JCII Camera Museum is a small museum in the basement of the JCII Ichibancho Building in Tokyo’s Hanzomon area, west of the Imperial Palace. Its collection follows the history of cameras, with a focus on Japanese TLR and SLR models, from early examples to digital cameras. Look for vintage equipment, rare promotional and prototype models, film canisters and flash bulbs. A few exhibits have hands-on demonstration units. Admission is ¥300, and the compact visit suits camera enthusiasts with about an hour to spare.
A history told through cameras
The collection spans early photographic equipment, vintage cameras and more recent digital models. Among the historic pieces is an 1839 Giroux daguerreotype, an early camera from the beginnings of photography.
Much of the exhibition follows the evolution of Japanese twin-lens reflex and single-lens reflex cameras. The displays include models associated with Canon and Nikon, as well as rare promotional pieces and prototypes.
Equipment beyond the cameras
The cases also hold film canisters, flash bulbs and technical instruments used in camera and lens making. A few demonstration units let visitors interact with some of the exhibits.
The museum is in the basement of the JCII Ichibancho Building in Hanzomon, west of the Imperial Palace. Its shop has a small selection of books and photography memorabilia.
Perguntas frequentes
How much is admission to the JCII Camera Museum?
Admission is ¥300.
Can you take photos inside the museum?
No. Photography and video are not allowed inside.
How long should I allow for a visit?
About an hour is enough for a short visit.
Where is the JCII Camera Museum?
It is in the basement of the JCII Ichibancho Building in Tokyo’s Hanzomon area, west of the Imperial Palace.
