhibition: Charges are determined separately for each exhibition.

48. Garden Review: Midtown Garden & Hinokicho Park (Roppongi)

2007-09-28T11:55:00.001+09:00

Midtown Garden and Hinokicho Park make up 40% of total area of the Tokyo Midtown complex. The architects of Tokyo Midtown did an excellent job creating a true oasis in the heart of Roppongi.

Once part of the Japanese Self Defence Agency, Midtown Garden contains over 140 trees from the former site. The garden contains huge grassy lawns, a playground, walking paths, fountains, sculptures, and even a mini basketball court. For those who want to work outside, there are wireless LAN access points.

Hinokicho Park was once a garden attached to the residence of the Mori family, part of the Hagi Clan of the Edo Period. Hinoki means 'cypress tree', and there are many on the grounds. The trees and greenery surround a small pond fed by a bubbling stream, which is overlooked by a traditional Japanese teahouse.
If you visit Tokyo Midtown make sure you take some time to relax in the garden. You won't believe that the dirt, grime, and noise of Roppongi is right around the corner.

47. Sightseeing Spot Review: Tokyo Midtown (Akasaka)

2007-09-28T11:52:00.000+09:00

Tokyo Midtown, located on 569,000 square meters of land, consists of six main buildings filled with stores, restaurants, offices, a hotel, condominiums, museums, and more.

Previously home to the Japan Defense Agency, some of its current tenants include: Konami, Yahoo! Japan, Fujifilm/Fuji Xerox, and Cisco Japan. There is also a medical clinic associated with John Hopkins Hospital, and a 250-room Ritz Carlton Hotel is located on the 47th through 53rd floors of the Midtown Tower.
The Galleria, the main attraction of Tokyo Midtown, consists of five floors of stores and restaurants. The new Suntory Museum is also located here (see review #46 for details), in addition to Design Sight 21_21 - an exhibition gallery (free) and research workshop. Fuji Film / Fuji Xerox have two excellent photography galleries (also free) with often changing exhibitions.

Behind the entire complex is a beautiful 10 acre public park (see review #48).

I like Tokyo Midtown much more that Roppongi Hills. It is much easier to navigate and the stores are more appealing, especially those related to home interior. The restaurant selection is extensive - I was especially impressed with the selection of delicious, inexpensive choices below ground. Many of the more expensive restaurants upstairs have at least some 'open-air' dining, and they have great lunch deals.

http://www.tokyo-midtown.com/en/index.html

46. Museum Review: Suntory Museum of Art (Roppongi)

2007-09-28T11:51:00.000+09:00

Recently moved to its new location in Tokyo Midtown, the Suntory Museum of Art has been around since 1961. It's theme has always been based on 'Art in Life'. Their collection of over 3000 pieces includes lacquer ware, ceramics, paintings, glass, textiles, metal works, and more. Everything is 'connected to Japanese life', including their famous collection of hairdressing articles.

The museum entrance is located on Midtown's 3rd floor. Once tickets have been purchased, visitors are sent up an elevator to the 4th floor. The exhibition rooms have black walls, high ceilings, wood floors, black benches, and dim lighting. Leading down to the 3rd floor is a beautiful wood and glass staircase which is back lit by light seeping through a wall of vertical wood boards. The ceiling in this room are two stories high. I was impressed with the design and 'feel' of the museum.

(Sept. 1 to Oct. 21) The exhibition that I saw was called 'Biombo', the name for Japanese folding screens in Spanish and Portuguese. Some of the screens exhibited had been gifts to foreign governments, others came from private collections. They were some of the most magnificent and unique screens that I had ever seen. I cannot recommend this exhibition strongly enough!

Future exhibitions:

(Nov. 3 to Dec. 16) National Treasure: Choju-Jinbutsu-Giga Emaki (frolicking animals and figures), four famous screens from Kosanji Monastery in Kyoto and related articles.

(Dec. 23 to Jan. 14) 'Wa-mode' - the elegant costumes of Japanese women

(Jan. 26 to Mar. 9) Works of Toulouse-Lautrec, a leading Parisian artist from the late 1800's.

The museum was larger than I expected, and the exhibit was superb. I would definitely recommend the museum for those who visit Tokyo Midtown.

On the 3rd floor, beside the ticket desk, is a small museum shop and also a cafe. The cafe is run by 'Fumuro-ya', an establishment from Kanazawa that dates back to 1865. They specialize in 'Kaga-fu' (Kaga style wheat-gluten cakes) which were originally a meat substitute for Buddhist priests.

Address: Tokyo Midtown Gardenside 9-7-4 Akasaka, Minato-ku 107-8643

Hours of Operation: Sundays, Mondays, and National Holidays 10:00 - 18:00
Wednesday to Saturday 10:00-20:00
Closed on Tuesdays, New Year's Day, and during exhibition preparation periods. If Tuesday is a national holiday, it is closed the following day.

Admission varies by exhibition. Free admission for junior high students and younger.

45. Park Review: Senzokuike (Ota-ku)

2007-09-25T17:12:00.001+09:00

Senzokuike is one of those little Tokyo gems that I had never heard about, instead I just stumbled upon it. 'Ike' means pond, and Senzokuike is a lovely pond in Ota-ku, right near the borders of Setagaya, Meguro, and Shinagawa Wards.

A shaded walking path surrounds the pond. Along the way there is a playground for kids, a library, a restaurant overlooking the water, swan and row boats for rent, picnic tables, boardwalks over the water, a temple, and a shrine. There is also lots and lots of green, and no tall buildings will remind you that you are actually still in Tokyo.

I was lucky enough to find Senzokuike during the annual festival of Senzokuike Hachimangu Shrine, which was September 8th and 9th. Jindai-kagura (a sacred dance) was performed from 7pm on the 8th.

On the 9th, the shrine's mikoshi (portable shrines) were paraded around the local neighborhood from 8:30am, and returned to the shrine around 7pm. Kasai-bayashi (festival music) was also played on the 9th, from 2pm. 60 open-air food and game stalls were set up on both days.

I was able to enjoy the music and the open-air stalls. Most of the people at the festival were locals, and the atmosphere was very friendly.

Visiting Senzokuike during the festival is certainly best, but I recommend going anytime you just need a bit of nature, but don't have time to visit the countryside. Walk the circumference of the lake, have lunch on a deck overlooking the pond, and explore a bit in a paddle boat. An inexpensive and enjoyable way to spend a day in Tokyo.

Address: Minami Senzoku, Ota-ku.
5-min. walk from Senzokuike Station on the Tokyu Ikegami Line.

44. Sightseeing Spot Review: Ome

2007-09-25T17:11:00.003+09:00

Located 70 km west of Tokyo, on the upper reaches of the Tama River, the town of Ome is virtually unheard of by foreigners in Japan. Most people in Tokyo only stop in Ome to change trains on their way to the popular Okutama area. This is a mistake, as Ome is also a great sightseeing spot!

According to legend, in the year 900, a prince fled to the district of Ome with the aid of a plum tree cane. The cane took root, and the fruit on the tree it became always stayed blue. So, the area was named 'Ome' which means 'blue Japanese apricot'. There is a famous plum tree garden, 'Yoshino Baigo', which is best visited from the end of February to the middle of March when the blossoms are in full bloom. I have not visited this garden, but I hope to in the future.
More interesting to me was the area just around Ome Station. The main street is lined with homes and businesses dating back to the early Showa Era. Many are decorated with huge paintings of movie posters from that time. Most advertise Japanese movies, but there are also Japanese ads for 'Bonnie and Clyde', 'Tarzan Returns', and more.

There are three wonderful 'mini' museums also on the main street. One is dedicated to the artist who painted the murals and was also the creator of a some famous animation characters. Right next door is a 'retro' museum full of daily goods from the Meiji era - kids toys, drink bottles, matchbooks, toiletries,... the list goes on and on. It was like stepping back in time, especially for my Japanese husband. He was so excited, "Ooh, I used to drink that, I had that toy,...".

The third museum, 'Retro Diorama World' was the best. It was a very small museum showcasing the handmade dioramas of the artist, Takaki Yamamoto. Depicting scenes from the Meiji Era, they were absolutely incredible. Check this website to get a look at some of his work: http://www.hiyori-geta.com/ The museum is open from 10:00 - 17:00, closed on Mondays. The entrance fee is 200 yen.

Also on the main street is a small shrine which happened to be holding a small crafts fair the day I visited. Also nearby, there is a small glass art gallery, a temple, and a railroad park with model train sets as well as old steam locomotives and carriages.

Nothing is in English in this town and you will probably be the only foreign tourists there. But, everything can be enjoyed without translations. I plan on going back when the weather is cooler. A tourist information desk hands out hand drawn maps that are easy to follow without being able to read. I'd like to try the walking courses they recommend.

Getting there: Take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku, it takes exactly one hour if you get on one of the express trains that does not end in Tachikawa.

Japanese only website: http://www.city.ome.tokyo.jp/

43. Museum Review: Okura Shukokan Museum (Minato-ku)

2007-09-25T17:11:00.001+09:00

Kihachiro Okura, a collector of Buddhist artwork established the Okura Shukokan Museum of Fine Arts to hold and display his treasures. Kihachiro was a weapons dealer in the mid-1800's. He later founded the Okura zaibatsu, and the Tokyo University of Economics. He was also one of the main investors for the original Imperial Hotel. His son, Kishichiro Okura, was the president of the hotel during the 1920's and 30's. Kishichiro also developed the Okura hotel chain, and he collected many 'Nihonga' (modern Japanese painting), which were added to the museum collection.
Opening in 1917 as Japan's first private art museum, the Okura Shukokan houses over 2,000 works of art. Built on land that was formerly the Tokyo residence of the Matsudaira feudal lord of Naebashi, the building itself was designed by Chuta Ito and is a nationally registered cultural property.

Although I find the building itself absolutely beautiful, I think 800 yen is too much to charge for an exhibition of this size. The museum has two floors, and each floor is a large room with art around the edges. The exhibition I visited was called "Longing for Asia", and it included many Buddhist statues, a few Chinese paintings, and a selection of pottery. Although I'm sure the items are historically significant, I didn't find the exhibit that interesting.

Fortunately, I didn't have to pay the entrance fee as this museum is free with the Grutt Pass. I would definitely recommend visiting the museum if you have the pass. Perhaps a future exhibition will be more interesting (the next one focuses on hanging scrolls), and the building is definitely worth taking a look at.

There is also a path that runs around the museum. Large sculptures, lanterns, Buddhist statues,... are on display and it is not necessary to pay in order to view them. Guests of the Okura Hotel, which is right in front of the museum, can visit the museum for free.

Address: 2-10-3 Toranomon, Minato-ku
Phone: 03-3583-0781

Hours of Operation: 10:00 - 16:30 (last entry at 16:00)

Closed on Mondays (except when Monday is a national holiday, then it is closed the next day) and for the New Year's holidays.

