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JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » Visit the best Japanese museums from home: Virtual tours

Visit the best Japanese museums from home: Virtual tours

June 15, 2022

Although you may not be planning to travel around Japan with a JR Pass for a while, it’s now possible to explore some of Japan’s best museums digitally and get a good idea of what to expect when you do arrive.

It’s now entirely possible to visit a range of galleries and museums in Japan online via offer a virtual exhibition tour, simply by using the Google Arts & Culture Street View from the comfort of your sofa .

See below for a full guide to some of the best Japanese Museums and what they offer on a virtual tour.

Adachi Museum of Art

Located in Shimane Prefecture, this museum has been dedicated to promoting modern Japanese art since it opened in 1970. The museum is especially famous for its stunning gardens , designed by founder Zenko Adachi, which rank among the best public gardens in Japan .

The museum itself is home to a wide range of modern art from Japan, including a large number of works by famed artist Taikan Yokoyama .

Art lovers can now view over 140 pieces of the Adachi collection from home through the Google Art & Culture Street View, as well as take a virtual tour of the award-winning gardens.

Chihiro Art Museum

Located in the Nerima Ward of Tokyo, this small gallery displays the colorful pastel art of renowned illustrator Chihiro Iwasaki , as well as several other Japanese children’s book artists.

Perfect for kids , the upbeat work of Iwasaki frequently features depictions of flowers and children, and the museum has welcomed over 2 million guests since opening in 1970. Traveling Chihiro Exhibitions have accumulated an additional 2 million visitors across Japan.

It makes sense, then, that the museum now operates a virtual tour of 3 exhibitions that shows off some of Iwasaki’s best art online.

Fukuoka Asian Art Museum

This museum in Fukuoka aims to underline the difference between Asian and Western art and accentuate the unique charm of art culture from a range of countries across Asia.

Lovers of Asian art can now explore the collection from home, as the museum has now launched a virtual tour of over 150 pieces , a generous sample of work which takes in a variety of mediums.

Those who wish to learn about Fukuoka itself, as well as the vibrant culture of the island of Kyushu, are also able to do so virtually via a tour of the Fukuoka City Museum .

Kyoto National Museum

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Kyoto , the city’s National Museum features over 8,000 artworks and a range of both temporary and permanent exhibitions with a focus on pre-modern Japanese art .

Kyoto National Museum is one of the oldest and largest in Japan with a collection including almost 200 Important Cultural Properties and 29 National Treasures.

Nevertheless, it has recently fully come into the modern age with the launch of an online gallery including over 200 pieces of art.

Kyoto Prefectural Domoto Insho Museum of Fine Art

Another important museum located in Kyoto city , this Japanese fine gallery was established in 1966 to display the art of Insho Domoto , widely considered to be one of the best painters from Japan .

In addition to displaying a range of Domoto’s abstract paintings , the museum’s interiors and exteriors also happened to have been designed by the artist himself.

Lovers of the artist’s work, including his masterpiece, can now take a virtual tour online to both discover a variety of Domoto’s revered paintings and marvel at his superior architectural design.

Ohara Museum of Art

Located just a 2-minute walk from the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter in Okayama Prefecture , the Ohara Museum of Art was inaugurated in 1930 as the first permanent collection of Western artwork in Japan .

Although the museum’s collection was initially exclusively composed of 19th and 20th-century French paintings and sculptures, it now includes works from a variety of international artists , including world-famous American and Italian painters.

Important pieces of art by Gauguin, Picasso, and Monet can all be found in the museum, and over 40 works from the collection can now be viewed on an online tour .

Miraikan, also known as the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation , opened in 2001 and is located in Tokyo’s Odaiba district .

The aim of Miraikan is to allow visitors to explore modern technology , the environment, life science, and space exploration through hands-on contact and a range of interactive exhibitions .

Fans of science all over the globe are now able to explore the exhibitions online , including microcomputers and a range of robots to tiny computers, on Miraikan’s Google Arts & Culture page.

National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo

This Tokyo museum was opened as the first national space for art in Japan in 1952 and features a range of work dating from the Meji Period to the present day,

The large collection includes a number of illustrations by Shohachi Kimura and Eisaku Wada’s ‘Old Woman’ oil painting, as well as several works by renowned Japanese abstract artists.

