A Hidden Gem Known for Unique Toy Culture and Expertise
In the heart of Tokyo, a hidden gem awaits: the Tokyo Toy Museum. This museum has a distinctive assortment of toy culture from around the world and is conveniently located near the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and the State Guest House. Housed in a pre-World War II building, the museum is home to over 100,000 items and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the art of play.
What sets this museum apart is its warm and inviting atmosphere, thanks in large part to the abundant use of cedar from various regions throughout Japan. The “Akachan Mokuiku Hiroba” (baby wood-based learning area) is a space designed to promote a love of wood and has even inspired similar areas in retailers such as MUJI and Audi.
The Tokyo Toy Museum is run by approximately 350 toy curators, many of whom can be found on-site daily. The museum is also home to a variety of events, from storytelling to performances, that are sure to entertain visitors of all ages.
But what really makes this museum special is the caliber of its visitors. Top players of various table games, including female professional shogi players and the Japanese Othello champion, often lend their expertise to the museum’s Game Room. And professionals from a wide range of fields, from woodworking artisans to masters of traditional performing arts, regularly showcase their skills for the delight of children and adults alike.