Admission: Free for hotel guests
Prices vary depending on the exhibition.
Currently (Sept. 07): Adults: 800 yen. College & High School students & those over 65: 500yen.
Junior school students & younger - free

http://www.okura.com/tokyo/info/shukokan.html

**Free with the Grutt Pass 2007 (#28).

42. Museum Review: Shinjuku Historical Museum (Shinjuku)

2007-09-25T17:10:00.001+09:00

The Shinjuku Historical Museum is a dedicated to the history of Shinjuku Ward. There are artifacts and pottery from archaeological digs, art depicting Shinjuku in the Edo period, writings by famous people born in Shinjuku,... If for no other reason, visit this museum to see the huge model of Shinjuku as a post town in the Edo era. It was fantastic! I was also impressed by the life-sized Edo era store, trolley car, and a re-creation of rooms from a Japanese home.There is also a small garden outside the museum, a historical library, and an auditorium that can be rented by the public when not in use.Unfortunately, there is no English information. Luckily, many of the exhibits are enjoyable and understandable without translation.

Admission: 300 yen, elementary and Jr. high students 100 yen.

Address: San-ei-cho 22, Shinjuku-ku

7 minutes walk from Yotsuya Sanchome or Akebonobashi Station.

Phone: 03-3359-2131

Hours of Operation: 9:00 - 17:00, closed on Mondays.

http://www.shinjukuku-kankou.jp/english/map_index.html

**Free with the Grutt pass 2007 (#37)

41. Garden Review: Kiyosumi Teien (Koto-ku)

2007-09-25T15:35:00.000+09:00

The Kiyosumi Gardens were originally the residence of Kinokuniya Bunzaemon, a powerful businessman of the Edo period. In 1721, the estate became the second residence of a feudal lord named Kuze-Yamatonokami. Some of the garden was created at that time. In 1878, it was purchased by the founder of the Mitsubishi Financial Group, Iwasaki Yataro. Mr. Iwasaki expanded the garden and a large pond was created. He wanted a place to host company employees and guests of honor.

Water was drawn from the Sumida River to make the pond, and stones were collected from all over Japan. Some of the stones were placed in the water to form pedestrian bridges, 'ishi-watari'. A lovely 'ryotei', or traditional Japanese restaurant, was made the focal point.

In the back of the garden, there is also a lovely wooded picnic area. In 1932, the garden was donated to the city of Tokyo.

I was very impressed with this garden. There are a number of viewpoints from which no tall buildings can be seen. It is not well known, so it is usually very peaceful. The gardening is immaculate and the stepping stones are enjoyable to walk along. I definitely recommend a visit to this garden. For a pleasant day of sightseeing, start at this garden. Walk down the main street to the Fukagawa Edo Museum. Continue on to MOT, and then take a walk around Kiba Koen. Or wander along some of the waterways that criss-cross Koto-ku.

Admission: 150 yen, 70 yen for those over 65 years old. Children under 12 and Jr. high students living or attending school in Tokyo are free.

Hours of Operation: 9:00 - 17:00

Closed during the New Years holidays

Address: 3-3-9 Kiyosumi, Koto-ku, Tokyo
Phone: 03-3641-5892

Access: 3 minutes walk from Kiyosumi-shirakawa Station of the Toei Oedo Line and Hanzomon Line.

40. Park Review: Kiba Koen (Koto-ku)

2007-09-25T15:14:00.000+09:00

Kiba Koen (Park) is a huge and wonderful green oasis hidden among the flat, grid-like concrete streets of Koto-ku. It is not a sightseeing destination, but it is a great place for picnicking, throwing a Frisbee, or just running around in the grass. The park contains tennis courts, a open space for playing sports, a BBQ area, a flower garden, a large grassy lawn, playgrounds, a walking/cycling course,... A large pedestrian bridge breaks the park into two halves. MOT, the Museum of Contemporary Art - Tokyo, is located in the northern end of the park. The Fukagawa Edo Museum and Kiyosumi Garden are also nearby.

Access: 2 minute walk from Kiba Station. Paid parking is available in the southern end of the park, and at MOT.

39. Museum Review: MOT - Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (Koto-ku)

2007-09-20T20:20:00.000+09:00

I have never been a fan of museums with 'contemporary' in their titles because they are usually full of abstract art (of which I am not a fan). I made the decision to visit MOT because of a special exhibition of art by Kazuo Oga, the man behind the stunning animation art in 'Princess Mononoke', 'Howl's Moving Castle', 'Totoro',... It was a good decision.
I was pleasantly surprised by this museum. Located in a part of town not known for its architectural design, this is a beautiful building. Huge white rooms lit by natural skylights are mixed with natural wood and massive stone blocks. I agree with the museum's brochure that says 'the space itself is part of the art'.

The temporary exhibition gallery was also much larger than I expected. There were hundreds of examples of Kazuo Oga's art, spread out over two entire floors. In addition, there were films, places to take your photo with blown up copies of some of his work, a Totoro origami workshop,... I thought it was well worth the 1,100 yen exhibition fee.
With everyone viewing Oga's work, the permanent collection gallery was practically empty. Along with the standard abstract work that I do not really appreciate, there were a number of very interesting exhibits and displays that I did find very interesting. And, the museum has a number of pieces by famous foreign artists (Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein,...)

Currently the star attraction is a monstrous (and monster filled) work called 'Myth of Tomorrow' by Taro Okamoto. A very bizarre abstract, the sheer size of the piece was impressive. There are also many outdoor sculptures in the museum grounds.

In addition to the museum exhibitions; there is a restaurant, cafe, museum shop, art library, Internet cafe, and AV Gallery.

I would recommend a visit to this museum, even if your only purpose is to check out the architecture. Visit on a day the weather is nice and have a picnic in just outside in Kiba Koen (park).

**Advice concerning special exhibitions at any Japanese museums: Do not, under any circumstances, visit a special exhibition right when it opens or right before it closes. Also, don't visit on a Sunday or national holiday. Even Saturdays are mobbed. I arrived 15 minutes after the museum opened on a Thursday, there were already hundreds of people crammed into the exhibit, all of them lined up to look at each and every piece. As it was early, I just skipped the first two rooms and things thinned out. Unfortunately, this only works if you arrive just after the museum opens.

Hours of Operation: 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry at 17:30).

Closed on Mondays (the next day if Monday is a national holiday).

Admission for the permanent collection: Adults - 500 yen, University students - 400 yen, High school and adults over 65 - 250 yen. Jr. high students and younger are free.

There are discounts for groups over 20.

Address: Metropolitan Kiba Park, 4-1-1 Miyoshi, Koto-ku 135-0022

Phone: 03-5245-4111

Access: There are a number of subways stops nearby (Kiyosumi-shirakawa, Kiba, Kikukawa,...). There are also buses from Tokyo and Kinshicho Stations, and paid parking is available.

Website: http://www.mot-art-museum.jp/

**Free entry to the permanent collection with the Grutt Pass 2007 (#41).

**Grutt Pass also has a discount coupon for special exhibitions.

38. Museum Review: Basho Museum (Koto-ku)

2007-09-20T19:59:00.000+09:00

Matsuo Basho is one of Japan's most famous poets; he is credited with establishing the present form of haiku, and for helping haiku become accepted as a major literary genre.

A small museum was opened in 1981 to exhibit artifacts related to Basho and to other writers of haiku. The museum was built on land that once held a cottage that Basho used as the base for his journeys around Japan.

Unfortunately, to enjoy this museum, you must be able to read Japanese fluently. Most of the displays are haiku, but there are no English translations.
There is a small garden outside the museum. If you are in the neighborhood, walk up through it to the riverside, then take a short walk to the left. There is a nice memorial to Basho with good views of the Sumida River and some of the river's famous bridges.

Hours of Operation: 9:30 - 17:00. Closed on Mondays and from Dec. 28 to Jan. 4.

Address: Tokiwa 1-6-3, Koto-ku. About 7 minutes walk from Morishita Station on the Oedo Shinjuku Line.

Phone: 03-3631-1448

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#40)

37. Garden Review: Kyu-Yasuda Garden (Sumida-ku)

2007-09-20T19:28:00.000+09:00

In the late 1600's, the Kyu-Yasuda Garden was a feudal lord's residence. The pond was famous because it was fed by the Sumida River. With the Sumida's proximity to the ocean, the water level in the pond rose and fell with the tides (although still fed by the Sumida, the water level no longer fluxuates in the garden).
Later the land was owned by Zenjiro Yasuda who granted it to the public after his death in 1922. Unfortunately it was destroyed by the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, but was renovated afterwards and opened as a park in 1927. Post WWII development polluted the Sumida River and the grounds of the garden were greatly affected, but they were restored again in 1971. Unlike most of the gardens around Tokyo, Kyu Yasuda Garden is a public park and admission is free. That said, I wouldn't recommend going out of my way to visit it. It is nice, but it is small and not so special. However, if you are visiting the Edo-Tokyo Museum or going to a Sumo tournament and you want to eat a picnic lunch outdoors, this is the spot.

Address: 12 Yokoami, Sumida-ku (Just behind Ryogoku Station).

Open everyday 9:30 - 16:30. Closed Dec 29 - Jan 1.

36. Museum Review: Edo-Tokyo Museum (Sumida-ku)

2007-09-20T18:32:00.000+09:00

If you've ever traveled by boat up the Sumida River to Asakusa, you probably caught a glimpse of this huge, strange-looking museum. The building is actually modeled after a traditional warehouse with elevated floors. If you haven't visited it yet, make sure that you do!

The Edo-Tokyo Museum, as the name indictes, is all about the history and culture of Tokyo (once called 'Edo'). The exhibitions are excellent, and most are labeled in English. Many even have lengthy explanations.

What makes this museum so special is that it combines regular exhibits with lots of life-sized recreations; elaborate models, and a number of 'hands-on' exhibits.

Upon purchasing your ticket outside on the main (3rd floor) terrace, take the escalators up to the 5th floor. As soon as you enter the permanent exhibition space, you must walk across a replica of the original Nihonbashi (bridge). Looking down from the bridge, visitors can see life-sized replicas of a traditional Japanese theater and one of Tokyo's first Western style buildings. It is all quite impressive.

Across the bridge is 'The Edo Zone', with miniture recreations of Edo Castle and the city plan of Edo (and, of course, much more). Downstairs, 'The Edo Zone' continues with topics like: commerce, culture, daily living, amusement quarters,...

Also downstairs is 'The Tokyo Zone' which focuses on the changes that the city underwent during the 1900's - topics include: the industrial revolution, the Great Kanto Earthquake, Air raids and black markets,...

Keep an eye out for special exhibitions as well. If it is on the 5th floor, there is no extra charge. But if it is on the first floor, visitors must pay extra.

There are a number of restaurants and cafes within the museum grounds, but re-entry to the museum on the day of purchase is also ok (but make sure you get a 're-entry' ticket before you exit). I recommend trying one of the local 'chanko-nabe' restaurants nearby. The food of Sumo wrestlers, it is a very hearty and delicious stew. Many places offer a lunch serving for around 1000 yen.

If you are interested in a guide, portable English audio equipment is free (with a 1000 yen refundable deposit) or try one of the volunteer English guides. It is best to call ahead and make a reservation or they might not be available.

