FunTriper
← Back to attractions

Shibusawa Memorial Museum

Japan · Tokyo Metropolis · 北區 · Landmarks

澀澤史料館
Syced / CC0 — via Wikimedia Commons

Image source: Wikimedia Commons; license credits as shown.

Overview

The Shibusawa Memorial Museum is located within Asukayama Park in Kita, Tokyo, and introduces the life and achievements of Eiichi Shibusawa, who laid the foundation for Japan's modern economic society. Visitors can view related historical materials and artifacts, and also enjoy the important cultural properties of Banko-ro and Seien Library located in the old Shibusawa Garden.

Getting There

The nearest station is JR Keihin-Tohoku Line Oji Station South Exit, about a 5-minute walk; Tokyo Metro Namboku Line Nishihara Station is about a 7-minute walk; and Toden Arakawa Line Asukayama stop is about a 4-minute walk.

Highlights

A history museum themed around Eiichi Shibusawa, showcasing his life, career, and network of connections. The old Shibusawa Garden next to the museum offers a green environment suitable for walking and leisurely visits. Visitors can tour the interiors of the nationally designated important cultural properties Banko-ro and Seien Library.

What to See

Permanent exhibition: Materials related to Eiichi Shibusawa's life, the companies he founded, and his role in modernization. Special exhibitions: Occasionally introduce Shibusawa's achievements, personal relationships, and historical context. Banko-ro: A Taisho-era building within the old Shibusawa Garden, designated as an important cultural property by the nation. Seien Library: A Taisho-era building within the old Shibusawa Garden, designated as an important cultural property by the nation.

Hours & Admission

Opening hours are from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last admission at 4:30 PM. Closed on Mondays (open if a national holiday falls on a Monday), the day after national holidays, and during the New Year period. General admission is 500 yen; for elementary, middle, and high school students, it is 100 yen. Access to the interiors of Banko-ro and Seien Library is usually included in the admission fee, with open hours subject to museum announcements.

Address

2-16-1 Nishihara, Kita, Tokyo

Travel Tips

It is recommended to plan a half-day itinerary that includes Asukayama Park and nearby cultural facilities in Kita. If you wish to see the interiors of Banko-ro and Seien Library, please confirm the open hours for that day in advance. The museum does not provide parking, so it is advisable to use public transportation to get there. Spring cherry blossom viewing and autumn walks are both very suitable, as the scenery in the park is particularly beautiful.

Nearby Dining

There are several cafes and casual dining options around Asukayama and Oji Station, perfect for a break before or after your visit. Nearby the museum, you can also find restaurants in the Oji Station shopping area.

FAQ

Q: Where is the Shibusawa Memorial Museum? A: The Shibusawa Memorial Museum is located at 2-16-1 Nishihara, Kita, Tokyo, within Asukayama Park. Q: How do I get to the Shibusawa Memorial Museum? A: The easiest way is to walk about 5 minutes from the South Exit of JR Keihin-Tohoku Line Oji Station. Q: How much is the admission fee for the Shibusawa Memorial Museum? A: The general admission fee is 500 yen, and for elementary, middle, and high school students, it is 100 yen. Q: What are the highlights of the Shibusawa Memorial Museum? A: Inside, you can see materials related to Eiichi Shibusawa and visit important cultural properties like Banko-ro and Seien Library.

Map

More Info

Nearby Attractions

Gokoku-ji 3.3 km

Gokoku-ji

Bunkyo · Landmarks

Gokoku-ji is a historic temple located in the Bunkyo ward of Tokyo, known for its complete preservation of the Edo period style. The temple was founded in 1681 by Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the fifth shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, in accordance with the wishes of his mother, Keishoin. The main deity is the Kannon of the Wish-Fulfilling Wheel, and several buildings within the temple, including the main hall and the Moonlight Hall, have been designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Although situated in the heart of Tokyo, visitors can step into the serene and solemn temple space immediately upon exiting at the Gokoku-ji Station on the Yurakucho Line. The grounds also feature a famous cemetery, a Fuji mound, and a large Buddha statue, making it a popular cultural spot that combines history, religion, and a pleasant walking atmosphere.

Hōdō-in 3.6 km

Hōdō-in

Toshima · Temples & Shrines

Hōdō-in is a Nichiren Shōshū temple located in the Minami-Ikebukuro area of Toshima, Tokyo. Despite being close to the bustling Ikebukuro station, it maintains a quiet and solemn atmosphere. The temple is not large and primarily serves local devotees for worship and ceremonies, making it a suitable small temple to visit while strolling around the neighborhood.

Gakushuin Memorial Museum 4.2 km

Gakushuin Memorial Museum

Toshima · Landmarks

The Gakushuin Memorial Museum is a historical and cultural museum affiliated with Gakushuin University, located within the university's Mejiro campus in Toshima, Tokyo. The museum houses approximately 250,000 items related to the Japanese imperial family, nobility, and Gakushuin, making it an important site for understanding the aristocratic society before modern times and the history of modern education. The museum is situated in the former school library building designed by the pioneer of modern Japanese architecture, Kunio Maekawa, and will reopen in 2025 after extensive renovations, featuring a modern exhibition space.

Otomeyama Park 4.8 km

Otomeyama Park

Shinjuku · Parks & Gardens

Otomeyama Park is located in the Shinjuku area of Tokyo, specifically in the Shimoochiai district. It is an urban park that preserves the green spaces and spring water landscapes of the Ochiai cliff line. Within the park, visitors can see forests, grassy areas, and flowing water, along with remnants of a Taisho-era garden, combining natural ecology with historical background.