Kite Museum is flying high
The Kite Museum is another of Tokyo’s hidden gems. It’s filled with historical treasures and whimsical designs for enthusiasts and curious explorers. They provide a colorful journey through the sport’s art and culture from around the world. Whether you’re a fan of photography or just looking for something unique to see, it will surely lift your spirits.
It has kites of all shapes and sizes. There are about sixty on display and another 3500 in storage. They come from Australia, China, the United States, and other countries. Lovers of the sport will appreciate this place.
The person behind the museum was Japan’s first Cordon Bleu-style chef, Shingo Modegi. He first built it not far from where it stands today. It was above his restaurant! Times changed, and it moved a few blocks to near the Mitsukoshi department store.
The interior of the building is bright and beautiful. It is spacious. This is an enormous upgrade over the last buliding.
There are historical, animal, and insect kites. The only limit to the designs is the imagination – so many different shapes and sizes. Some even performed real jobs, like the air gunnery kites that the U.S. military used during World War 2. Others are so tiny that they are barely larger than a postage stamp. You’ll even see a few rare types.
The museum has one problem. It is the plaques. Everything is in Japanese. But the subject material is self-explanatory, so it shouldn’t cause many problems.
What to photograph at the museum
Kites, kites, and more kites!
Photography tips
- The museum is bright and spacious. Don’t worry about settings much.
- Most of the exhibits are behind glass. Reflections are everywhere.
Photo spots near the Kite Museum
- Masashige Kusunoki (samurai statue)
- Tokyo Station (with its beautiful ceilings)
Where is the Kite Museum?
Address: 1-8-3 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo City, Tokyo (this address doesn’t work well on most apps)
Here it is on Google Maps:
Closest subway station:
Mitsukoshimae on the Tokyo Metro Ginza and Hanzmon Lines.
Opening hours:
11 AM to 5 PM
It is closed on Sundays and public holidays.
Admission costs:
¥220
Conclusion
If you are a kite fan, the Kite Museum is great, and taking photos is no problem. It will be a quick look for others and then move on to the next place. And if you want to take something home with you, they have quite an extensive range of kites for sale.
Many Japanese enjoy kite flying, and you can often see them around the city. A few weeks before I published this article, I photographed some at Kasai Rinkai Park. One day, I will visit a festival for them. Leave questions and comments below.
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
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External related websites:
- Kite Museum (official website)