Ueno Architecture Tour
Architectural Heritage Awaits
Ueno Architecture Tour
Journey Through the History of Japan's Modern Architecture
It’s not just a large park.
Ueno Park
Ueno Park is a great place to follow the footsteps of Japan’s Modern Architecture from the end of the 1800s until now.
We will start at the National Museum of Western Art, a Le Corbusier-designed museum that was designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site for its modern architectural value in 2016.
Tokyo Bunka Kaikan, located just opposite the Le Corbusier museum, was designed by Kunio Maekawa, one of the three Japanese apprentices of Le Corbusier.
At the graceful Tokyo National Museum complex, you can admire four great architectural works (Hyokei-kan, Hon-kan, Toyo-kan, and the Gallery of Horyuji Treasures) that reflect the design of the era from 1908 to 1999.
The International Library of Children’s Literature is a hidden gem. Not many people know that you can enjoy Tadao Ando’s renovation work in this famous park. Can you guess which part is his work?
Don’t miss the mesmerizing spiral staircase in Tokyo Bunka Kaikan at the end of the tour!
Tour Detail
Duration
3.5hours by walking.
We love exploring on foot because there are so many things we can find. During the tour, we'll stop by a local cafe for a short break.
Starting at 10:00am and 1:00pm.
What's included
- A tour by local architecture expertise guide
- Cozy pause with drinks along the way
What's not included
- Hotel pick up and drop off
This tour is specially suitable for
This is a great walking tour for those who are curious to learn about the deeper layers of Ueno Park's architecture.
Meeting Point
In front of the National Museum of Western Art.
A minute walk after getting out from JR Ueno Station, Park gate.
Tour Itinerary
10:00am/1:00pm- Tour Start
We will commence our tour with a visit to the 19th-century Hall of the National Museum of Western Art, the sole work by Le Corbusier in Japan. Following this, we will proceed to the Tokyo National Museum, which stands impressively before the fountain plaza of Ueno Park. Within this esteemed institution, we will explore the architectural marvels of Hyokei-kan, Hon-kan, Toyo-kan, and the Gallery of Horyuji Treasures.
Our journey will culminate at the International Library of Children's Literature, a hidden gem where the resonance of past and present architectural styles is palpably felt.
Last but not least, we will conclude our tour at Tokyo Bunka Kaikan, the music hall in front of the National Museum of Western Art, where you can feel the tribute to Le Corbusier in every little detail.
Upon concluding the tour, our guide will offer tailored recommendations to ensure you continue to enjoy the many delights of Ueno Park.
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13:30pm/4:30pm -Tour Finish
The tour concludes at JR Ueno Station.
Important Notice: Heat Stroke Alert
For guests joining our tour in July, August, and September:
Tokyo summers can be extremely hot and humid, and we prioritize your comfort and safety. We strongly advise against pushing yourself in the heat to prevent any risk of heat-related illness. Depending on the day’s conditions, our walking tour itinerary may be adjusted to include more indoor visits or alternative neighborhoods using taxis or trains. If we determine that changes are necessary, your guide will explain and propose the alternative itinerary before the tour begins to ensure you are comfortable and agreeable.
In monitoring government heat stroke alerts closely, if an alert is issued for your tour day, we will notify you the day before. Should you decide to cancel the tour due to climate conditions at that point, we will provide a full refund.
Please also consider arranging a private vehicle, which allows you to enjoy the view from the car while also making visits inside buildings.
Your safety is our priority, and we want you to enjoy your experience with peace of mind.
