CityBuddy
Sumida Hokusai Museum
Best time to visit
Mornings on weekdays offer smaller crowds and a quieter atmosphere, perfect for thoughtful viewing. Springtime adds mild weather and pleasant nearby park strolls.
Budget tips
Admission is reasonably priced with discounts for students and seniors; check for free entry days on local cultural celebration events. Combine your visit with a nearby museum pass to save on multiple entries.
Recommended for
Art enthusiasts, Cultural history lovers, Students and scholars, Photographers interested in traditional art
Plan your visit
1-2 hours
About
Quick facts: Hokusai's iconic artwork "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" is housed here alongside thousands of his sketches and paintings. The museum's architecture effortlessly blends modern design with traditional Japanese aesthetics, reflecting Hokusai's innovative spirit.
Highlights: Visitors can see delicate ukiyo-e prints up close under specialized lighting that reveals details invisible to the naked eye. A digital gallery lets you explore the life and inspirations of the artist through immersive multimedia displays, adding depth to the art.
Insider tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and standing during the exhibits.
- Photography is limited inside, but the exterior offers great photo spots with modern architectural lines.
- Avoid weekends and Japanese public holidays to skip long lines and busy galleries.
- Take notes or use the museum app to enhance understanding of complex artworks and historical contexts.
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Tokyo, Japan, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