If I had to recommend only one museum to foreigners visiting Tokyo, this would be my choice. Even for those with short stays, it is a great way to familiarize oneself with this great city. For those with a bit of time, expect to spend at least half a day here.

Hours of Operation: 9:30 - 17:30, Saturday 9:30 - 19:30.
Closed on Mondays except during Sumo tournaments in the Kokugi-kan. When Monday is a holiday, closed the next day. Also closed from December 28 to January 1.

Admission: Adults: 600 yen, University students: 480 yen, Jr. high and high school students: 300 yen, and adults over 65: 300 yen. *There are discounts for groups of 20 or more.

**Elementary school children and younger are free. Jr. high & high school students who are residents of Tokyo are also free.

Address: 1-4-1 Yokoami, Sumida-ku 130-0015. Just outside Ryogoku Station.
Paid parking is available.

Phone: 03-3626-9974

Website: http://www.edo-tokyo-museum.or.jp/

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#39), + discount ticket for special exhibitions.

35. Garden Review: Kyu Shiba-rikyu Garden (Minato-ku)

2007-09-18T16:19:00.000+09:00

The Kyu Shiba-rikyu Garden was built on reclaimed land in the Edo period. The 4th Shogun, Tokugawa Ietsuna gave the land to Lord Okubo Tadatomo to use as his Tokyo residence. It went through a variety of owners until it was sold to the Imperial Household Agency in 1875. The Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 destroyed all the buildings and nearly all the trees. The garden was restored, and in 1924 it was opened to the public. It is one of two surviving feudal era Japanese gardens in Tokyo.The Kyu Shiba-Rikyu Garden is a landscape garden built with a circular walking trail so that visitors can enjoy it from a variety of angles. The garden's focus is Sensui Pond, which takes up almost 1/4 of the total area of 43,070 m. Originally it was a salt water pond, but was converted to fresh water after additional land reclamation nearby. Many hungry carp now make the pond their home. In addition, there are man-made hills, a large stone lantern, islands connected by bridges, grassy picnic areas, and a lovely wisteria trellis.

The downside of the garden is that is is surrounded by a number of tall buildings, and a particularly ugly neon coffee billboard. But, it is always quiet, is well tended, and the entrance fee is only 150 yen. I do find it to be a pleasant oasis,and I especially recommend stopping here if you are walking to Hinode Pier from Hamamatsu or Daimon Station.

34. Museum Review: Tobacco & Salt Museum (Shibuya)

2007-09-12T12:33:00.000+09:00

Located right in the middle of Shibuya, I've walked by the 'Tobacco and Salt Museum' many times and never even realized it was there. It was founded in November 1978 by the Japan Tobacco and Salt Public Corporation (the predecessor of Japan Tobacco Inc.) which monopolized the production and sale of tobacco and salt.

Upon entry, I was extremely surprised that the place was full of kids. Who takes their children to a tobacco museum? Obviously, lots of Japanese people do. I will admit that with the exception of the glorification of smoking tobacco, it is an interesting and informative museum.

There are four floors to the museum. On the 1st floor is the reception desk, auditorium, lounge corner, and museum shop. On the 2nd floor, the route of tobacco is traced around the world, and the history of tobacco in Japan is presented. There is almost no English, but the displays are really interesting. We enjoyed the cigarette packet designs, and the life sized re-creation of a traditional Japanese tobacco store from the Edo era.

The 3rd floor focuses on Japanese and foreign salt; production, natural forms,... The 4th floor is a special exhibition hall for a constantly changing series of exhibitions on themes relating to tobacco and salt. There were some science experiments going on there when we visited.Should you take your kids to this museum? I wouldn't necessarily recommend it. But, for adults wandering around Shibuya (especially smokers), it is an interesting and inexpensive way to spend an hour.

Entrance fees: 100 yen, 50 yen for children high school age and younger

Hours of Operation: 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:30). Closed on Mondays. If the Monday is a national holiday, closed the next day. Also closed Dec. 29 through Jan. 3.

Address: Jinnan 1-16-8, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0041

The museum is close to Parco on Koen-Dori (street), just across from the Tobu Hotel

Phone: 03-3476-2041

http://www.jti.co.jp/Culture/museum/Welcome.html

33. Museum Review: Shinagawa Historical Museum (Shinagawa-ku)

2007-08-09T14:22:00.000+09:00

The Shinagawa Rekishikan (Shinagawa Historical Museum) collects and preserves materials that pertain to the culture and history of Shinagawa, and also preserves the city archives. In addition to the museum itself, there is a traditional Japanese tea room, a study, and a Japanese-style garden.
The museum is not very large, but the presentation of exhibits is excellent. Unfortunately, there are no English explanations. It is best to visit this museum with someone who can read Japanese. If you live in the Shinagawa area, it is worth 100 yen just to relax in the garden.
Admission: 100 yen for adults, 50 yen for elementary and junior high school students.
Free for senior citizens who are 70 years of age or older and for those who are disabled.
*There is a separate fee for special exhibit periods.

Hours of Operation: 9:00 - 17:00 (last entry at 16:30), closed on Mondays, national holidays, during the year end/New Year holidays, and for exhibition renewals.

Address: 6-11-1 Oi
Phone: 03-3777-4060

Directions: A one minute walk from the Kashima Jinja-mae bus stop, taking the Tokyu bus headed for Ikegami or Kamata from JR/Tokyu/Rinkai Oimachi Station. Or, a 10 minute walk from the Sanno Kitaguchi (North Exit) of JR Omori Station. There are also paid parking lots within easy walking distance.

32. Attraction Review: Tokyo City View (Roppongi)

2007-08-06T17:00:00.000+09:00

An observatory on the 52nd floor of Mori Tower in Roppongi Hills, the 'Tokyo City View' gives a great view of the city, especially at night. A 360 degree view from 250 meters above sea level, it is quite breath-taking.

If you are willing to pay the price, I recommend the Tokyo City View over the Tokyo Tower. It always seems to be less crowded, it is more stylish, and there are lots of places to sit and really get a good look at the city. Go right at sundown for the best views.

Inside, the 'Sunset Cafe' serves coffee, tea, juice, beer,... There is also the 'Mado Lounge' - haven't been inside, but it looks pretty fancy. They regularly have live music and special events, and I believe it is available for private parties (although I bet the cost is pretty high).

Hours of Operation: 9:00 to 1:00 am, open everyday

Admission: Adults 1,500 yen, high school and college students 1,000 yen, children 500 yen.

For English Information: http://www.tokyocityview.com/en/index.html

31. Museum Review: Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography (Meguro-ku)

2007-03-26T20:01:00.000+09:00

The Metropolitan Museum of Photography is hidden behind the Yebisu Garden Place Tower. If you weren't looking for it, you wouldn't notice it. That said, you should set out to visit this museum!

Exhibits change continuously, so it is important to check the website. I was there to see two exhibits: 1) Tokyo seen by Magnum Photographers - an excellent collection of Tokyo photographs, taken by famous foreign photographers (1000 yen).
2) Yoakemae - a collection of photos taken during the final years of the Edo Period (1603-1867) and the first half of the Meiji Era (1868 - 1912). 180 photographs, mostly portraits and scenes. For those interested in Japanese history, this exhibit was especially great (500 yen).

This is an excellent photography museum. As a history and photography enthusiast, this is the museum that I will visit more often than any other in Tokyo.

Each exhibit is priced differently, usually between 500 yen and 2000 yen.

Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography
Yebisu Garden Place, Mita 1-13-3, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-0062

Phone: 03-3280-0099

Hours of Operation:
10:00-18:00 (Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday)
10:00-20:00 (Thursday, Friday)
Closed on Mondays (Tuesday, if Monday is a national holiday), and New Year's holiday.

Admission Fees: Varies depending upon exhibition or screening.
*Elementary school children and younger are usually free. Check at the information counter.

The museum is located in Yebisu Garden Place.

Transportation: 7 min. walk from east exit of JR Ebisu Station, via the Sky Walk.
7 min. walk from the bus stops at Ebisu 1-chome and Ebisu 4-chome (the #87 Shibuya - Tamachi route city bus).

http://www.syabi.com/

**Free entry to certain exhibitions with Grutt Pass 2007 (#24)

30. Garden Review: Koishikawa Botanical Garden (Bunkyo-ku)

2007-03-23T22:38:00.004+09:00

The Koishikawa Botanical Garden was first established in 1684 as the Koishikawa Medicinal Herb Garden by Tsuneyoshi Tokugawa, the 5th Tokugawa Shogun. In 1877, shortly after the Meiji Restoration, it became a garden of the Tokyo Imperial University (now Tokyo University) and has been (and still is) used for botanical research. There are over 4000 plant species here, and the greenhouse still contains medicinal plants dating back to the Edo Period.

The garden is especially famous for its plum and cherry blossoms. It is not a well known garden, so crowds are usually minimal. I found it to be a very lovely park, well worth a visit.Admission: 330 yen

Closed on Mondays (or Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday) and Dec. 29 - Jan. 3.
The greenhouse is only open from 13:00 - 15:00 on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Hours of Operation: 9:00 - 16:30 (last entry at 16:00)

Address: 3-7-1 Hakusan, Bunkyo-ku

Transportation: A short walk from Myogadani Station (Marunouchi Line) or Hakusan Station (Toei Mita Line).

29. Temple Review: Gokoku-ji (Bunkyo-ku)

2007-03-22T21:54:00.000+09:00

Gokoku-ji Temple was built in 1681 by the 5th Tokugawa Shogun, Tsunayoshi. It was built at the request of his mother, Keishoin. Spared from earthquakes, fires, and WWII; the main temple (Kannon-do) is designated as important cultural properties of Japan.A large cemetery, Toshimagaoka, surrounds the temple. The Emperor Meiji declared Gokoku-ji the Imperial mausoleum in 1873. Several of his children, and Emperor Meiji himself, are buried there.

Gokoku-ji also oversees the practice of Japanese tea ceremony in all the country's temples. On the day I visited, there were many women visitors in kimono.

The temple was built on the top of a hill and it is said that there was once a nice view of Edo Castle from its grounds. Now the view is of office buildings down Otowa-dori.

This temple is not a famous tourist spot, very few foreigners have even heard of it. I would recommend visiting the temple, then take a walk downhill through Meijirodai and Sekiguchi, until you reach the Four Seasons Hotel and their magnificent garden.

An antique/flea market is held on the grounds of Gokoku-ji on the second saturday of each month, from 7:00 - 16:00

Access: Gokokuji Sta. on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line
5-40-1 Otsuka, Bunkyo-ku
Phone: 03-3941-0764

http://www.kotoku-town.com/special/8/gokokuji (Japanese only)

28. Museum Review: Miraikan (Odaiba)

2007-03-22T21:26:00.000+09:00

The Miraikan is my favorite new discovery, what an excellent museum! Mirai means future, and the Miraikan is Tokyo's 'National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation'. The building itself is gorgeous, and it is filled with an overwhelming amount of stimulating scientific information.

There are exhibits on the 1st, 3rd, and 5th floors, and on the 6th is a dome theater, 'Gaia'. The showpiece of the museum is the large globe, suspended from the ceiling, made of a million LED's. The 1st floor exhibition space is currently under renovation.

