Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Don't Miss
Ancient Japanese Art
HONKAN ROOM 1-1
The Honkan is the first port of call for first-time visitors. On the 2nd floor, exhibi-
tions are arranged chronologically, starting with the ancient era. Here you'll see
clay works from the centuries before the rise of the imperial court and the arrival
of Buddhism - two historic milestones that forever changed the Japanese aesthet-
ic.
National Treasure Gallery
HONKAN ROOM 2
A single, superlative work from the museum's collection of 88 National Treasures
- perhaps a painted screen, or a gilded, hand-drawn
sutra
(Buddhist scripture) -
is displayed here in a serene, contemplative setting. National Treasure is the
highest distinction awarded to a work of art in Japan. Keep an eye out for others,
labeled in red, on display around the museum.
Art of the Imperial Court
HONKAN ROOM 3-2
The poetry scrolls and ornately decorated objects on display here - such as gilded
hand-mirrors and lacquer boxes - allude to the life of louche elegance led by cour-
tesans a thousand years ago.
Art of the Tea Ceremony
HONKAN ROOM 4
Contemplate the aesthetic of
wabi-sabi
- an aesthetic that favours simplicity, im-
perfection and a kind of flawed, raw beauty - in the vessels and utensils of the tra-
ditional tea ceremony.
Samurai Armour & Swords
HONKAN ROOMS 5 & 6
