Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The National Diet Library (NDL) is a national library attached to the Japanese Diet whose mission is to support research and study and preserve national publications. Since its establishment in 1948, it has comprehensively collected and preserved a wide range of materials published in Japan, including books, magazines, newspapers, maps, classical books, audio materials, and video materials. The main library in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, is located adjacent to the National Diet Building, and while it provides specialized services for collecting parliamentary materials and legislative research, it also makes materials available to the general public through its reading room, exhibition room, and digital archive (NDL Digital Collection).
Its features include the collection of almost all domestic publications through the domestic deposit system, advanced collection searches (NDL-OPAC), preservation and reproduction technology for rare materials, specialized reference research services, and the availability of digital materials via the Internet. One of its attractions is its wealth of primary sources that are difficult to obtain in ordinary libraries, such as historical materials and publications from before and during the war.
Highlights
- Special exhibitions and planned exhibitions: The museum regularly holds themed exhibitions and planned exhibitions. Many of the exhibits, which relate to historical materials and publishing culture, are of interest not only to researchers but also to the general public.
- NDL Digital Collection: Classic books, magazines, pre-war newspaper articles, maps, etc. can be viewed online. Some items can also be viewed on-site from terminals.
- Reading rooms and specialized materials: There are reading rooms for each field, such as law, administration, politics, history, and local materials, where you can read specialized books and primary sources (most of which can only be used within the library).
- Reference research service: Materials will be collected and researched by specialized staff who support official investigations (prior application and conditions apply).
- Building and surrounding scenery: As it is located close to the National Diet Building, you can stroll around and enjoy the exterior and surrounding scenery (the Imperial Palace Outer Gardens and Sakuradamon area).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station
- Kokkai-gijidomae Station (Tokyo Metro: Marunouchi Line, Chiyoda Line) 3-7 minute walk
- Nagatacho Station / Kojimachi/Akasaka direction (Tokyo Metro: Yurakucho Line, Hanzomon Line, Namboku Line) Approx. 5-10 minute walk
- Approximately 10 minutes walk from Kasumigaseki Station (Tokyo Metro: Marunouchi Line, Hibiya Line, Chiyoda Line)
- Bus: Toei buses and Toei bus lines pass through the area. Routes vary depending on your destination, so please check in advance.
- Car/Taxi: As this is a city center location, parking is limited and there may be traffic restrictions and security in the surrounding area. We recommend coming by public transportation.
- Other: Nearby tourist attractions (Imperial Palace, Hibiya Park, etc.) are within walking distance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short visits (exhibition rooms and facility tours): 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Viewing materials (viewing without prior preparation/using NDL terminals): 1 to 3 hours
- Full-scale research and literature search (obtaining a user card in advance, ordering materials, etc.): Half a day to one day or more
Nearby spots
- National Diet Building: Right next to the library. Perfect for viewing the exterior and strolling around the area.
- Constitution Memorial Hall: A museum displaying parliamentary history and political documents. Within walking distance.
- Hibiya Park: A green space perfect for strolling and relaxing. Events are also held here.
- Imperial Palace Outer Garden/Sakuradamon Gate: With its historic gate and wide pedestrian space, this is a popular walking route.
- Akasaka and Tameike area: Many restaurants and cafes. Convenient for eating after research or a break.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Prior confirmation for viewing and use: User registration (user card) may be required for viewing. Rare materials and requests for duplication require prior application, so please check the official website for procedures before visiting.
- Library etiquette: Eating, drinking, and smoking are generally prohibited. Please be quiet in the reading room and keep your cell phone on silent mode or follow the usage restrictions. Photography of materials is often restricted and is not permitted without permission.
- Borrowing materials: As a general rule, materials cannot be borrowed outside the library. However, they may be available through copy services or request procedures.
- Crowds: The reading rooms and exhibits can get crowded during university exam periods, research periods, and times when there are many visiting groups. If you want to do research in a more relaxed atmosphere, we recommend visiting on weekday mornings.
- Security and entry restrictions: There may be entry restrictions or traffic restrictions due to the surrounding security situation or events. Please check the official information for temporary library closures, changes in opening hours, and special events.
- Seasonal Note: In the summer heat and winter cold, moving around outdoors can be difficult. It is a good idea to take breaks at nearby indoor facilities or cafes.
Before visiting, we recommend checking the National Diet Library's official website for the latest information on opening hours, closing days, usage procedures, exhibition information, etc. If your research purpose is clear, it will be smoother if you check the usage guide and application method for reference research in advance.
