Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum is an art museum located in Marunouchi, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo. It was originally built in the Meiji period (1894) as the "Mitsubishi Ichigokan" building, designed by British architect Josiah Conder. However, it was restored and rebuilt based on the original building that disappeared after the war, and opened as a museum in 2010. It features a red brick exterior and a classic interior, making it a striking presence among the modern buildings in Marunouchi.
The museum's collection and exhibits mainly focus on Western art from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, with planned exhibitions covering a wide range of subjects, including Impressionist and Victorian British art, photography, and art history.The museum's historic architecture, high-quality planned exhibitions, and the attached cafe (Café 1894) and museum shop are also part of its attractions.
Highlights
- The architecture itself: With its red brick exterior, restored details, and light-filled atrium, this building is a sight to behold for architecture lovers.
- Special Exhibitions: High-quality special exhibitions focusing on Western art from the 19th to early 20th centuries. Many of the exhibits are themed and feature a combination of the museum's own collection and masterpieces from Japan and abroad.
- Permanent and Collection Works: Works and related materials from the museum's collection may also be exhibited (depending on the exhibition).
- Café 1894: The hotel's café is a popular spot where you can enjoy meals, sweets, and afternoon tea in a historic atmosphere.
- Museum Shop: Exhibition catalogs, original goods, art-related books, and more.
- Photo spots: The exterior and the staircases and halls inside the museum are photogenic and perfect for commemorative photos (photography inside the exhibition rooms must follow the rules).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
Address: 2-6-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo (Please check the official website for the latest address and map)
- Approximately 6-10 minutes on foot from JR Tokyo Station (Marunouchi side) (accessible from Marunouchi South Exit or Marunouchi North Exit)
- Approximately 8-12 minutes walk from JR Yurakucho Station
- Tokyo Metro: Within walking distance of Otemachi Station and Nijubashimae Station (both are about a 10-minute walk)
- Visiting by car: Parking is limited in the Marunouchi area, so we recommend using public transportation. If you plan to use a private parking lot in the area, please check the location and fees in advance.
(For information on congestion and the shortest route from the ticket gate exit, it is convenient to check the station signs, information apps, and the access page on the official website on the day.)
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Viewing the special exhibition: 60-90 minutes (depending on the size of the exhibition and the level of congestion)
- If you include use of the cafe and museum shop: +30 to 60 minutes
- If you want to take your time viewing the exhibits or join an explanatory tour, it's a good idea to allow about two hours in total.
Nearby spots
- Tokyo Station (Marunouchi): Shops and observation spaces in the station building and station buildings (KITTE, Maru Building, Shin-Marunouchi Building)
- Marunouchi Nakadori: Stroll through the shops and business district
- East Gardens of the Imperial Palace (Outer Gardens of the Imperial Palace): Walking and garden tours available
- Ginza Area: Shopping and Dining Spots (On foot or a short train ride)
- Cultural and commercial facilities around Marunouchi, such as Tokyo International Forum and KITTE Marunouchi
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Tickets: Special exhibitions may require tickets with designated dates and times, and admission may be restricted during peak hours. We recommend checking the official website for ticket information and reserving tickets online in advance.
- Photography and eating and drinking: Photography and eating and drinking are often restricted inside exhibition rooms, so please follow the signs posted at the entrance and inside the exhibition room. The use of flash, tripods, and stepladders is generally prohibited.
- Closing days and opening hours: Like many art museums, the museum is closed on Mondays (except on public holidays) and on special closing days due to exhibitions. Opening hours are also extended at night on some days, so please check the official information.
- When to visit: It tends to get crowded on weekends, holidays, weekend afternoons, and the first and last days of exhibitions. If you want to take your time looking around, it's usually less crowded if you go on weekday mornings or evenings (on days when the museum is open at night).
- Luggage/strollers: There may be restrictions on bringing large baggage or strollers. Please check in advance whether lockers or cloakrooms are available.
- Barrier-free: The building is equipped with elevators and wheelchair-accessible restrooms, but please check the official website for details (wheelchair rentals, availability of assistance, etc.).
- Dress code and etiquette: Please be quiet when viewing the exhibits. Please refrain from talking loudly or running around.
Please check the official website (https://mimt.jp/) for the latest exhibition information, opening hours, ticket sales, access details, etc.
