Things to do when it’s raining in Tokyo
It’s raining well that’s a bit of a bummer yet Tokyo has multiple of activities to do even if it rains
First, umbrellas
You can buy an umbrella at any combini, some hotels can even lend you one for the day.
A faint clap of thunder,
Clouded skies,
Perhaps rain will come.
If so, will you stay here with me?
Yasunari Kawabata
Tokyo Museums
Tokyo has fascinating museums that portrys different asset of the city and Japan
Tokyo National Museum
Where: Ueno park
Opening hours: 9:30 AM–5 PM Closed Mondays
The Tokyo National Museum collects, houses, and displays a comprehensive collection of art works and antiquities from Japan as well as other Asian countries. The museum also conducts research and investigations concerning its collection of books, rubbings, and photographs, related to fine art, and makes these items available to scholars.
National Museum of Nature and Science
Where: Ueno Park
Opening hours: 9 AM–5 PM, Closed Mondays
This museum offers a deep dive into natural history and science, featuring exhibits on dinosaurs, space, biodiversity, and Japan’s technological progress. It includes hands-on displays and two main galleries: the Japan Gallery and the Global Gallery.
National Art Center
Samurai Ninja Museum
Where: Shinjuku, Tokyo
Opening hours: 10 AM–8 PM, open daily
The Samurai Ninja Museum offers an interactive look into the world of Japan’s legendary warriors. Visitors can explore authentic samurai armor and ninja tools, and even experience sword handling and ninja training sessions.
The National Museum of Western Art
Where: Ueno Park
Opening hours: 9:30 AM–5:30 PM, Closed Mondays
The National Museum of Western Art houses an impressive collection of European artworks, from the Renaissance to the early 20th century. Highlights include works by Rodin, Monet, and Van Gogh.
World Bags & Luggage Museum
Where: Asakusa, Tokyo
Opening hours: 10 AM–4:30 PM, Closed Sundays and holidays
This unique museum showcases over 500 bags and pieces of luggage from around the world. Visitors can see travel gear from different eras and cultures, offering insight into how travel and craftsmanship have evolved.
The Japanese Sword Museum
Where: Sumida, Tokyo
Opening hours: 9:30 AM–5 PM, Closed Mondays
Dedicated to the artistry and history of the Japanese sword, this museum exhibits rare and beautifully crafted blades, fittings, and documents. It also offers insights into swordsmithing traditions.
Printing Museum
Where: Bunkyo, Tokyo
Opening hours: 10 AM–6 PM, Closed Mondays
The Printing Museum explores the history of printing in Japan and worldwide, from ancient woodblocks to modern digital methods. Interactive exhibits and live demonstrations make the history come alive.
Yayoi Museum
Where: Bunkyo, Tokyo
Opening hours: 10 AM–5 PM, Closed Mondays
This museum focuses on early 20th-century Japanese illustration and girls’ culture, particularly the work of Yumeji Takehisa and other Taisho and Showa-era artists.
Space Travelium TeNQ
Where: Tokyo Dome City, Bunkyo
Opening hours: 11 AM–6 PM, varies by season
TeNQ is an interactive space museum offering immersive exhibits about space exploration, science, and futuristic travel, featuring projection mapping, scientific displays, and games.
The Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum
Where: Tokyo Dome, Bunkyo
Opening hours: 10 AM–5 PM, Closed Mondays
Celebrating Japan’s beloved sport, this museum presents memorabilia, player profiles, and the history of baseball in Japan. It includes a Hall of Fame honoring legendary players.
Edo Taitō Traditional Crafts Museum
Where: Asakusa, Taitō
Opening hours: 10 AM–8 PM, Closed Tuesdays
A showcase of traditional Tokyo crafts, such as woodblock prints, leatherwork, and decorative combs. The museum highlights artisan techniques and the heritage of Edo-era craftsmanship.
Tokyo Origami Museum
Where: Sumida, Tokyo
Opening hours: 9:30 AM–5 PM, Closed weekends and holidays
A colorful and creative museum dedicated to the art of paper folding. It features thousands of origami models and offers workshops for visitors to try the craft themselves.
Bunkyō Furusato Historical Museum
Where: Bunkyo, Tokyo
Opening hours: 10 AM–5 PM, Closed Mondays
This museum explores the local history and cultural heritage of the Bunkyō district. Exhibits include archaeological finds, traditional clothing, and historical maps.
The Sumida Hokusai Museum
Where: Sumida, Tokyo
Opening hours: 9:30 AM–5:30 PM, Closed Mondays
Dedicated to the world-famous ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai, this sleek museum showcases his prints, paintings, and the influence of his art on Japanese and global culture.
Museum of Health and Medicine
Where: Bunkyo, Tokyo
Opening hours: 9:30 AM–5 PM, Closed weekends and holidays
This museum focuses on medical science, health care, and public health in Japan. Interactive displays help visitors understand the human body, diseases, and treatments.
Tobu Museum
Where: Sumida, Tokyo
Opening hours: 10 AM–4:30 PM, Closed Mondays
This railway museum operated by Tobu Railway features historic trains, interactive exhibits, and simulators. It’s a family-friendly place where visitors can learn about the evolution of Japanese rail travel.
Mori Art Museum
Where: Roppongi Hills, Minato
Opening hours: 10 AM–10 PM, Closed Tuesdays
Located atop a skyscraper, the Mori Art Museum offers contemporary art exhibitions with a global perspective. The museum often features works by Japanese and international artists in rotating exhibits.
