National Museum of Japanese History

The National Museum of Japanese History (国立歴史民俗博物館) is Japan’s only comprehensive museum of history, located in Sakura, Chiba Prefecture. The museum is dedicated to the research, preservation, and exhibition of Japanese history and culture, featuring a vast collection of over 220,000 artifacts spanning from prehistoric times to the present day.

The museum’s permanent collection includes archaeological finds, artwork, costumes, and everyday objects that offer insights into Japan’s history and culture. The exhibits are organized thematically and chronologically, covering a wide range of topics such as religion, politics, and daily life. One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is a reconstructed Edo period (1603-1868) town, which vividly depicts the everyday life of people during that era.

In addition to its permanent collection, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibits and special events. It also boasts a comprehensive research library with one of the largest collections of history and folklore books in Japan, open to the public. Furthermore, the museum features the “Plants and People’s Life Garden,” showcasing plants closely related to Japanese folk culture.

Some exhibits offer interactive elements, allowing visitors to engage with history and culture in a hands-on way. The museum’s facilities also include a research center and an auditorium for lectures and performances.

Getting there

By Train

From Narita Airport:

• Take the Keisei Railway to Keisei Sakura Station (20 minutes, 470 yen)
• 15-20 minute walk from Keisei Sakura Station to the museum

From Tokyo:

• Take the JR train to JR Sakura Station

By Bus

From JR Sakura Station:

• Take the Chiba Green Bus bound for Tamachi-shako Terminal
• Get off at “Kokuritsu-hakubutsukan-iriguchi” or “Kokuritsu-minzoku-hakubutsukan” bus stop
• Journey time: About 15 minutes

By Car

• About 30 minutes from Narita Airport using the expressway
• About 45 minutes from Narita Airport using toll-free roads
• Parking available free of charge

Details

Hours	March to September / 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM October to February / 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM Reception closes 30 minutes before closing time.
Admission	General: 600 yen College students: 250 yen
Phone	+81 43-486-0123
Address	117 Jonaicho, Sakura, Chiba 285-0017
Official Website	https://www.rekihaku.ac.jp/