In Komaba, the Japan Folk Crafts Museum presents mingei, the art of everyday objects made by ordinary craftspeople. Founded in 1936 by Yanagi Sōetsu, it holds works including ceramics, textiles, jewellery and sculpture from Japan and other countries. The collection is displayed inside a traditional Japanese building, whose preserved design is part of the visit. Take time to look closely at the details in each piece, then browse the craft shop. The museum is a quiet stop for anyone interested in handmade objects and Japanese design.
The mingei collection
The museum was established in 1936 by Yanagi Sōetsu, a philosopher associated with the mingei movement. Mingei focuses on handcrafted work made by ordinary people, and the museum’s collection includes ceramics, textiles, jewellery and sculpture. It holds more than 17,000 works from Japan and other countries.
Exhibitions change, so the objects on view can vary. Some displays have included Korean folk art and Imari ware. Take time to notice the materials, patterns and small details across the pieces.
A traditional building
The museum occupies a Japanese-style building established in 1936. You remove your shoes before entering, so socks are useful. Photography is not allowed inside.
Explanations for objects are limited in English, which can make their background harder to follow. A guided tour is one way to get more context. Lockers are available, with a 100-yen coin needed to use them. A craft shop is at the end of the visit.
Perguntas frequentes
How long does a visit take?
About one hour is enough for the relatively small collection.
Do you have to remove your shoes?
Yes. Visitors take off their shoes before entering, so wear socks.
Can you take photographs inside?
No, photography is not permitted.
Are there English explanations?
English signage and translations are limited, so some objects may have little context in English.
