Overview
Befitting its status as one of Tokyo's most popular places to visit and even settle down, Mitaka City is home to some good quality museums and galleries. Justifiably headlined by the world renowned Ghibli Museum, the history and creativity on show is impressive. Here is a simple introduction to the museums and galleries of Mitaka City and how to reach them.
Ghibli Museum
A gloriously child-like combination of museum and gallery, the world famous films of Miyazaki Hayao are wonderfully represented at the Ghibli Museum. An almost fairytale-like atmosphere bringing to life the process of making animated films is so popular that tickets to the museum must be booked well in advance.
A 10-minute walk from Kichijoji Station on the JR Chuo Line.
ICU Hachiro Yuasa Memorial Museum
A decidedly scholarly location, the ICU Hashiro Yuasa Memorial Museum is part of the International Christian University and pays homage to its namesake professor and his years of contributions to the university. Plenty of folk art and archaeological materials are on display while special exhibitions are held regularly.
A 12-minute drive or no.91 bus ride from Musashisakai Station on the JR Chuo Line.
Mitaka City Gallery of Art
A small city-run exhibition space that focuses on local talent, the Mitaka City Gallery of Art holds two solid exhibitions throughout the year. Smaller exhibitions also feature but the city-run shows are excellent quality; anyone in town when they are held is in for a treat. Exhibitions tend towards the contemporary and the use of space here is inventive.
A 2-minute walk from Mitaka Station on the JR Chuo Line.
Yuzo Yamamoto Memorial Museum
Dedicated to the life and works of the late writer and playwright, Yuzo Yamamoto, the Yuzo Yamamoto Memorial Museum is located within the European-styled home where the artist once spent a decade living and working. The building itself has been designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of the city.
A 12-minute walk from the South Exit of Mitaka Station on the JR Chuo Line.
