When was the Kanazawa Phonograph Museum established?

The museum was established in 1983 by a group of enthusiasts passionate about preserving the heritage of early sound recording technology.

What can visitors expect to see at the Kanazawa Phonograph Museum?

Visitors can explore a vast collection of phonographs, gramophones, records, and other artifacts related to sound recording and playback.

Is photography allowed inside the Kanazawa Phonograph Museum?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs inside the museum for personal use, but it's advisable to respect any restrictions on certain exhibits.

Is the Kanazawa Phonograph Museum accessible to people with disabilities?

Yes, the museum is equipped with facilities to accommodate visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair access and accessible restrooms.

Kanazawa

Kanazawa Phonograph Museum

4.6 (677)MuseumTourist AttractionPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Apr 26, 2026

Kanazawa Phonograph Museum is a unique treasure nestled in the historic city of Kanazawa. This museum offers a nostalgic journey into the world of sound, showcasing a vast collection of over 500 phonographs and 20,000 SP records. Visitors are transported back to the early 20th century, a time when music was a precious commodity, and phonographs were the height of technology.

The museum's highlight is the opportunity for guests to listen to actual photographs, providing an authentic auditory experience that digital technology can't replicate. From Edison's early inventions to intricate gramophones, each piece tells a story of innovation and cultural evolution. The museum also features rare music pieces from around the world, capturing the diverse history of recorded sound.

What makes Kanazawa Phonograph Museum truly special is its commitment to preserving this slice of history. In an era dominated by streaming and digital formats, the museum serves as a reminder of the tactile and mechanical beauty of music playback. Whether you're a music enthusiast or simply curious about historical gadgets, this museum offers an insightful and engaging visit that connects the past with the present.

Hours:

10:00 AM - 5:30 PM (Last entry until 5:00 PM)

Closed:

Closed on Tuesdays

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Admission Fees:

General: 310 yen

Hours

Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Phone

+81 76-232-3066

Website

www.kanazawa-museum.jp

Overview

Address

2-chōme-11-21 Owarichō, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0902, Japan

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Higashi Chaya District

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Kanazawa Castle

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Places & attractions near Kanazawa Phonograph Museum

Higashi Chaya District

Omicho Market

Kanazawa Castle

Cooking Studio Kanazawa Salon, Kanazawa

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

Amazing place. The staff are super friendly. I got to use an old vinyl player to listen to a song thanks to the help of a friendly staff. I was also very lucky to be there for the demonstration. Ended up spending an hour there in total and I enjoyed every minute of it.

vvn

May 27, 2026

There is a great demo (I think three times a day) where you can hear music being played with different record players from centuries ago. Please time your visit so that you can watch this demo from start to finish - it's certainly the highlight. There is also a listening area upstairs where you can fall in love with record players (if, for some reason, you haven't already 😉).

Lovely place for vinyl enthusiasts. If you're lucky enough to join one of the guided demonstrations at 11:00, 14:00, or 16:00, you can hear different gramophones being played — a really special experience. There are also listening stations where you can enjoy vinyl records with headphones. A must-visit for anyone who loves classic audio.

An absolutely wonderful museum, perhaps unique, that documents a declining slice of history. Phonographs and discs have been saved from destruction and displayed in a way that explains how the technology was discovered and pioneered over the past 150 years or so. Make sure you time your visit to coincide with the 30-minute demonstrations at 11am, 2pm or 4pm, where a learned master plays discs on about ten devices and explains how they evolved (an English brochure is available). It’s scandalously inexpensive at ¥310 and absolutely worth an hour and a half of your stay in Kanazawa.

This is a fantastic museum filled with so many interactive records. The staff are incredibly kind and welcoming, allowing you to experience the old beauty of the phonographs. I highly recommend this museum for its demonstration that happens three times per day at 11am, 2pm, and 4pm. It is offered in English and Japanese, the staff are knowledgeable and interesting. I didn't have an interest in vinyl before this museum, but it has inspired me! This place is best suited for small groups with an hour or two to enjoy it!