What other travelers are saying about Japan Toy Museum
We visited this toy museum during a day trip to Himeji while our cruise ship was docked at Kobe port and loved it! The town was so serene and peaceful and it was really novel and interesting to learn about history through toys. It was also really fun to play with some with some of them and explore the cute little gift shop. The staff were also really kind, gifting us with some origami as a parting gift and the owner even drove us back to the train station.
The museum focuses exclusively on traditional and handcrafted toys rather than modern commercial products. It houses over 90,000 toys from 160 countries, emphasizing folk art and cultural significance. The collection is displayed across six traditional white-walled buildings in a rural setting.
Yes, the museum offers hands-on workshops where visitors create simple traditional toys. Toy-making demonstrations by artisans are also available. Workshop availability varies, so advance confirmation is recommended.
Most visitors spend one to two hours exploring the six buildings. Allow two to three hours if participating in workshops or using outdoor areas.
Basic English signage and labels are provided for major exhibits. Detailed descriptions remain primarily in Japanese. English-speaking staff availability is limited. The visual nature of displays allows appreciation without extensive language comprehension.
Yes, the museum is approximately 15 minutes by car from Himeji Castle. Many visitors explore both attractions in one day. The castle is a major UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan's most famous landmarks, making it a natural pairing with the museum.
Great and very interesting museum with tons of japanese toys from different years. There are a complete history of toys, some were really old. It was cool to know how kids played around 100 or more years ago. The kite collection was really impressive. They also have a huge collection with toys from many parts of the world (sadly they didn't have any from my country, can't blame them, though). And the last exhibition was a really big collections of Hina-ningyo, they seem to be very proud about it, I enjoyed it.
A nice cosy place where you can learn about the evolution of traditional Japanese toys. We were lucky enough to have the founder giving us a live demonstration of how some of the traditional toys like spinning tops work. It was fun getting hands on with some of the traditional toys, reminding us of simpler times.
We were in time to catch the Christmas Special Exhibition. Some toys from around the world were also housed in another building.
It was a unique experience and admission fee was 600yen/ adult. Although a little far off from the city, the trip was enriching and well worth it.
More awed to read the brochure about how the founder converted his own home into a museum in order to showcase his private collection of toys!
Truly a testament of how following your passion can sometimes lead to building remarkable things!
We visited during the winter and the kerosene burners became overwhelming after a while. Otherwise, it was a most pleasant trip and I would like to contribute some traditional Singaporean toys if I get the chance.
Amazing! I can't recommend this place enough. It's the collection of one person. We met him and he showed us how to use some of the toys. The price is very cheap and we got a memorable experience that felt honest, Interactive and personal and got to see an impressive collection of toys and dolls from all over the world. The museum shop is also cool and isn't too expensive. Go there if you have the time, definitely worth it.
A real gem, toys from all over Japan and the world. Toys made in occupied Japan and sent to USA on display. Also handmade kites were outstanding. Special seasonal displays are a nice plus. 15 minute walk from the station through quiet neighborhood to get there.