The 3rd floor exhibits are divided into two topics: 'Inovation & the Future' and 'Information Science & Technology for Society'.

The 5th floor exhibits are also divided into two topics: 'Life Science' and 'The Earth Environment & Frontiers'. There is an in depth focus on 'green' technology.
I am not going to even try to describe what you'll see. You just have to go there for yourself. If you have any interest in science, you'll be here all day. Even if you hate science, you'll probably change your mind after one visit to the Miraikan.

Extremely knowledgable volunteers are on hand to explain all of the displays and to help with the interactive exhibits. I do not know if they speak any English. But, no matter, everything in the museum is explained in depth, in both Japanese and English.
I would recommend this museum for Jr. high students and older, the subject matter was quite sophisticated. I saw some college students picking the brains of the volunteers, one young woman was taking pages of notes! That said, the elementary school kids that I saw were also really enjoying themselves. Especially in the robot making department above!

Reservations are required for the 112 seat dome theater. Pick up a numbered ticket at the ticket machine on the 6th floor. As soon as you arrive in the museum, go straight to the 6th floor and pick up a ticket. I was very disappointed that we were unable to get a reservation, the movie topics looked really interesting. This museum is a 'must see', and its location make it easy and fun to visit. With so many other things to do in Odaiba, it is a great 'day trip' within Tokyo.

Address: 2-41 Aomi, Koto-ku
Phone: 03-3570-9151
Open 10am to 5pm. Closed Tuesdays (except for national holidays)

Admission: Adults 500 yen, children 200 yen (18 and under)

Nearest station: Telecom Center station on the Yurikamome line (A four-minute walk in the direction of Odaiba and the Fuji TV building)

English website:
http://www.miraikan.jst.go.jp/index_e.html

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#45)

27. Museum Review: National Art Center, Tokyo (Roppongi)

2007-03-16T19:55:00.000+09:00

The National Art Center, Tokyo is Japan's first national art museum without a permanent collection. It is the largest exhibition space in Japan with 14,000 square meters, and a total floor space of 48,000 square meters. There are 12 exhibition rooms, and a library with over 50,000 publications. It is a facility especially designed for exhibitions organized by curators and exhibitions presented by artist associations.
It was designed by the famous Japanese architect, Kisho Kurokawa (who is currently running for governor of Tokyo). The curved front is based on "computer-rendered rhythmic images formed by mountains and the seashore." The idea was to balance nature and high technology. For example, glass lets in natural light, but an energy saving design cuts solar heat and UV rays.
Each exhibition is priced separately. I visited the exhibition, 'Paris du monde entier : Artistes étrangers à Paris 1900-2005'.

This exhibition introduced more than 200 works of art from the collections of the Centre Pompidou. The exhibit is said to "explore the significance of artists' activities associated with Paris in the history of modern and contemporary art". I thought it was an excellent exhibit. There were so many works that I was a little overwhelmed, but at least I felt as if I had gotten my moneys worth. This exhibition runs until May 7th.
Admission: Adults 1500 yen, University students 1000 yen, High school 800 yen, free for Jr. high and younger.

Even if you have no interest in art, go and visit the museum. Have a snack or coffee in one of the three cafes, or lunch in the restaurant. Currently there is a free exhibition on Kisho Kurokawa's architectural designs. Although it was all in Japanese, it was fascinating. You do not need to pay anything to enter the building itself, only to enter individual exhibition rooms.

The National Art Center, Tokyo
7-22-2 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-8558
03-5777-8600

Hours of Operation: Most of the exhibitions (and the cafes) are open from 10:00 - 18:00, with last admission at 17:30. Exhibitions organized by The National Art Center stay open until 20:00 on Fridays. The art library opens from 11:00 - 18:00 and the restaurant is open from 10:00 - 22:00. The facility is closed on Tuesdays (unless a national holiday, then closed the next day) and during the New Year's holidays.
Access: Chiyoda Line - Nogazaka Station, exit 6 is directly linked to the center.
Hibiya Line - Roppongi Station, 5 minute walk from exit 4A.
Toei Oedo Line - Roppongi Station, 4 minute walk from exit 7.

Website:
http://www.nact.jp/english/index.html

26. Sightseeing Spot Review: Asakusa

2007-03-16T16:41:00.000+09:00

Asakusa is definitely one of the first destinations for any visitors to Japan, and it is on the list of 'places to see' for all Japanese as well.

Most people are familiar with Asakusa Kannon Temple (Sensoji) and it's famous Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise Dori Street. Inside the grounds of the temple is a 5 story pagoda, Hozomon Gate, the Asakusa Shrine, Nitemmon Gate,... Standards for all visitors to Asakusa.

What is possible to miss is what surrounds the temple. Hours and hours can be spent wandering the many narrow alleys and shopping arcades. This is the Asakusa that I recommend most.
Pick up a map at the information center across the street from the Kaminarimon Gate. Concentrate on the section that is located to the left of the temple grounds. Asakusa 1 chome, Asakusa 2 chome, Nishi Asakusa 2 chome, and Nishi Asakusa 3 chome.

If possible, do a bit of research ahead of time. Some of the shops in this area date back over 200 years, and are still run by the same families. Find out which ones and search them out. Some of the more famous are: the 'Tokiwado' which sells sponge cake filled with sweet bean paste, 'Bunsendo' which sells fans - known for special orders for Kabuki stars, 'Yonoya' which sells boxwood combs,...
Be sure to:

1) Walk the Hanayashiki Street and check out its amusement park that dates to the mid 1800's.
2) Wander Rokko Broadway. Once quite spectacular, it is still fascinating, even if a little seedy. Along this avenue are traditional theaters, strip shows, a huge horse betting establishment,...
3) Get lost in the covered arcades. Eat in one of the tiny family run restaurants filled with locals.
4) Walk to Kappabashi and check out the plastic model food and stores that sell almost every kitchen item imaginable.
Things I have not yet done, but are suggested:

1) Visit the Asakusa Kannon onsen public bath (sento). It is open from 6:30 - 18:00, and costs 700 yen for adults.
2) Explore the Edo-shitamachi Tradition Museum (not far from the corner of Kokusai dori and Kototoi dori).
3) Enjoy the Western style buffet lunch on the 28th floor of the Belvedere Restaurant, in the Asakusa View Hotel. Views of the area are said to be fantastic.

I also recommend traveling to Asakusa by boat up the Sumida River. For more information, see my previous write-up called 'Tokyo Cruise Boat'.

25. Sightseeing Spot Review: Shibamata (NE Tokyo)

2007-03-02T14:53:00.000+09:00

Shibamata is an area of Tokyo made famous by the world's longest running film series, 'Otokowa tsuraiyo', which means 'It's tough being a man'. The 48 films, made between 1968 and 1996, revolved around a main character called 'Tora-san', who was from Shibamata.
The popularity of the films made Shibamata a Japanese tourist destination. The area has a very traditional feel, especially because the Taishakuten Sando (path) leading from the station has changed very little. Shops and restaurants selling kusa-dango (herbal rice cakes), unagi (eel), and other traditional favorites line both sides of the path.
At the end of the street is a famous Nichiren Buddhist Temple called 'Taishakuten', which is over 300 years old. For 400 yen, visitors can view beautiful temple wood carvings depicting scenes from the Lotus Sutra, and can stroll through the Suikeien Garden. Open from 9:00 - 16:00.
Shibamata lies right beside the Edogawa River. Yagiri no Watashibune, the only remaining manually operated ferry service in Tokyo, is located here in a riverside park. It was established in the beginning of the 17th century for farmers to get to their fields on the other side of the river. It can still be ridden for a mere 100 yen one way (50 yen for children). Rental bicycles are also available on weekends from 9:00 - 16:00, adults 400 yen, children 200 yen.
Across from the riverside park is also the Yamamoto-Tei, a semi-Western building built in the beginning of the 20th century. It can be toured for 100 yen, and visitors can also purchase tea and traditional sweets to enjoy while relaxing on tatami overlooking a lovely garden. Closed every 3rd Tuesday.

Also in Shibamata: Tora-san Museum, Shibamata Shichi Fukujin (7 Gods of Good Fortune),...

Shibamata is located in Katsushika-ku (ward), in NE Tokyo. The border with Matsudo City, Chiba, is just across the river.

We drove there, although parking was hard to find. The easiest way there is by train. From Nippori, on the Yamanote Line, take the Keisei Line limited express to Keisei Takasago (11 minutes). Change to the Keisei Kanamachi Line and get off at Shibamata (3 minutes). From Nippori to Shibamata costs 250 yen.

Shibamata is a great day trip when the weather is nice. Combine traditional sightseeing with a riverside picnic (or bicycle ride) for a perfect day!

24. Garden Review: Rikugien (Bunkyo-ku)

2007-02-16T18:19:00.000+09:00

Rikugien is now a garden, but in the early 1700's, it was the residence of the feudal lord, Yoshiyasu Yanagisawa, who was famous for his literary accomplishments. The name Rikugien was taken from the six principles of composing Japanese waka poetry, which was derived from an ancient Chinese book, "Mao Chin".

In 1867, after the Meiji Restoration, the gardens were used as a villa by the Iwasaki family, owners of the Mitsubishi Group. It was also used as a temporary residence of the prime minister before being donated to the city and opening as a public park in 1937.

It is not a very large park, but it is a beautiful one. Walking paths surround a pond with an inlet. It was a nice, quiet retreat, especially if you first explore the traditional shopping area of Sugamo.

Hours of Operation: 9:00 - 17:00

Admission: 300 yen, but elementary school children and under, and those over 65 are free.

Address: 6-16-3 Honkomagome, Bunkyo-ku

The garden is just outside Komagome Station on the Nanboku Line, and is a very short walk from Sugamo Station on the Yamanote Line.

23. Aquarium Review: Aqua Stadium (Shinagawa)

2007-02-14T16:55:00.000+09:00

The Aqua Stadium is a new aquarium in the Shinagawa Prince Hotel Complex. When it first opened, there were a lot of advertisements, it looked great. Don't let the advertisements fool you like they did me. Do not go to this aquarium, you will be very disappointed.

Although it looks larger from the outside, and there is a fancy parking lot,... this is actually a very small aquarium. Most of the space is used for a dolphin performance pool and a sea lion show. The dolphins and trainers were not used to working with one another and the show was not up to par with others I have seen. The sea lion show was also pretty standard.

We visited the dolphin show first as it was about to start when we entered the aquarium. Little did we know that the few tanks we passed on our way there were most of the exhibits. All in all, I was not at all impressed, especially concerning the entrance fee of 1800 yen for adults, 1000 yen for ages 7 to 15, and 600 yen for ages 4 - 6.

One of the advantages stressed by this aquarium is that it is open late, that is the only impressive thing about it.

Hours of Operation: M-F: 12:00 - 22:00, Saturday: 10:00 - 22:00, Sunday and Holidays: 10:00 - 21:00.