The museum has also decided to display a large portion of its collection on Google Street View, including over 120 Nihonga (Japanese-style paintings).

National Museum of Nature and Science

Located in Tokyo’s Ueno Park , Japan’s National Museum of Nature and Science is the largest in the country and boasts a range of interactive scientific experiments as well as several natural history exhibitions.

Like many other museums in Ueno, they have recently chosen to implement a virtual tour of 2 exhibitions , the Global Gallery, and the Japan Gallery.

Combined, these online galleries offer visitors over 300 museum pieces to explore, including a number of animal skeletons and taxidermy specimens housed in the collection.

Tokyo Museum of Western Art

Another gallery located in the museum and zoo complex in Ueno Park, the National Museum of Western Art in Tokyo was founded in 1959 and remains an extremely popular attraction in the city, attracting well over 1 million yearly visitors.

The only national institution devoted to Western art in Japan , the museum was established around the collection of Matsukata Kojiro. This wealthy businessman devoted his lift and fortune to provide the Japanese public with opportunities to appreciate works ranging from the Renaissance to the early 20th century .

Tokyo National Museum

Japan’s oldest national museum , dating back to 1872, contains both a large collection of artwork from Japan and from other Asian countries.

One of the biggest art galleries in the whole world, the National museum boasts over 100,000 pieces including 89 Japanese national treasures. It mostly focuses on displaying ancient and medieval Japanese art, as well as Greco-Buddhist artifacts.

Tottori Sand Museum

Nestled among the Tottori Sand Dunes in Tottori Prefecture, Japan’s only art space dedicated to sand sculptures features both an open-air sculpture museum and the world’s first permanent indoor exhibition hall honoring the craft.

The museum’s online exhibition space contains an extensive archive of some of the greatest works created in Tottori by the best sand artists in the world .

The ever-changing displays including sculptures of famous architecture such as the Taj Mahal and Saint Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.

Unko Museum Tokyo

Fan all of the things kitsch will be overjoyed to learn that Tokyo has its very own museum exclusively dedicated to poop , located in the Odaiba district, which has become one of Japan’s most buzzed-about attractions.

Unko is ‘poo’ in Japanese meaning that this candy-colored space is fully committed to providing a range of poop-themed interactive games and challenges, as well as a gift-shop fully stocked with toilet-themed goods.

Spurred on by the coronavirus pandemic, they have also created an extensive online space to help beat boredom during the quarantine. This cheeky electronic museum features an interactive chat where you can talk to the sentient Unko mascot, Unberto, as well as a gallery of toilet art created by celebrities .

Unberto is also hosting regular live sessions on Unko Museum’s official Instagram page to answer any questions about bowel movements his fans may have.

Yamatane Museum of Art

Located in Tokyo’s Shibuya district , the Yamatane Museum of Art was established as the first museum dedicated to Nihonga and watercolor paintings in Japan in 1966.

Founder Taneji Yamazaki donated his own extensive collection of Japanese art to the space, including a number of paintings designated as an “object of national cultural significance”.

The museum has also made a large part of its collection available online, including over 50 items on Google Art & Culture Street View.

This virtual exhibition includes several paintings of traditionally dressed Japanese women by the respected artist and activist Uemura Shōen , as well as a huge range of spectacular landscapes dating back to the Edo period.

Osamu Tezuka Museum

The Osamu Tezuka Manga Museum, located in the city of Takarazuka, north of Osaka prefecture , is dedicated to what is considered by many to be the “ father of manga “.

In this museum we can see photos of the artist himself, as well as his first illustrations. There is also a series of Astro Boy anime video clips, where you can see how animation has evolved over the decades .

Rember that you easily find many of the virtual tours offered by museums in Japan by browsing the Google Arts and Culture Page .

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Stuck at Home? 11 Virtual Tours for Enjoying Japan

Beat social distancing and experience a new side of Japan

Let the power of technology, like virtual museum tours or live video feeds, decide where to visit on your next holiday—or help you pass your time during a spot of social distancing as coronavirus worries continue.

