Sumida Hokusai Museum (Sumida Ward, Tokyo)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

The Sumida Hokusai Museum is an art museum established in Sumida Ward, the birthplace of Katsushika Hokusai (1760–1849), one of the most representative ukiyo-e artists of the Edo period. Its aim is to introduce Hokusai's life and creative activities in the context of the local area, and the museum houses and exhibits paintings, prints, sketches, block prints, and materials related to his masters and disciples. The modern and calm interior of the museum is designed with an emphasis on ingenious exhibition space and good lighting, creating an environment where visitors can carefully appreciate the colors and details of ukiyo-e. Hokusai's masterpieces, sketches, and even portions of his sketchbooks are on display, and the fascinating part is that the works convey his personality and creative process.

Highlights

• Hokusai's representative works, such as "Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji" and "Under the Great Wave off Kanagawa," as well as the original materials for those prints (original prints and sketches)
• Special exhibitions: In-depth exhibitions are held on a specific theme, and valuable collections that can only be seen at the same time are often displayed.
• An introduction to Hokusai's life and creative process, interpreted through his sketches, studies, letters, and related materials
• Museum shop: Catalogues, related goods, replicas, etc. available for purchase (ideal souvenirs)
• Library/Video Corner (free at some libraries): Deepen your understanding through Hokusai research and video commentary

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station (approximate walking distance):
  • Toei Asakusa Line, Honjo-Azumabashi Station: Approximately 5 minutes on foot
  • Oshiage (Skytree Mae) Station (Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, Toei Asakusa Line, Tobu Skytree Line, Keisei Oshiage Line): Approximately 10-15 minutes on foot
  • Ryogoku Station on the JR and Toei Subway: Approximately 15-20 minutes on foot (varies depending on the route)
• Bus: Local buses within Sumida Ward are available. Please check the route map and timetable in advance to find the nearest bus stop and route.
• Car/Parking: Please use the public parking lots around the museum. As there are only a limited number of large parking lots dedicated to the museum, we recommend coming by public transportation.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Permanent exhibition only: 30 to 60 minutes
• Permanent exhibition + special exhibition (if you want to enjoy it at your own pace): Approximately 60 to 120 minutes
• Please allow extra time if using workshops or video tutorials

Nearby spots

• Tokyo Skytree (Oshiage area): Views, shopping, Sumida Aquarium, and more
• Sumida Park (famous for its cherry blossoms): Enjoy strolls and seasonal scenery
• Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Street (Asakusa): Historical tourist area, where you can eat and worship (on foot or by short-distance bus).
• Edo-Tokyo Museum (Ryogoku): A large museum where you can learn about the history of Edo and Tokyo
• Kokugikan (Ryogoku Kokugikan): Sumo viewing and observation (events may occur depending on the season)

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Opening and Closing Days: Like many museums, the museum is closed on certain days (e.g. Mondays) and for changing exhibits, so please check the official website for the latest information before visiting.
• Crowds: The museum tends to get crowded on weekends, holidays, during cherry blossom season, and when special exhibitions are held. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting on weekday mornings.
• Tickets: Special exhibitions may require or recommend tickets with designated dates and times or advance purchase. Please be aware that they may sell out.
• Photography: There are areas in the museum's exhibition rooms where photography is prohibited (flash photography and cropped photography are particularly prohibited). Please check with each exhibit to see if photography is permitted.
• Food and drink: Eating and drinking are prohibited inside the exhibition rooms. If there are rest areas or cafes, please use them.
• Manners: Please be considerate of other visitors by not touching the exhibits, viewing them quietly, and turning your mobile phone on silent mode.
• Accessibility: Like many contemporary art museums, most have elevators and wheelchair-accessible restrooms, but please check the official website for detailed facility information.

*Please be sure to check the official website or tourist information before visiting for the latest opening hours, fees, special exhibition information, and access information.