Address: Takanawa 4-10-30, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8611, inside the Shinagawa Prince Hotel Complex. Phone: 03-5421-1111

Access: Directly across from Shinagawa Station. They also have a lot of paid parking.

22. Museum Review: Asakura Choso Museum (Yanaka)

2007-02-14T15:26:00.000+09:00

Fumio Asakura (1883 - 1964) was a pioneer of Japanese modern sculpture. The building which houses the Asakura Choso Museum was his own studio and residence. It took almost seven years to complete in 1935.

Yanaka is my favorite Tokyo neighborhood. If you come to explore the area, make a stop at the museum. Asakura-san's sculptures are excellent, I especially liked his collection of cats. But again, I was more interested in the building itself. Half traditional Japanese and half modern, I just really enjoyed being able to wander around as if it were my own.
If you do visit, make sure to go up to the rooftop garden. There are good views of Yanaka from here, and also a nice overhead view of the Japanese garden the residence is built around.
This is a small museum, but if you are in Yanaka for sightseeing, I do recommend stopping here.

Address: 7-18-10 Yanaka, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0001
Tel: 03-3821-4549

Hours of Operation: 9:30 - 16:30, closed on Mondays and Fridays (open if a national holiday and closed the next day). Also closed from December 29 - January 3, and occasionally for administrative purposes.

Admission: Adults: 400 yen, Jr. High and Elementary School Students: 150 yen
*Group discounts available.
*Free with Grutt Pass.

Access: 5 minute walk from the North Exit of Nippori Station. There is not a lot of parking in this residential area.

For more information: http://www.taitocity.net/taito/asakura

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#10)

21. Museum Review: The National Museum of Western Art (Ueno)

2007-02-14T15:15:00.000+09:00

The National Museum of Western Art was established in 1959 as Japan's premier museum specializing in Western Art. The main building displays pre-18th century paintings and Rodin sculpture. The new wing displays 19th to 20th century paintings, with a focus on French Modern paintings.

I do not have a big interest in Western Art, but I was impressed by this collection. It has some serious works by: Monet, Renoir, Picasso, Van Gogh, Cezanne, Miro',... I especially enjoyed the 'old master' paintings, from Europe's late Medieval period through the end of the 18th century. Many were awe inspiring. All the paintings were labeled in Japanese and English.

If you are interested in Western Art, I do recommend this museum. I went on a cold, rainy day. It was a pleasant way to warm up and learn a little bit about some of history's most famous painters. It may not be the best choice for children as it was extremely quiet, and most would become bored rather quickly.

Address: 7-7 Ueno-koen, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0007
Tel: 03-3828-5131

Hours of Operation: 9:30 - 17:30 (closes at 17:00 in winter, open until 20:00 on Fridays, last admission 30 minutes before closing time). Closed on Mondays (open if a national holiday, closing the next day). Also closed during the New Year's holidays and for exhibition changes.

Admission: Adults: 420 yen, College students: 130 yen, High School: 70 yen.
*Regular admission is free for Jr. High students and younger, and seniors 65 and older.
*Permanent exhibition is free on every 2nd and 4th Saturdays and Culture Day.
*Special exhibitions are charged separately.

20. Museum Review: The Museum of Maritime Science (Odaiba)

2007-02-14T15:01:00.000+09:00

The Museum of Maritime Science is a large museum dedicated to ships and everything related to them. The museum itself was built to look like a ship, and there are a number of real vessels surrounding it, some of which can be boarded and explored.

As a woman, I have never had much of an interest in ships. That said, I still enjoyed the museum . My husband, on the other hand, absolutely loved this museum. The first floor exhibits focus on ship history, design, propulsion, shipbuilding, and marine development. There are some excellent replicas of the most famous ships in history.

The second floor exhibits focus on maritime transportation, ships & seaports, ships & fishing, maritime safety, defending the oceans,...

The third floor exhibits focus on Japanese boats. I really enjoyed these as I am interested in Japanese history. There is also a radio-controlled boat corner, and a replica of a ship's bridge.

Outside the museum is the 'Yotei Maru', a ferry that connected Hokkaido and Honshu for over 20 years. Inside the ship are a 'Sea & Ship World' with some exhibits for children, and 'Seikan World', a re-creation of Aomori Station in the late 1950's.

Beside the 'Yotei Maru' is the 'Soya', a cargo icebreaker built in 1938 and used during WWII. Later it was used as Japan's first Antarctic observation ship. I enjoyed this exhibit most as visitors are able to get a feel of how life on board must have been like for the crew.

There are some basic English descriptions, but most are in Japanese. I was, however, given a very serious guide book that had some more detailed information and lots of photos.

The museum is obviously located waterfront, so there are some fantastic views of Tokyo Bay and of the shipyards nearby.
Most daughters would be bored here, but if you have a son, husband, or boyfriend, that is another story. Especially if they have an interest in boats, or even just in things mechanical.

Address: 3-1 Higashi-Yashio, Shingawa-ku, Tokyo 135-8587.
Tel: 03-5500-1111

Hours of Operation: 10:00 - 17:00, open until 18:00 on weekends and in summer. Closed Dec. 28 - Jan. 1.

Admission: Adults: 1000 yen, children age 5 - Jr. High 600 yen.

For more information: http://ww.funenokagakukan.or.jp/

Access: Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. To get there, take the Yurikamome Monorail from Shimbashi Station to Funenokagakukan Station (16 minutes). Paid parking is also available.

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#44)

19. Museum Review: Matsuoka Museum of Art (Meguro)

2007-02-09T22:38:00.000+09:00

The Matsuoka Museum is the private collection of Mr. Seijiro Matsuoka (1894 - 1989), an entrepreneur. The collection consists mainly of Oriental ceramics and Japanese style paintings. But, there are also French Impressionist paintings, stone figures of Indo-Gandhara, and antiquities of Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The display of stone figures and antiquities is permanent, but the other displays are changed every three to four months.

This is a small museum, but it is well laid out and the collection is interesting. It also looks out over a lovely Japanese garden. I visited this museum in combination with the 'Institute for Nature Study' and the Teien Museum, as they are all within walking distance of one another, and they are all completely different. Have lunch at a cool cafe nearby and you've got yourself a perfect day.

Address: 5-12-6 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0071
Phone: 03-5449-0251

Admission: Adults: 800 yen, Students: 500 yen. Some discounts available.

Hours of Operation: 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry 16:30), closed on Mondays (except national holidays, then closed the next day) and the New Year's holidays. Also closed occasionally for exhibition changes.

Access: 6 minute walk from exit 1 of Shirokanedai Station. This museum is on the backside of the 'Institute for Nature Study' park.

website: http://www.matsuoka-museum.jp/

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#22)

18. Museum Review: Teien Art Museum (Meguro)

2007-02-09T22:16:00.000+09:00

The Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum was once the residence of Prince Asaka, the eighth son of Prince Kuni. He was married to Princess Nobuko, the eighth daughter of Emperor Meiji. The house was built in 1933, in the Art Deco style of the 1920's and 30's. Unlike most museums, this one is itself an art treasure. I visited during the special exhibition, 'Art Deco Jewelry - Charles Jacqueau and the Brilliant Epoch'. The exhibition fit well with the interior of the museum, but I was much more interested in the building than the jewelry. In fact, I highly recommend this museum to everyone, it is not often that 'commoners' get an opportunity to see such a unique and grand residence. The gardens were very nice as well.

Address: 21-9, Shirokanedai 5-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0071

Phone: 03-3443-0201

Hours: 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry 17:30). Closed on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays (unless a national holiday, then closed on Thursday). Also closed during the New Years holidays and for exhibition changes.

Admission: Cost of admission varies according to the nature of each exhibition. A ticket for admission to the museum also covers the garden.

*Admission to the museum is free for the disabled and their helpers, and pre-school aged children.

*School children of all ages (in Tokyo) are admitted for free if they are making an educational visit accompanied by a teacher and museum must be contacted beforehand.

*Adults over 65 may enter for free on the third Wednesday of each month.

*Tickets can be purchased for admission to only the garden, but it is foolish to visit here and skip the museum.

Access: The museum is a 7 minute walk from Meguro Station, or 6 minutes from Shirokanedai Station. It is built in a corner of what is now the 'Institute for Nature Study' (see previous blog).

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#20)

17. Park Review: Institute for Nature Study (Meguro)

2007-02-09T21:56:00.000+09:00

The Institute for Nature Study is part of the National Science Museum. It is the only place left in Tokyo that is reminiscent of the former Musashino Plain. I had no idea that natural forest and wetlands of this size were sitting in the middle of Meguro. Except for the dull noise of traffic, it is easy to forget you are even in Tokyo. The park is home to many different kinds of plants, insects, birds, and other creatures. If you don't have time to leave the city, but you need some 'nature', this is a good place to visit.The park is nothing fancy, just walking trails through the woods and wetlands. For someone who lives in the countryside, nothing special. For someone who lives in the center of Tokyo, it is a nice oasis.

Address: 5-21-5 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0071

Phone: 03-3441-7176

Admission: Adults and College Students: 300 yen.

*Free for children and youths in grades 1 - 12

*Free with the Grutt Pass

Hours: 9:00 - 16:30 (last entry 16:00) from Sept. 1 ~ Apr. 30

9:00 - 17:00 (last entry 16:30) from May 1 ~ Aug. 31

Closed on Mondays (if a national holiday, closed on Tuesday) and closed the day after a national holiday (but remains open on Saturdays and Sundays). Also closed from Dec. 28 - Jan. 4.

Access: 7 minute walk from the east exit of Meguro Station of the Yamanote Line

4 minute walk from exit 1 of Shirokanedai Station of th Namboku and Mita Lines

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#21)

16. Zoo Review: Tama Zoological Park (Hino City)

2007-02-09T18:26:00.000+09:00

The Tama Zoo is a must see! Located in the Tama Hills suburbs of Tokyo, the zoo exhibits are set inside a forest of oak and deciduous trees, which make up 60% of the zoo area. Paved 'trails' run throughout the zoo, up and down hills, around ponds,... You'll not only view animals, you'll get lots of exercise and fresh air as well!

The zoo is very large, the guide map said '52.3 ha'? Almost all of the animals are in very natural habitats, and they all looked very happy and healthy. It is always a good sign when you see a large number of babies. I was especially impressed with the effort made to explain how a zoo operates and why animals are kept the way that they are (unfortunately, these explanations are only in Japanese). For example, there is a single Asian elephant in a smaller, all concrete enclosure. I remarked that compared to the rest of the zoo, it was rather sad.

My husband then read me a sign that explained why. She was alone because her partner of many years had died and she did not like any of the elephants the zoo tried to introduce. She wanted to be alone. The habitat was concrete because elephants feet are very sensitive. If a habitat is not large enough, bacteria builds up and infects their feet. So, concrete is sometimes better than actual dirt. There were signs like this all over the zoo. The only animals that I felt truly sorry for were the rhinoceroses. And, compared to Ueno, they were living in luxury.

