Nezu Museum opened in 1941 in the former private collection of railway magnate Kaichiro Nezu — Heian-period Japanese ceramics, Chinese bronzes, Korean art. Kengo Kuma rebuilt the building in 2009 — long horizontal lines, dark wood, glass walls opening onto the original Edo-era garden behind it.
What to Expect
Walk down the bamboo-lined entrance approach (the most-photographed exterior detail of any Tokyo museum), into the low galleries, then OUT through the back to the garden — a 17,000m² Edo-era stroll garden with stone lanterns, tea houses and pine. The garden alone justifies the ¥1,500. Allow 90 minutes minimum, 2 hours if you sit in the garden.
Consider This Instead
For more contemporary art in a similarly designed Roppongi building, head to Mori Art Museum — modern rotating shows, ¥2,000 with City View included.
How to Get There
Getting There
From Shibuya Station
- 1Take Tokyo Metro Ginza Line → Omotesando Station
- 2Walk Aoyama-dori east, exit A5 → Nezu Museum
Tips
- Garden first if it’s sunny. Galleries hold their lighting; the garden is best in morning light.
- Tea house in the garden. ¥1,200 matcha set; book at reception when you enter.
- Combine with Aoyama designer-architecture walk. Prada, Dior, Tods all 5 min walk west.
FAQ
Is the museum or garden the highlight?
The garden — Tokyo’s loveliest hidden Edo-era stroll garden. Galleries are excellent but the garden is what locals come back for.
How long does a visit take?
90 minutes minimum (galleries + garden walk). 2 hours if you take matcha at the tea house.
