Overview
Taito City Ward may be small in size but it packs the greatest punch of all of Tokyo's central city wards. World class museums and galleries mean that an entire visit to Tokyo could easily be had within its borders and still leave you wanting more. Here is an introduction to some of the museums and galleries of Taito and how to reach them.
Art Lab Tokyo
For a city laden with history, the contemporary gallery that is Art Lab Tokyo comes with its own creative appeal. Regular exhibitions at this small gallery keep both local Japanese and international artists in the public eye with works on display covering the whole range of artistic genres. The free admission keeps everything honest too.
A 5-minute walk from Asakusabashi Station on the JR Sobu Line.
Shitamachi Museum
With its low-key location, the Shitamachi Museum gives an amazing glimpse of what life was like in Tokyo's old Edo period. Life-sized replicas of period buildings as well as a second floor exhibition of the city's more recent history offer a lot for those seeking a deeper look into the city. A JPY300 admission and English-speaking volunteers help.
A 5-minute walk from Ueno Station on the JR Yamanote Line.
Todays Gallery Studio
A most curiously cosy gallery, Todays Gallery Studio is home to an everchanging exhibition schedule of modern art. With its regular displays of painting, photography and illustrations, the studio also finds time to organise seminars and workshops. An admission fee of around JPY600 is the norm for some quality art.
A 7-minute walk from either Asakusabashi Station on the JR Sobu Line or Toei Asakusa Line.
Tokyo National Museum
One of the best museums in Japan, if not the world, the Tokyo National Museum is a must-visit destination in a city already filled with must-visit spots. With over 100,000 items located within five separate exhibition buildings, the JPY1000 admission fee is a steal for a museum overflowing with cultural treasures and properties.
A 5-minute walk from Ueno Station on any of the Hibiya, Ginza or JR Yamanote lines.