There are four zones in the zoo. First, the 'Asian Habitat', with a number of Japanese native animals, tapirs, red pandas, snow leopards, orangutans,... The Orangutan habitat is especially impressive. Huge towers have been constructed, connect by ropes, on which the orangutan can travel from one end of the park to the other. I also was impressed by the birds of prey habitat. Injured birds are brought in and they are given a chance to heal before being released back into the wild. They have a huge cage/dome in which to fly around in. Second, the 'African Habitat', with elephants, zebras, chimpanzees, giraffes, cheetahs, lions,... Special care was taken to keep animals that are naturally in groups together. In this area, the lion exhibit is a standout. It can be viewed from above, or guests can ride the 'Lion Bus' to get an up close and personal look (like driving through a safari park). There is an extra charge for this bus (adults: 350 yen, children 3-15: 100 yen, adults 65 and older: 100 yen). This bus operates from 10:00 - 16:00. The third zone is the 'Australia Habitat', with emus, kangaroos, koalas, kookaburras, and more.

The fourth zone is the 'Insectarium', an indoor natural environment of streams and flowers where butterflies fly freely in front of your face. If you look closely, you might also find beetles, and other bugs hiding among the greenery. We saved this for last and we loved it!

Kids will be thrilled with this zoo, and so will adults. My husband and I were there all day long. We had a great time hiking up and down the hills, waiting to see what was around each corner.

I would recommend bringing a stroller for small children, and parents should be ready for some steep hills. I would also recommend packing a picnic lunch. There is some food available, but there are picnic tables everywhere, if you bring your own lunch, you can just stop whenever you get hungry.

Tama Zoological Park
7-1-1 Hodokubo, Hino-shi, Tokyo 191-0042

Hours of Operation: 9:30 - 17:00 (last entry at 16:00), closed on Wednesday (closed the next day if a national holiday or Tokyo Citizen's Day) and December 29 - January 1.

Admission: Adults: 600 yen, 65 and older: 300 yen, Children 13-15: 200 yen.
*Admission is free for Jr. high students who live or attend school in Tokyo, children 12 and under, the disabled and their helpers.
*Admission is free to everyone on Green Day (April 29), The Zoo's Anniversary (May 5), and Tokyo Citizen's Day (October 1).

**Free entry with Grutt Pass (#55)

15. Museum Review: Fukagawa Edo Museum (Koto-ku)

2007-02-08T11:31:00.000+09:00

The Fukagawa Edo Museum is actually a reproduction of 19th century riverside Edo. Visitors can walk around the narrow 'streets', exploring the shops and homes as they go. It is not a large museum, but it a good way to get a feel for what life was like many years ago in Tokyo.

A large screen on one wall changes colors to imitate different times of the day, mostly sunset. All of the structures can be entered, many of the props inside can be picked up and examined. There is no information in English, but this is not a problem as most of the exhibits are self explanatory.

This is not a museum you can spend the day in, more like an hour. It is, however, located in a part of town that most foreigners never visit. If you decide to visit, wander the main street as it is very quaint. It is even better in September when they hold a scarecrow contest.

Other sightseeing spots nearby include the Kiyosumi Teien (garden) and MOT (the Museum of Contemporary Art, Tokyo). Both have been reviewed on this site.

Address: 1-3-28 Shirakawa, Koto-ku, 135-0021
Tel: 03-3630-8625

Admission: Adults: 300 yen, Jr. high and Elementary School Students: 50 yen.
*No admission allowed to children not accompanied by adults.

Hours of Operation: 9:30 - 17:00 (last entry at 16:30), closed the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month (closed the next day if it is a national holiday). It is also closed around the year end, for changes to the exhibition - 6/12 - 16, and 2/13 - 15, and random maintenance days.

Access: By train - 3 minute walk from Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station (Toei Oedo Line & Hanzomon Line)

Website (Japanese only): http://www.kcf.or.jp/index2.html

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#42)

14. Aquarium Review: Kasai Sea Life Park (Edogawa-ku)

2007-02-08T10:03:00.000+09:00

The Kasai Sea Life Park is located within Kasai Rinkai Koen. If you like aquariums, you won't be disappointed. This aquarium focuses a lot on the oceans surrounding Japan. There main exhibit is a huge, donut-shaped tank filled with bluefin tuna and hammerhead sharks. Interesting to note that the designers of the tank didn't do their fish research. The design was to allow the tuna to travel in a full circle. Unfortunately, tuna like to see what's in front of them, and the narrower 'corners' of the tank didn't allow that. So, the fish constantly have to turn around when reaching those areas. Only an occasional smaller tuna gives the full circle a try!There is a display on the shoreline of the Kanto area, a kelp forest, a focus on the 'Sea of Tokyo',... There are also exhibits focusing on other oceans of the world, and the penguin exhibit is Japan's largest.Upon exiting the main building, I thought I'd seen everything. I was pleasantly surprised by a final exhibit called 'Nature Along the Water's Edge'. In the grounds outside the aquarium, they have recreated a natural setting of streams and freshwater ponds mimicing those found around the Kanto area. There was even a huge grassy lawn where fish kites could be flown. The kites were just laying in the grass for anyone to play with.

I definitely recommend visiting on a sunny day, and combining the aquarium with a picnic in Kasai Rinkai Koen. I wouldn't recommend the aquarium on a really busy day though, as it would be difficult to get a good look into all of the tanks.

Hours of Operation: 9:30-17:00 (last entry at 16:00), closed every Wedneday (changed to Thursday if it is a national holiday or October 1) and from Dec. 29 - Jan. 1.

Admission: Adults:700, Jr. High Students: 250, Seniors 65 and older: 350 yen.

*Disabled, Children under 11, and Jr. High students who reside in/or attend school in Tokyo are free. There are group discounts for groups of over 20.

**Use of strollers may be restricted on peak days.

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#47)

13. Park Review: Kasai Rinkai Koen (Edogawa-ku)

2007-02-07T17:11:00.000+09:00

Kasai Rinkai Koen is a waterfront park along Tokyo Bay, between the Ara River Flood Control Canal and the Edo River. It is also very close to Tokyo Disneyland. The park opened in 1989 and is the largest park within the 23 wards of Tokyo. I was very impressed with this park, and I plan to visit it again and again.

There are a number of things to see and do within the park. The busiest is the 'Tokyo Sea Life Park', an aquarium that has been written up separately. There are also two artificial ponds, one fresh water and the other brackish. These ponds are a bird sanctuary with an observation 'rest house'. Walking trails run in and around the sanctuary, a wonderful way to get some exercise and view nature at the same time.

On the other side of the park is a huge Ferris wheel set right in the middle of a big, green rolling landscape. All of the above attractions are connected my a labyrinth of walking trails that all lead down to the ocean.
The view out into the bay is wonderful, and if it is really clear, you can see Mt. Fuji! Two manmade sand flats have been constructed along the sea. One is a wildlife reserve, but the other is connected to the mainland by a beautiful bridge. As long as the weather is nice, this is an ideal place to visit for exercise, relaxation, to get in touch with nature,... without having to travel very far at all!

It is possible to make an overnight visit, as the Hotel Seaside Edogawa is located within the park. There are also a couple of restaurants, and during the day, a number of food carts. For those with small children or disabilities (or those who just want to take a ride!), there is a cute little tram that constantly runs around the park.

Address: Rinkai-cho 6-2-1, Edogawa-ku, Tokyo (Zip: 134-0086)

Kasai Rinkai Park Service Center: 03-5696-1331

Access:

By train: 1 minutes walk from Kasai Rinkai Koen Station of the JR Keiyo Line.

By car: Shuto Expressway Wangan Line, Kasai Exit (just before Tokyo Disneyland). Paid parking only.

By boat: This is a great way to get to the park! Boats leave regularly from Hinode Pier (see previous blog).

12. Sightseeing Review: Tokyo Cruise Boat (Hinode - Asakusa)

2007-02-06T10:21:00.000+09:00

To get a true taste of traditional Tokyo, visit Asakusa. The best way to get there is by river cruise boat. The boats run from Hinode Pier, a two minute walk from Hinode Station of the Yurikamome Monorail. The Yurikamome Line starts in Shimbashi (on the Yamanote Line). You can also walk to the pier from Hamamatsucho Station (10 minutes).

Upon arrival, look for the 'Hinode Passenger Terminal'. It is a small, new building, and the name is in English. Inside are ticket machines with English instructions. A one-way ticket to Asakusa is 760 yen.

Check this website for departure times and more information:

http://www.suijobus.co.jp/english/cruise_e/index_su_line.html

The cruise boat travels at a leisurely pace up the Sumida River, passing under 12 bridges. If you sit inside near a speaker, there are brief English descriptions of the bridges. If you travel during the spring, make sure to ride on the left side of the boat as the cherry blossoms are quite beautiful. The ride upriver takes about 35 minutes. Views from the boat are not incredible, but it is obviously more scenic than the subway.
If you travel in the opposite direction, another option is to get off at Hama Rikyu Garden, once the suburban residence of the Tokugawa family. After enjoying the garden, it is a 10 minute walk to Shimbashi Station. It is possible to go from the garden to Asakusa, but the boat will head to Hinode first, then backtrack past the garden. One problem with traveling from Asakusa are the crowds. There is almost always a long line of people waiting for the cruise boat. From Hinode, I've never had a problem getting a good seat by the window.

There are other options from Hinode Pier. Boats run to different parts of Odaiba, and also to the Ooi Seaside Park/Shinagawa Aquarium. Since Odaiba is in the middle of Tokyo Bay, views from these cruises are very scenic.

11. Museum Review: Science Museum (Kitanomaru Park)

2007-02-01T15:12:00.000+09:00

The first mistake I made in visiting this museum was coming by myself. The Science Museum is mostly for children, and is best when visited as a family. Make that a Japanese family. I was given an excellent and thorough museum guidebook, but many of the exhibits were hard to figure out without command of the Japanese language.

That said, any child interested in science, or in 'touching' things, will have fun running around trying to figure things out. There are 5 floors covering just about every area of science you can think of: illusions, optics, mechanics, electronics, the universe, construction, metals, the Internet, environmentalism, energy,... the list goes on and on. There are also workshops offered throughout the day. The workshop schedule was translated, so non-Japanese speakers are welcome to join.

The Science Museum was founded by the Japan Science Foundation, opening its doors in 1964. The exhibits do seem a little dated, but they were still interesting and educational. The Japanese kids who were there seemed to be having a very good time, and they were definitely learning. If you decide to bring your children, bring along a couple of their Japanese friends as well. I think the museum is best for children in grades 1 through 9.

The Science Museum is located within Kitanomaru Park, which is connected to the Imperial Palace. I was impressed with the park, I didn't even realize it was there. A picnic lunch, followed by a visit to the museum, would be a nice family outing.

Address: 2-1, Kitanomaru-koen, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo.
Phone: 03-3212-8544

Hours of operation: 9:30-16:50, closed from December 29 to January 3.

Admission Fee: Adults 600 yen
Jr. and Sr. High Students 400 yen
Elementary to 4 years old 250 yen

Access: The museum is a 7 minute walk from Takebashi Station of the Tozai Line or Kudanshita Station of the Tozai/Hanzomon/Shinjuku Lines. It is very close to the Nippon Budokan Hall.

