Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum Tours

Architecture and design enthusiasts will love the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architecture Museum. Set within Koganei Park in western Tokyo, the traditional buildings on display were moved or reconstructed here in an effort to preserve Japanese architectural history. Walk around and see how people once lived in Japan.
 
The Basics
Edo is the old name for Tokyo, and the museum’s name reflects its focus on modern-day Tokyo’s history. Most of the buildings date from the Meiji era (1868-1912), but there’s a wide variety of styles on display, from thatched-roof cottages to modernist constructions to a faux-Tudor house. Visitors can wander freely into the buildings and check out the places that interest them most. Visit with a photography tour that includes transportation.
 
Things to Know Before You Go

• There is an admission fee to enter the park.
• The museum in general is wheelchair-accessible, although some buildings are not.
• A café for snacks and drinks and a restaurant for full meals are on-site.

 
How to Get There
The museum is in Koganei Park, about a half-hour by train from Shinjuku in central Tokyo. Take the Seibu Shinjuku Line to Hana-Koganei station, or the JR Chuo Line to Musashi-Koganei station. From either station, the park is a 20- to 30-minute walk away.
 
When to Get There
Opening hours vary, depending on the season, so check the park’s website before visiting. The museum is closed Monday (unless Monday is a public holiday, in which case it is closed the following day). The gardens surrounding the park buildings are especially attractive in spring and summer, with a variety of flowers and trees. The museum holds a number of events throughout the year, including demonstrations of traditional crafts and special events for kids.
 
Visit the Edo-Tokyo Museum
The Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum is a branch of the Edo-Tokyo Museum in central Tokyo’s Ryogoku area. The latter presents the history of Tokyo during the important Edo period through miniature and full-scale reenactments of daily life. It’s generally considered to be one of the best history museums in a city with many museums.