You can sit on this retro Yamaha if you wish in the Metropolitan Police Museum at Kyobashi

You can sit on this retro Yamaha if you wish in the Metropolitan Police Museum at Kyobashi (Photo: John Carter)

Metropolitan Police Museum

The history of Japan's police force

John Carter Oct 28, 2013 - 1 min read

You can sit on this retro Yamaha if you wish in the Metropolitan Police Museum at Kyobashi

The evolution of uniforms of the year from both male and female officers

This is the mascot of the Metropolitan Police; Pipo-kun

The stairway to the uppers floors was littered with images depicting the police forces ability. Somewhere just a little comical

Ukiyo-e is my favourite art form and this print was spectacular at the Metropolitan Police Museum at Kyobashi

These diagrams show the uniforms of the Meji Restoration at the Metropolitan Police Museum at Kyobashi

This uniform is from the the 41st year of Showa (1968)

Katanas are something I find fascinating at the Metropolitan Police Museum at Kyobashi

This depictions of gun battle was something extremely interesting at the Metropolitan Police Museum at Kyobashi

There was an area dedicated to the Police band and this particular display was from the 1964 Olympics. I wonder how the 2020 opening ceremony will differ

This exhibition displayed confiscated Yazuka goods at the Metropolitan Police Museum at Kyobashi

The Police force is important in any country and Japan is no different. Located in Ginza is a museum that provides an overview of the impressive history of Tokyo’s Metropolitan Police force and entry is completely free. From Meji era (1868-1912) uniforms to confiscated Yakuza goods, the Museum offers a large range of exhibitions and an interesting day out. For younger visitors there is a police issue motorbike to sit on and uniforms to dress up in though I was more interested in the Katana swords upstairs. On the top floor there is even an area to learn through interactive computer equipment such a safe driving simulator. History and technology always mix well.

John Carter

John Carter @john.carter

I'm a Visual Effects Graduate from the UK. With a passion for photography I hope to travel Japan and capture its unrivaled beauty.