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#15)

10. Museum Review: Idemitsu Museum of Arts (Marunouchi)

2007-02-01T14:33:00.000+09:00

The Idemitsu Museum of Arts displays works of art collected over 70 years by Sazo Idemitsu, the founder of Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd. The main collection focuses on different types of Asian art, shown periodically, theme by theme.

Currently the exhibition is called, "Elements of Design in Calligraphy". As I stated in an earlier blog, I do not have a special interest in calligraphy, but it was close to the Mitsuo Aida Museum and there was a discount ticket in the Grutt Pass. Items on display included screens, scrolls, fans, pottery, books,...

I was not overly impressed with the museum itself. There was nothing to distinguish it from any other museum except for its excellent view of the Imperial Palace. To visit this museum, you must have a real interest in the subject matter of the exhibit.

For those truly interested in calligraphy, this was probably an excellent exhibit. But, for me, it all just started running together. Each item had a basic English description, but there was no translations of what was actually written (as there was in Japanese). I would have been in and out of this museum in record time if the view of the Imperial Palace had not been so good. With all the free Japanese tea (3 types) you can drink available, I sat for a while in a comfy chair, relaxing, staring out the window.

The museum is located on the 9th floor of the Teigeki Building, 3-1-1, Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0005.

The phone number is 03-3213-9402.

Hours of operation: 10:00-17:00 (last entry at 16:30). Fridays 10:00-19:00 (last entry 18:30). The museum is closed on Mondays (except national holidays), during the New Year's break, and for changes of exhibits. Always check before visiting, there are some lengthy closures.

Access: The museum is a short walk from JR Yurakucho Station, or from Subway Yurakucho and Hibiya Stations.

Admission: Adults: 1000 yen (800 with Grutt pass, or if in a group of 20 or more)
College and high school students: 700 yen
Free for Jr. High students and younger, but they must be accompanied by their parents.

For more information, check their website: http://www.idemitsu.co.jp/museum Scroll to the bottom of the page for a link in English.

The current exhibit runs until February 12th. The next exhibit, 'Shino and Oribe - The Elegance of Vessels', runs from February 20th to April 22nd.

A permanent exhibit of pot sherds (broken pieces) excavated from Egypt and sites around Japan is also on display.

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#19)

9. Museum Review: Mitsuo Aida Museum (Marunouchi)

2007-02-01T13:49:00.000+09:00

Mitsuo Aida was a famous calligrapher and poet who passed away in 1991. He once wrote, "I merely express the natural way people should be as humans and the true way to live. To accomplish that, I borrow the format of brush-and-ink calligraphy."

I had never heard of Mr. Aida, but entrance to the museum was free with my Grutt Pass, so I decided to check it out. Although I admire the beauty of calligraphy, I don't have any special interest in it. That wasn't important, as I found this museum inspiring.

First, the atmosphere. Again, in running with a Japanese theme, earth tones prevailed. In fact, in the main hall, the walls and floor seemed to be made of earth itself. The only sounds to be heard was running water (and in some areas, the air-conditioning).

Many of Mr. Aida's works are on display, and each one is completely translated into English. Because I am able to read hiragana and some kanji, I could read and understand some of his poems without the English, as they were simple and to the point. For example, "sono mamade iiga na", or "It's fine, just as it is."

Most were much more difficult, but reading what I could in Japanese, then reading in English, was an interesting challenge. If nothing else, I just enjoyed the serenity of the exhibit and the opportunity to contemplate many of the basic concepts of life.

Another of Mr. Aida's poems (translated) read, "The flowers are supported by the branches, the trunk supports the branches, the roots support the trunk, but we can't see the roots."

It would be just as easy to read his poems in a book, but I think the museum encourages one to really pay attention to what Mitsuo Aida was trying to say. It is a small museum, but I think it is worth a visit! But, I would not recommend bringing children. The silence is an important part of the experience.

The Mitsuo Aida Museum is located inside the Tokyo International Forum building, B1, 3-5-1, Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0005. Just enter the building and take the escalators down, the name of the museum is in English.

The phone number is: 03-6212-3200.

Hours of operation: 10:00-17:30 (last entry at 17:00). Closed on Mondays, except when Monday is a national holiday.

Admission: Adults 800 yen
Jr. & Sr. High students, seniors 70 and older: 500 yen
Elementary Students 200 yen
Children kindergarten age and under are free.
*Group discounts are available.

For more information, check their website: http://www.mitsuo.co.jp/

The International Forum is less than 5 minutes walk from Tokyo and Yurkucho stations, as well as the Hibiya/Nijubashimae/Ginza Subway stations.

Some of my favorite poems, by name: 'Jibun', 'Shiawasewa itsumo', 'anatano kokoroga', 'toki', 'michi', 'sono hito', 'makeni mawaru',...

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#18)

8. Museum Review: Bridgestone Museum of Art (Kyobashi)

2007-01-31T18:54:00.000+09:00

The Bridgestone Museum is a 5 minute walk from Tokyo Station's Yaesu Central Exit; or Kyobashi Station (Meidi-ya Exit) and Nihonbashi Station (Takashimaya Exit) of the Ginza Subway Line. It is right on Yaesu-dori and there is a large sign, in English, on the outside of the building.

1-10-1 Kyobashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 104-0031.
Phone: 03-5777-8600

It is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 to 20:00. Sundays and holidays from 10:00 to 18:00.

Adults: 800 yen
65 & older: 600 yen
Students: 500 yen
Under 15: Free
*Except during special exhibitions.
*There are discounts for groups over 15.
*A 100 yen coupon is available online at their website.

http://www.bridgestone-museum.gr.jp/en/

The Bridgestone Museum holds a multitude of different exhibits each year. The current exhibition, 'Masterpieces from the Collection - From Impressionism to Twentieth-Century Art', will run from January 2nd to April 8, 2007.

It is not a huge museum, but it is a very serious collection of 'Masterpieces'. Monet, Renior, Cezanne, Picasso, and Matisse; just to name a few. Two rooms were also dedicated to Modern Japanese painters. The museum consists of a total of ten rooms and two sculpture galleries, all on the 2nd floor. The 1st floor has a cafe, bookstore/shop, and an auditorium.

I am not a huge fan of 'Western' art, but I really enjoyed this museum. The floors are all hardwood and/or cream carpet. Bold paint in peach, yellow, lavender, burnt red,... cover the walls. I definitely recommend visiting on a weekday, there were few people there. I felt as if I was able to have each piece to myself, for as long as I wanted to enjoy it.

Everything was labeled in English, and the ladies at the front spoke some as well.

Not a museum for children, unless they are extremely quiet. For art lovers, its a must!

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#17)

7. Zoo Review: Inokashira Shizen Bunka-en Gardens (Kichijoji)

2007-01-26T17:16:00.000+09:00

The Inokashira Park Zoo is a ten minute walk from Kichijoji Station, on the JR Chuo line (from Shinjuku), the Keio Inokashira Line (from Shibuya).

It is also accessible by car. The park's address is: 17-6, Gotenyama 1 chome, Musashino-shi, Tokyo 180-0005. The phone number is: 0422-46-1100

http://www.tokyo-zoo.net/index.html

The Inokashira Park Zoo is open from 9:30am to 5:00pm (last admission 4:00). It is closed every Monday, unless Monday is a public holiday (then it closes on Tuesday). It is also closed from December 29 to January 1.

Admission: Adults (16 - 64) 400 yen Seniors (65+) 200 yen
Students (13 - 15) 150 yen Children (0-12) Free

*Admission is free for junior high school students living in Tokyo or attending schools in Tokyo. Admission is also free for the disabled, and one assistant per disabled person.

*Groups of 20 or more paying individuals are entitled to a 20% discount.

*Entrance to the Inokashira Park Zoo is free with the Grutt Pass.

I had mixed feelings about this zoo. On the negative side, it was obvious that this zoo is old. Many of the animal enclosures were small and worn down. You will feel sorry for some of them. Fortunately, there is only one large animal here, an Asiatic elephant. All the other animals are small, or they are 'petting zoo' animals.

On the positive side, small children who do not yet truly understand the differences in how animals can be caged, will love it here. There is an enclosure that guests enter and squirrels run free in front of them. There is a guinea pig petting area, with lots and lots of adorable guinea pigs to choose from. Many of the animals are cute and furry; foxes, raccoons, deer,...

There is also a building devoted to 'aquatic life'. The displays here were excellent, and they were low enough for small children to get a good look at everything hiding in the tanks. The zoo is also a park/garden. There is a playground, children's amusement rides, sculpture garden,...

The zoo is surrounded by the Inokashira Park (and Natural Culture Park), with lots to see and do. There is a shrine, paddle boat rental on a small lake, walking courses, a jogging track,... Small restaurants within the park serve soba noodles and other basic Japanese foods. All of this just a short walk from Kichijoji Station.

In our exploration of the area, we also came across the famous 'Ghibli Museum'. This museum is so popular that you have to have prior reservations to enter.

Even if you decide not to enter the zoo, the parks around Kichijoji Station are full of things for a family with children to do (or anyone else for that matter). I would definitely recommend it, it is a great day trip.

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#49)

6. Museum Review: The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo (Imperial Palace)

2007-01-23T18:05:00.000+09:00

MOMAT, or the Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo, is located just outside the Imperial Palace, in Kitanomaru Koen. The museum exhibits Japanese paintings, prints, photographs, and sculptures from the 20th Century to the present. The permanent exhibition comprises of about 200 pieces, more than half of which are replaced every two months. The museum also holds 4 or 5 special exhibitions every year.

This museum has a lot of nice pieces, if you are interested in modern art. I am more of a history fan, so I mainly enjoyed works that echoed the past, especially photographs. I can't say anything bad about this museum, but it didn't blow me away either. Art lovers, I'm sure you'll be very satisfied.

3-1 Kitanomaru koen, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-8322
Phone: 03-5777-8600

Hours of Operation: 10:00 - 17:00 (last entry at 16:30), closed Mondays (closed Tuesday when Monday is a national holiday) and Dec. 29 - Jan. 1
*Occasionally closed for long periods for exhibit changes.

Late Night Opening: Fridays until 20:00 (last entry 19:30)

Admission: Adults: 420 yen, College Students: 130 yen, High School Students: 70 yen
*Free for elementary school, Jr. high students, and those 65 and older.
*Free every first Sunday of the month, International Museum Day (May 18), and Culture Day (Nov. 3).
*Special exhibitions are not included in general admission price.

The museum is a 3 minute walk from Takebashi Station of the Tozai Line.

Website: http://www.momat.go.jp/

**Free entry to permanent collection with Grutt Pass 2007 (#12). Discount coupon for special exhibitions.

5. Museum Review: Tokyo National Museum (Ueno)

2007-01-23T16:51:00.000+09:00

The Tokyo National Museum is actually five museums within one entrance. As the oldest and largest museum in Japan, about 3000 objects are on exhibit. The works are rotated regularly.