Whether you’re already in Japan, scratching your head because of the closed attractions or still planning your next trip, these fantastic e-tours and live feeds will help you pass the time and maybe even add a few new places to your bucket list.

Show your support! Like many businesses affected by social distancing, a number of places around Japan are seeing fewer visitors than before —if you've already visited yourself, help others by leaving a review to guide others where to go on a future trip! Find a place

Tokyo National Museum

Located in beautiful Ueno Park in Tokyo, you can see works of art and antiques from Japan and other Asian countries. Check out their online exhibit, “ Maple Viewers ”, which beautifully depicts the Kiyotaki River north of Kyoto in autumn and the people enjoying the foliage of the season.

You can also visit their virtual museum to see paintings, sculptures, and many other wonderful works of art and history with museum explanations for each one. Why not take a tour of the Tokyo National Museum from the comfort of your home or hotel room?

• 13-9 Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-8712
• 9:30 - 21:00 (Open Now)

National Museum of Nature and Science

Nearby Tokyo National Museum, Ueno's National Museum of Nature and Science has also launched its own 3D/VR experience to allow viewers to discover inside the museum without actually stepping foot in Japan. Explore both the Japan pavilion and the Global pavilion in great detail thanks to high-resolution imagery and the ability to navigate around the museum freely. Find the full expeeirnce on the dedicated VR site from the comfort of your home.

Sapporo Maruyama Zoo

Take a walk on the wild side at the Sapporo Maruyama Zoo ’s animal video page ! You can see the snow monkeys, giraffes, beavers, hippos, wolves, and more. Even better, the videos are updated often and show you the living quarters of each animal as well as some very cute video shots. Kids and parents alike are sure to love this “day at the zoo”.

Tokyo Fuji Art Museum

On this virtual tour from Tokyo Fuji Art Museum , you get to experience the walk to the museum as well! Go on a walk from the station to the hallways of some of the world’s most enchanting artworks, some dating back to the Renaissance and Baroque periods. You’ll find not only Japanese masterpieces here, but also Eastern and Western artworks from around the world. From fine art to blacksmithing pieces of antiquity, you’re in for a treat at the Tokyo Fuji Art Museum.

The Kyoto Distillery

Looking for something a little more mature? How about a gin distillery online tour of Kyoto Distillery? On this virtual tour, you can explore the warehouse floor of a live distillery and see how the process works from start to finish. Even better, the tour contains interactive exhibits that explain the distilling process. Explore this pristine distillery and learn about the process behind their Ki No Bi dry gin—after you’re done, why not order a bottle and try a mixed drink gin recipe .

Tokyo Rail Tracks

For fans of trains and city life, be sure to check out this live feed of Tokyo’s railways. Available rain or shine, at all times of the day, watch the trains snake by from 4:30 am to 1:10 am. This station services ten different lines. The skyscrapers and roadways in the back are just as grand to watch, especially at sunset and night, when the bright landscape flickers with night lights of the city. The trains clacking on the rails also makes for a relaxing white noise and gives you a sense of Tokyo’s magnitude.

Fujisan Watcher

Missed out on your chance to hike the majestic and iconic peak of Japan? Well, don’t worry. With Fujisan Watcher ’s live feed from multiple sources, you can see just about every side of Mount Fuji at any time of the day. Clear days and sunset are especially beautiful to see the snow-capped mountain. Who knows? It might even help you decide which side of Mount Fuji you like best and where to stay next time you’re in the area.

Chidorigafuchi Sakura Blossoms

Ah, springtime in Japan. It’s the season for cherry blossoms—but what if you can’t make it during the short window when the flowers are blooming? Why just check out this live YouTube feed from Chidorigafuchi Park and watch the delicate flowers from bud to full bloom. The park-and-moat scenery is relaxing and you’d never guess it was in the heart of Tokyo.

Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park

Ever wanted to see those little red-faced snow monkeys as they relax in the hot spring waters of Jigokudani Yaen Park ? Well, thanks to this live feed , you can! You might get lucky and get the little creatures when they’re in for a dip. The Japanese macaques have a higher chance of being in the hot springs on cold days but they can often still be seen playing around the area. They’re especially active at feeding time.

