10 Things to Do in the Edo-Tokyo Museum (Sumida) Tokyo Japan



The Edo-Tokyo Museum in Sumida, Tokyo, Japan is a great place to explore the history and culture of the Edo period. It is one of the most popular museums in Tokyo and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese history. Here are 10 things to do at the Edo-Tokyo Museum.

1. Learn About the History of Edo: The Edo-Tokyo Museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of the Edo period. It includes exhibits on the political, social, and economic history of the period, as well as its art, culture, and architecture. There are also interactive displays and activities, such as a virtual tour of the city of Edo and a 3-D model of the city.

2. Explore the Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum: The Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum is one of the highlights of the museum. It features full-scale replicas of traditional Edo-era buildings, including a merchant’s house, samurai residences, and a Buddhist temple. It’s a great way to get a feel for what everyday life was like in the Edo period.

3. See the Samurai Armor Collection: The Edo-Tokyo Museum also has an impressive collection of samurai armor. It includes armor from various clans and eras, as well as weapons and other artifacts. The armor is displayed in a glass case, so visitors can get a close-up look.

4. Watch a Puppet Show: The Edo-Tokyo Museum also hosts regular puppet shows. The shows feature traditional Japanese puppets and are presented in the traditional style. It’s a great way to get a feel for the culture of the Edo period.

5. Visit the Edo-Tokyo Museum Library: The Edo-Tokyo Museum Library is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of the Edo period. It houses a collection of books, documents, and other materials related to the period. The library also has a special section devoted to Edo-era maps.

6. Attend a Workshop: The Edo-Tokyo Museum also hosts regular workshops, such as calligraphy, kimono-making, and traditional Japanese arts and crafts. These workshops are a great way to learn more about the Edo period and experience its culture firsthand.

7. Take a Tour: The Edo-Tokyo Museum offers guided tours in both English and Japanese. The tours take visitors through the museum’s exhibits and provide additional information about the history and culture of the Edo period.

8. See a Special Exhibit: The Edo-Tokyo Museum also hosts special exhibits throughout the year. These exhibits focus on specific aspects of the Edo period and often feature artifacts and artwork from the period.

9. Shop at the Museum Store: The Edo-Tokyo Museum store is a great place to find souvenirs and gifts related to the Edo period. It has a wide selection of books, postcards, and other items related to the period.

10. Enjoy a Meal at the Museum Café: The Edo-Tokyo Museum also has a café where visitors can enjoy a meal or snack. The café serves traditional Japanese dishes, as well as other snacks and beverages.

The Edo-Tokyo Museum is a great place to experience the culture and history of the Edo period. From exploring the exhibits to attending workshops and taking tours, there is something for everyone at the museum. So, if you’re in Tokyo, be sure to check out the Edo-Tokyo Museum.