As guests enter through the main gate, directly in front is the 'Honkan', or Japanese gallery. It was built in 1938 and has 21 exhibition galleries, all focusing on Japan. There are paintings, sculpture, calligraphy, ceramics, textiles, swords, historical documents, and materials of the Ainu and Ryukyu cultures. In addition to detailed Japanese explanations, there are basic English explanations for everything. This is a fantastic museum for those who want to increase their historical and cultural knowledge of Japan. It is easy to spend hours in this museum.

To the right of the 'Honkan' is the 'Toyokan', or Gallery of Asian Antiquities. There are 10 exhibition rooms dedicated to the art and archaeology of many parts of Asia. Without an interest in archaeology, many items in this museum start to run together. However, if you do have an interest, it is an excellent collection. Again, there are basic English explanations for each object.
To the left of the 'Honkan' is the 'Hyokeikan', which is only open for events. When I visited, it was exhibiting itself. It is an example of Western style construction from the late Meiji period. If you've ever been to Europe, or a city like New York, it won't seem very impressive. I was in and out in less than 10 minutes. There were almost no English explanations here. Also to the left, but a bit behind the 'Honkan', is the 'Heiseikan', housing a gallery on Japanese Archaeology. The exhibit was only half of the first floor. The second floor hosts special exhibitions (at an additional fee). Across from the 'Heiseikan' is the 'Shiryokan', a research and information center. This building is closed on Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, the last day of each month (if this falls on a holiday, the day before), and over the New Year break. Almost all of the material available for reference here is only in Japanese.

Behind the 'Hyokeikan' is the Gallery of Horyuji Treasures. In 1878, Nara's Horyuji Temple donated over 300 works of art to the Imperial Household. These works were later transferred to the National Museum. The building they are presently housed in was built in 1999. I strongly recommend that you save a little time for this gallery. The building itself, and the view from it, are worth seeing.

To round out the museum, there is a lovely garden which is only open in spring and fall, and a couple of outdoor exhibits beside the Horyuji Treasure Gallery.

The Tokyo National Museum is very foreigner friendly. Almost everything was labeled in English and pamphlets/maps in a few different languages were also available. Younger children will be very bored here. I think it would depend on the personality of older children whether they would enjoy it or not. As for adults, I would actually recommend visiting twice. Once, concentrating on the 'Honkan', and a second visit for the other galleries.

Location: Inside Ueno Park

Admission: Adults: 600 yen, University Students: 400 yen, High School aged and younger: free, Over 70: free. There is a 100 yen discount for groups over 20.

Special exhibitions require a separate admission fee. There is a 100 yen discount for these exhibitions with the Grutt Pass.

Hours of Operation: 9:30 - 17:00 (last entry at 16:30). Hours are sometimes extended during special exhibitions. From April to Septtember, the museum is open until 18:00 on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. The museum is closed on Mondays, except when Monday is a holiday - then it is closed the following day. Also closed from December 28 to January 1.

4. Zoo Review: The Ueno Zoo (Ueno Park)

2007-01-17T15:37:00.000+09:00

The Ueno Zoo is located inside Ueno Park. It is open from 9:30am to 5pm (gates close at 4pm, viewing of some animals ends at 4:30pm).

Admission: Adults: 600 yen, Seniors (65 and over) 300 yen, Youths (12-14) 200 yen
Groups of 20 or more: Adults: 480 yen, Seniors 240 yen, Youths 160 yen
Annual Pass: Adults: 2400, Seniors: 1,200

*Elementary school children are free.
*Students living or attending school in Tokyo are admitted free (must show valid student ID).

Admission is free on: Zoo's Anniversary: March 20; Greenery Day: April 29; and Tokyo Citizen's Day: October 1.

Closed: Every Monday (closes Tuesday if Monday is a public holiday). Dec. 29 - Jan. 1

Visitor Services:
Monorail: Age 12+ 150 yen, Age 2-11 80 yen
Baby strollers are available at the main gate and Ikenohata Gate for 300 yen

I first visited the Ueno Zoo about 10 years ago. The exhibits almost brought me to tears, I didn't even make it though the entire zoo. Since it was included in the Grutt Pass, I decided to give it another try.

Not much has changed. The zoo is crammed into an area much too small for the number of animals living there. In viewing the polar bears, hippos, rhinos,..., I just felt really sorry for them. It was quite depressing. It does seem that the zoo is making an effort, though. The gorillas and lions were both housed in new habitats, and there was significant emphasis on educating the public on those species. The areas were still a little small, but very much improved. At least the concrete was gone, replaced by trees, grass, and actual dirt!

The zoo has a long way to go, but I will give it a few points for trying. Unfortunately, it is still an embarrassment for a city as rich as Tokyo. The sad thing is, very few Japanese seem to see it that way. The treatment of animals in Japan has a long way to go.

I do not recommend visiting this zoo unless you are teaching your children how 'not to treat' animals.

**Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007 (#6)

3. Tokyo Museum Grutt (Guruto) Pass 2006/2007

2007-01-16T10:17:00.001+09:00

The Grutt pass is one of Tokyo's best bargains. For 2000 yen, the purchaser is given a passbook full of coupons good for free entrance into over 40 Tokyo museums/zoos/aquariums,... Special exhibitions are not included, but discount coupons for those exhibitions are also included in the passbook. The pass is good for two months from the date of the first day of use.

This promotion was run in 2006 and 2007. I do not know if it will continue past March of 2008. http://www.rekibun.or.jp/grutto/

2. Museum Review: The Shitamachi Museum (Ueno)

2007-01-16T08:31:00.000+09:00

The Shitamachi Museum is a small, two story museum located on the edge of Shinobazu Pond in Ueno Park. 2-1, Uenokoen, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0007
Phone: 03-3823-7451/7461 Fax: 03-3823-3870
http://www.taitocity.net/taito/shitamachi

Hours of Operation: 9:30a.m. - 4:30p.m.
Closed: Monday (open if it is a holiday, and closed the next day), Dec. 29 - Jan. 3
*Temporarily closed in Feb. and Oct. for rearrangement of exhibits.

Admission: Adults 300 yen (200 if in a group of 20 or more)
Primary - High School Students 100 yen (50 yen if in a group of 20 or more)

'Shitamachi' translates to 'downtown', but the true meaning is an area where modernization came more slowly, where more traditional lifestyles can still be seen. Taito-ku is Tokyo's 'Shitamachi'. Influences from the Meiji and Taisho periods, even some from the late Edo era, are still evident here.

The first floor of the museum re-creates scenes from the Taisho Period. There is a life-sized geta merchant's home and a tenement house shared by two families (a sweet shop owner and a coppersmith). Guests are welcome to take off their shoes, enter the exhibits, and step back in time.

The second floor is divided into sections, with changing exhibits related to 'Shitamachi' Culture. These exhibits include a public bath entrance donated by a former bath owner living in Taito-ku, and a collection of traditional toys that children can play with.

If you are visiting the Ueno area, I would recommend that you spend a short time in this museum. The staff of retired volunteers? were extremely friendly and some of them spoke excellent English. During the time that I was in the museum, a lady staff member was explaining the second floor exhibits (in English) to two foreigners. Around the corner another woman was helping 2 foreign children with some of the toys. Downstairs were two very friendly gentlemen who gave me an origami 'gift' on my way out.

In addition to the staff, there are papers giving an English explanation of the exhibits as well.
The papers I picked up explained the 'Nagaya' or tenement house, the 'Dagashiya' or Cheap Sweets Shop, the 'Dokoya' or Coppersmith's workshop, 'Inari' - a type of shrine, and 'Omikuji' - fortune telling oracle papers.

Taito-ku (and neighboring Bunkyo-ku) are great areas of Tokyo for wandering. The Tokyo of yesterday still exists here, down side alleys and backstreets. The Shitamachi Museum is a good way to gain some knowledge about what to look for in your explorations. Most of all, it is extremely foreigner (and child) friendly.

*Free entry with Grutt Pass 2007, #8 (see later blog for explanation).

1. Museum Review: The National Museum of Nature and Science (Ueno)

2007-01-16T08:13:00.000+09:00

The National Museum of Nature and Science is a great museum for anyone with children, or anyone who wants a refresher course in 'Basic Science 101'. There are two buildings, of which the original building has been completely remodeled and re-opened recently. It houses the 'Japan Gallery', and was originally completed in December 1930. Because of its unique Neo-Renaissance style, I found the building as facinating as the museum itself, it is beautiful.
The 'Japan Gallery' consists of three floors: 1st - Techniques in Observing Nature, 2nd - Organisms of the Japanese Islands & Japanese People and Nature, 3rd - History of the Japanese Islands & Nature of the Japanese Islands. All exhibits were well laid out, interesting, and pleasing to the eye. There is also the 'Theater 360', a 360-degree screen covered by 12 pentagon images. Visitors walk through the globe screen, currently showing a short film on dinosaurs and another on what exists inside the earth itself. The wait was too long during my visit, but I plan to come back and check it out in the future.

The new building, or 'Global Gallery', has 6 floors with these exhibit areas: Animals of the Earth, Woodland Exploration, Progress in Science and Technology, Exploration Space, Biodiversity, Dinosaurs, the Evolution of Life, and the Natural World - Universe, Matter, and Physics.

In the 'Animals of the Earth' exhibit, over 100 'stuffed' animals (some died at the Ueno Zoo) fill a huge glass room. Imagine this collection coming alive inside the room together; a buffalo, polar bear, tiger, gorilla,... all standing side by side.

On another floor is a hands-on discovery room for children exploring a variety of scientific principles related to light, sound, force, motion, magnetism,... The kids that I saw there were having a ball.

I really enjoyed the dinosaur and biodiversity exhibits, and I was pleasantly surprised at the fascinating presentation of 'The Evolution of Life', which traces the evolutionary path of plants and animals.
Everything has a one word/line English title, but all other explanations are in Japanese. There are, however, computer monitors everywhere - and they provide English on all subject matter in the museum. There are also PDA audio exhibition guides that can be rented for 300 yen.

7-20 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-8718
http://www.kahaku.go.jp/
TEL 03-3822-0111 (Mon.- Fri.) 03-3822-0114 (Sat., Sun., National Holidays)
Recorded Announcement 03-5777-8600

Transportation:
*Five minute walk from the Ueno Koen Exit of JR Ueno Station.
*10 minute walk from Ueno Station of the Ginza, Hibiya, and Keisei Lines.
*No parking available at the museum. Public and private parking lots can be found around Ueno Park.

The museum is beside the National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo. It is easy to spot because there is a huge whale statue just outside the entrance.

Opening Hours: 9:00 - 17:00 (last admissions 16:30), every Friday 9:00 - 20:00 (last admission 19:30)
Closed every Monday (Tuesday when a national holiday falls on Monday); Dec. 28 - Jan. 1

Admission Fees:
Individuals (adults and college students) 500 yen
Children and Youth in grades 1-12 Free
Seniors (65 or older) with ID are admitted free of charge to the permanent exhibitions.
Groups (at least 20 adults and college students) 300 yen

Night for Astronomical Observation (temporarily closed for renovation)
Individuals (adults and college students) 300 yen
Children in grades 1-12: Free

Special Exhibitions cost extra.

**Free entry to permanent collection with Grutt Pass 2007 (#1)