Nezu Museum

The Nezu Museum is surrounded by a choice Japanese garden, famous for these iris, which bloom in May

This museum (which is in Omotesando, not near Nezu Station, go figure) is a small art museum that showcases beautifully curated exhibits, focusing on traditional Japanese arts and crafts. It’s especially delightful to visit in

May

because they exhibit this golden screen by the famous Japanese artist Kōrin at the same time as…

One of the most famous pieces in their permanent collection is this gold-leafed screen by Korin, which is exhibited once a year, at the same time that the iris in the garden bloom. The iris in the garden are the same variety as those in the painting! (photo courtesy of the Nezu Museum)
Their collection includes unexpected treasures like Meiji Era jeweled clocks…
…but the special exhibitions tend to be the finest examples of traditional Japanese arts, like dollmaking…
…or swordsmithing
After enjoying the exquisite art inside, it’s always pleasant to meander through the garden, enjoying the teahouses…
…enjoying the teahouses tucked among the greenery
As you can see, it’s especially lovely in the rain…
Everywhere you turn, there’s more nice art
I’ve always enjoyed the paths in this garden, which are paved in especially pleasing stone patterns
And the moss is to die for
…and discovering picturesque little trickles of water hidden in the greenery

Open: Every day except closed on Mondays, Dec 29 – Jan 3 and during exhibit preparation

Hours: 10:00 – 17:00

Admission: Adult ¥1100 (¥1300 for special exhibition), student (high school and above) ¥800 (¥1000 for special exhibition)

For the upcoming exhibition schedule, check the Nezu Museum website

MAP

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And if you’d like a book to read while you’re here…

Will this be your new favorite mystery too?

In 1790s Japan, the shōgun rules with an iron fist, except in the walled pleasure quarter of Yoshiwara, where women hold all the cards…

“An exhilarating plot and characters that step off the page
make this a must-read novel.”
—Terry Shames, Macavity Award-winning author of the Samuel Craddock series

Learn more…

Order now!

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And here are the other places I take my friends when they come to town

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Jonelle Patrick writes novels set in Japan, produces the monthly e-magazine Japanagram, and blogs at Only In Japan and The Tokyo Guide I Wish I’d Had