• 6845, Hirao, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano, 〒381-0401
• 8:30 - 17:00 (Open Now)

Fun with the kids

If you’re looking for a way to engage the little ones of your house, look no farther than Kids Web Japan . The whole family can learn about Japan and the people, culture, and history. Try to cook some recipes for an especially fun way to pass the time together. You’re sure to find a new favorite food for you and the whole family.

Tokyo Tower

The romance of Tokyo Tower is something that draws hundreds to visit the tower every day. But with social distancing on the rise during COVID-19, you may find yourself far from your dreams of dizzying heights. With this Google Streetview-like tour of the inside, you can be whisked hundreds of meters into the air and "walk" around the interior of Tokyo Tower. See the Tokyo skyline for yourself!

• 4-2-8 Shiba-Koen, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan 105-0011
• 9:00 - 23:00 (Open Now)
• ¥900 - ¥2800

Hopefully, by visiting some of these spots you can shake off winter blues or the stir craze from quarantine. It's a great thing to see so many entertainment and learning facilities come together to offer virtual tours and online feeds to would-be guests, especially during these difficult times.

Be sure to check out what's nearby for even more possible online and virtual tours. And who knows? Perhaps now that you've seen them online, you'll be inspired to visit in-person next time you have a chance!

Japan Travel at Home

Japan Travel has launched a great new service, Japan Travel at Home , that allows you to experience Japan from the comfort of your home in an online environment. Choose from one of the amazing tours on offer and explore Japan—even go shopping and have your purchases sent to your home—with knowledgeable guides in real-time!

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By Serena Ogawa

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Art & Culture

Here Are The Japanese Museums You Can Visit Virtually Now

April 22, 2020 Updated On April 26, 2021

Museums were among the first institutions to be hit by the coronavirus outbreak. In less than a month after WHO declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic, we sat and witnessed with fear how art institutions around the world cut their business hours before eventually closing their doors for an indefinite period of time.

Japan isn’t an exception. Museums and galleries with a floor space exceeding 1000 square meters were instructed to close temporarily or suspend any ongoing exhibitions under the country’s declaration of a state of emergency. Smaller museums were encouraged to do the same, leaving millions of art fans with yet another cultural deprivation amid the pandemic.

Thanks to Google Art And Culture and other individual initiatives, however, we can still visit many of Japan’s museums — from the comfort of our bed or living rooms. So if you’re a fellow art lover, here is a list of museums, galleries and institutions in Japan that have embraced the digital #stayhome trend and are inviting you to visit their exhibitions virtually. The best thing? This is probably the first time you can “bring” food into a museum!

For museums marked with “*,” enable Street View for the ultimate virtual tour experience. 

Japanese, Asian & Western Art  

From oil paintings to marble sculptures, it goes without saying that visual arts are by far the most accessible of exhibitions online. Whether you’re interested in ukiyo-e or watercolor, you’ll find some inspiration at any of the following virtual museums.

Chihiro Art Museum

The Chihiro Art Museum is a small gallery in Tokyo’s Nerima Ward dedicated to illustrator Chihiro Iwasaki (1918-1974), who was famous for her paintings and illustrations of flowers and children. Her world of happy pastel colors is equally soothing and captivating. Chihiro Art Museum’s virtual tour features three exhibitions, including some of Iwasaki’s most famous works.

Fukuoka Art Museum

From traditional Japanese screens to modern art, the Fukuoka Art Museum is a one-stop option for all fields of the visual arts. Enjoy Nihonga, Tomita Kaisen’s scroll paintings and more.

Fukuoka Asian Art Museum *

Dedicated to modern Asian art, this museum is a great resource for those interested in seeing what modern art looks like across Asia.

Fukuoka City Museum *

Learn more about Fukuoka City and the rich culture of Kyushu. The museum’s online repertoire includes an interesting variety of Noh masks, for all your theater fans out there.

Keio University Library

While not exactly a museum, the Keiko University Library has a few unique ukiyo-e online exhibitions, including a fun virtual exhibition on “Tokyo through funny food ukiyo-e.”

Kobe City Museum *

This museum offers an extensive collection of traditional Japanese art.

Kyoto National Museum

This museum’s online works focus on Edo-period art and relics.

