Edo Tokyo Museum

The Edo Tokyo Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the history of Tokyo, Japan. The museum showcases the history of the city from its Edo period (1603-1868) to its modern-day development. The museum is located in the Sumida Ward of Tokyo and is easily accessible via public transportation. In this article, we will explore the history and exhibits of the Edo Tokyo Museum in detail.

History of the Edo Tokyo Museum:

The Edo Tokyo Museum was established in 1993, and its purpose is to preserve and showcase the history of Tokyo. The museum is located in the Ryogoku district, which was once a hub for sumo wrestling, and is adjacent to the Kokugikan Sumo Arena. The building itself is a work of art, with its striking design resembling a futuristic building. The architect, Kiyonori Kikutake, drew inspiration from the traditional Japanese storehouse, known as a kura.

Exhibits at the Edo Tokyo Museum:

The Edo Tokyo Museum has a vast collection of exhibits that showcase the history of Tokyo from its early days to the present. The exhibits are divided into several categories, which include:

• The Edo Zone: The Edo Zone showcases the history of Tokyo during the Edo period, which lasted from 1603 to 1868. Visitors can see models of the city during this period, including Edo Castle, the Tokaido Road, and the Nihonbashi Bridge. The exhibits also showcase the daily life of the people of Edo, including their homes, clothing, and occupations.
• The Tokyo Zone: The Tokyo Zone showcases the history of Tokyo from the Meiji period (1868-1912) to the present day. Visitors can see models of the city during this period, including Tokyo Tower and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. The exhibits also showcase the daily life of the people of Tokyo during this period, including their homes, clothing, and occupations.

• The Permanent Exhibition: The Permanent Exhibition showcases the history of Tokyo from its earliest days to the present. The exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and models that tell the story of the city’s development. Visitors can see models of Tokyo during the Edo period, as well as models of the city during World War II.

• Special Exhibitions: The museum also hosts special exhibitions that showcase various aspects of Tokyo’s history and culture. These exhibitions change regularly, so visitors can always expect something new and exciting.

Overall, the exhibits at the Edo Tokyo Museum provide visitors with an in-depth look at the history of Tokyo and its people. The museum is a great place to learn about the city’s past and to gain a better understanding of its present.

Interactive Exhibits at the Edo Tokyo Museum:

The Edo Tokyo Museum is not just a place to view exhibits; it is also a place to interact with history. The museum has several interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience life in Tokyo during different periods.

• The Edo Town: The Edo Town exhibit is a recreation of a town during the Edo period. Visitors can walk through the town and see the various shops and homes that were common during this period. The exhibit includes a rice shop, a sake shop, and a kabuki theater.
• The Tokyo Shop: The Tokyo Shop exhibit is a recreation of a department store during the Meiji period. Visitors can browse through the various departments and see the products that were available during this period. The exhibit includes a clothing department, a toy department, and a food department.
• The Earthquake Simulation: The Earthquake Simulation exhibit is a popular interactive exhibit that allows visitors to experience what it was like during the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923.

The exhibit includes a recreated street scene that shakes and rumbles, simulating the intense shaking that occurred during the earthquake. Visitors can also learn about the measures that were taken to rebuild the city after the disaster.

• The Kabuki Theater: The Kabuki Theater exhibit is a recreation of a kabuki theater during the Edo period. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of kabuki theater and even try on costumes and props to get a feel for what it was like to be a kabuki performer.
• The Virtual Reality Experience: The museum also has a virtual reality experience that allows visitors to explore Tokyo during different periods. The experience includes a virtual tour of Edo Castle during the Edo period and a virtual tour of Tokyo Tower during the present day.

The interactive exhibits at the Edo Tokyo Museum provide visitors with a unique and immersive experience. They allow visitors to step back in time and experience life in Tokyo during different periods.

Other Facilities at the Edo Tokyo Museum:

In addition to the exhibits, the Edo Tokyo Museum has several other facilities that make it a great place to visit.

• Museum Shop: The museum shop offers a wide range of souvenirs and gifts, including books, postcards, and traditional Japanese crafts.

• Restaurant: The museum has a restaurant that serves traditional Japanese dishes and offers a great view of the Sumida River.
• Event Spaces: The museum has several event spaces that can be rented out for conferences, seminars, and other events.
• Guided Tours: The museum offers guided tours in English, Japanese, and other languages. These tours provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the exhibits and the history of Tokyo.

Conclusion:

The Edo Tokyo Museum is an excellent destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Tokyo. The museum offers a wide range of exhibits that showcase the city’s development from its early days to the present. The interactive exhibits provide visitors with a unique and immersive experience, allowing them to step back in time and experience life in Tokyo during different periods. The museum’s facilities, including the restaurant and event spaces, make it a great place to spend the day. Overall, the Edo Tokyo Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Tokyo.