Kyoto National Museum 京都国立博物館

The Kyoto National Museum is dedicated to exploring the history of Japan, primarily through arts and industrial crafts. The largest number of artifacts come from the centuries when Kyoto was the capital of Japan. Archeological remains of some of Japan's earlier history are also displayed and preserved at the museum.

The museum can be reached by train and then by taxi or on foot.

The museum is a five-minute walk from Shichijo Station on the Keihan Line or a 20- to 25-minute walk (or quick taxi ride) from Kyoto Station .

The distinctive gates and red brick building, no longer being used for the display of artwork and normally closed to museum visitors, are historically important in their own right. The building was first opened in 1897 and showcases the Western influence on Japanese design during the Meiji period.

A newer, more modern building houses the permanent exhibitions. The items on show change often, with rotating displays from the museum's permanent collection, and long-term loans from temples and shrines.

The official website of the museum offers excellent explanations of selected items in their collection in English for those who are interested in enhancing their understanding of Japanese history, religion and culture either before or after their visit.

A souvenir shop and a cafe are located at the South Gate. Admission is not required to visit either.

The latest information may differ, so please check the official website