Kyoto Prefectural Domoto-Insho Museum of Fine Arts *

Insho Domoto was a popular Nihonga artist in the 20th century. This museum is dedicated to his art and features everything from Japanese screens to paintings.

Mie Prefectural Art Museum *

This Kansai museum boasts a collection that ranges from traditional Japanese art to modern portraits.

MOA Museum of Art

This museum is one of the few institutions on this list that focuses on Rinpa, one of the major historical schools of Japanese painting.

The Museum of Modern Art, Gunma *

The Museum of Modern Art, Gunma offers an extensive collection of modern art, with a special selection of impressionist and post-impressionist works.

The Museum of Modern Art, Saitama *

For a unique curation of modern Japanese art, look no further.

The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo *

This museum’s online collection has a healthy mix of modern and contemporary European and Japanese art.

The National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo *

Of course, you might be interested in non-Japanese art, as well. The National Museum of Western Art is perfect for that, boasting a collection that focuses on European and North American artists.

Shizuoka City Tokaido Hiroshige Museum of Art *

Fans of ukiyo-e will fall in love with this museum’s online exhibitions.

Shizuoka Prefectural Museum of Art *

You’ll find a little bit of everything here, but mostly beautiful landscapes, some featuring beloved Fuji-san.

Tokyo Fuji Art Museum *

This museum has a couple of currently ongoing online exhibitions featuring Chinese ceramics, Renaissance paintings and more.

Tokyo National Museum *

For everything to do with traditional Japanese art, from ancient pottery to Edo prints, this is the place.

Textiles, historical garments, kimono, colors…you name it. The following virtual tours teach you everything about Japan’s relationship with fashion and its appreciation of western fashion, too.

Kioi Art Gallery *

Discover the art of Ise-katagami, the Japanese craft of making paper stencils for dyeing textiles.

Kobe Fashion Museum *

Explore European and Japanese fashion history, the trends of the last century, as well as this port city’s contemporary pursuit of style.

The Kyoto Costume Institute *

See the influence of Japanese fashion around the globe and learn about fashion history.

Pottery & Ceramics 

Japan is a country that still embraces the beauty of pottery and ceramics. There are plenty of places around the country that are well worth the trip if you love tableware (What I’d give to go back to Arita !), but in the meantime, here a few virtual options:

The Museum of Oriental Ceramics, Osaka

See a selection of ceramics and porcelain pieces from Japan and China.

Sagawa Art Museum *

This museum, located in Moriyama, is home to some of the most amazing Raku ware, a type of Japanese pottery traditionally used during tea ceremonies. Many of the museum’s collections can be seen online.

Sekido Museum of Art

The ceramics on display at the Sekido Museum of Art come in interesting shapes and are often decorated with intricate and eccentric patterns. A must-browse for anybody who loves colorful ware.

Museum of the Sakitama Ancient Burial Mounds *

If you love Japanese history, particularly the Yayoi, Kofun and Asuka periods, you’ll love this online collection of Haniwa relics.

Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum

This museum has a haunting collection of photographs documenting the damage of the August 9, 1945 atomic bombing that destroyed much of the city.

National Museum of Nature and Science *

For those interested in anthropology and natural history, check out this Ueno staple.

Sankeien Garden *

The famous Sankeien Gardens aren’t a museum per se, but if you’ve been wanting to go on a stroll through a Japanese garden, look no further!

Tachibana Museum *

The works exhibited at the Tachibana Museum were passed down to the Tachibana family that controlled the Yanagawa clan throughout the Edo period. For those who like history, this is an absolutely fascinating stop on your virtual museum journey.

Last but not least, you can also enjoy the architecture of some of Japan’s most beautiful museums and buildings through  Google Street View  — a fantastic way to explore cities around the globe in times of confinement. One of our favorite Tokyo spots that you can visit virtually if you love neo-Baroque style architecture is the  Akasaka Palace .* 

We hope you’re already making to-see lists for your next museum virtual tour. Enjoy!

