The Museum of Kyoto

The Museum of Kyoto opened in 1988 to commemorate the 1200-year anniversary of the Heian capital foundation. Following a major renovation in 2011, the museum has established itself as a comprehensive cultural facility dedicated to presenting Kyoto's history and traditional culture in an accessible format. The institution comprises a main building for exhibitions and an annex—the former Bank of Japan Kyoto Branch, designed by Kingo Tatsuno and designated as an Important Cultural Property. This striking red brick building, created by the architect known as the "father of Japanese modern architecture," now serves as a venue for special events, concerts, and exhibitions, with a café renovated from the former vault.

The museum's significance lies in its role as a gateway to understanding Kyoto's position as Japan's imperial capital for over a millennium. Through its collections, visitors gain insight into how the city shaped Japanese culture, from courtly traditions to artistic developments. The museum preserves and displays important masterpieces associated with Kyoto, including valuable materials from temples, shrines, illustrious local families, and various periods spanning the Heian to Meiji eras. These exhibits illustrate the depth and breadth of Kyoto's cultural heritage and its continuing influence on Japanese identity.

Visitors encounter a multi-layered experience across the museum's floors. The 2nd and 3rd floors house general exhibition rooms that chronologically present Kyoto's history through materials and visual displays, with planned exhibitions on seasonal events and temple treasures. The 4th floor special exhibition hall hosts rotating displays of valuable materials and superior artworks from Japan and abroad.

Beyond traditional museum exhibits, the facility includes a Film Theater on the 3rd floor showing classic and famous films from Kyoto Prefecture's collection. The museum also features Roji Tempo, a recreated mercantile street modeled on Edo-period Machiya facades, where traditional restaurants, craft shops, and specialty stores offer authentic Kyoto products and flavors.

The Museum of Kyoto is located a 3-minute walk from Karasuma-Oike Station on the Kyoto City Metro lines, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the city. Alternative routes include a 7-minute walk from Karasuma Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line, or taking Route 15 city bus from JR or Kintetsu Kyoto Station to Sakaimachi-Oike stop. General exhibition admission costs 500 yen for adults and 400 yen for college students, with free entry for high school students and younger visitors.