In the featured image: The Tokyo National Museum 

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[Traveling Without Leaving Home] 360° Virtual Tours of Japan

COVID claustrophobia is getting to all of us. It’s still going to be a while before we can safely hop on a plane, but in the meantime, a virtual tour is the next best thing. Discover Japan’s highlights, including world-class museums and UNESCO World Heritage sites, and prime yourself for the adventures you can have when restrictions ease.

Temples and Shrines

Go on a spiritual pilgrimage to two legendary World Heritage sites, revered for their impressive architecture and picturesque natural settings.

Nara Prefecture – Todaiji Temple

Visit Todaiji Temple in Nara Prefecture from your armchair through this 360-degree virtual tour. The temple is one of Japan’s grandest, with beautiful architecture and expansive grounds. The temple was commissioned in the 8th century and served as the head temple for the Buddhist faith in Japan. Todaiji plays a major role in Japanese history and is a popular attraction for anyone exploring Japan’s ancient capital of Nara.

The virtual tour begins at the Great South Gate, an imposing wooden structure guarded by the fearsome “Ni-o (Two Kings) of Todaiji.” Follow the pathway to the Daibutsu-den, a giant hall that is one of the world's largest wooden structures. The scale of the hall is impressive despite being rebuilt two-thirds smaller in the Edo period (1603–1867). The hall houses an enormous statue of Buddha that dates to 752. Scroll left and right to see other Buddhist artworks including two golden bodhisattva sculptures and a heavenly guardian.

You can explore much of the spacious temple precincts on your virtual visit, and the high-quality images give you an excellent idea of the scale and beauty of Todaiji. However, something you can’t experience on the tour is Nara’s famous deer. When you visit in person, expect to meet wild deer roaming the grounds. They are regarded in Japan as messengers of the gods, and there are many in and around Nara Park .

Hiroshima Prefecture – Miyajima and Itsukushima-jinja Shrine

Virtually visit an island that was once considered so sacred that people weren’t permitted to live there. Miyajima , near Hiroshima City , is a revered Shinto site best known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Itsukushima-jinja Shrine and iconic torii gate. The gate, which appears to float on the water, is just one part of the impressive shrine complex you can explore on your virtual tour.

Begin with a bird’s eye view of the shrine grounds and zoom in on the section you want to see. Make sure to drag the map to find the “floating” gate, which is set off from the main shrine buildings. Each section is accompanied by a short English blurb and high-quality panoramic images. The site’s location is a large part of the appeal. Lofty Mt. Misen overlooks it, and some of the vermillion-lacquered shrine buildings sit on stilts in the Seto Inland Sea. You can get a closer view of all of these on the tour.

The Shrine complex is undergoing restoration work in advance of the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics, which are now due to be held in 2021.

Freely explore a stunning underground Natural Monument and an idyllic traditional village – without the crowds.

Gifu Prefecture – Shirakawa-go

Take a virtual stroll through one of Japan’s most charming traditional villages. Shirakawa-go , in the mountains in the remote Shogawakyo Valley , has more gassho-zukuri farmhouses than anywhere else in Japan. The name gassho-zukuri, meaning “praying hands,” comes from the distinctive shape of their steep thatched roofs.

The remarkable 19th-century houses, built without nails, are considered a feat of Japanese architecture. They were built to quickly shed snow and provided a large attic space for cultivating silkworms. This picturesque village is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, and many of the houses now function as museums.

The 360-degree virtual tour lets you wander among the houses and paddy fields in different seasons, which are lush and green in summer and thick with snow in winter. Let the tour whet your appetite for a real-life visit, when you can see the village lit up at night and bathe in the nearby onsen.

Okayama Prefecture – Makido Cave

Makido Cave is 450-meter-long limestone cavern formed over thousands of years by a steady drip of water. Thanks to this virtual tour, you can descend into the fantastical cave without even leaving your home.

Begin at the cave entrance before heading down to a world of stalactites, underground lakes, and dramatic rock formations. Virtually wander across bright red bridges and look out for interesting rock shapes, including a tall stack that resembles a five-story pagoda, and the “silver curtain”—a plunging wall of rock. The cave is illuminated, and you can opt to view the cave’s interior lit in different colors.

Visit in person and you can enjoy refreshing, year-round 15-degree temperatures. And one thing you can’t get from the virtual tour is the good luck you receive by throwing a coin in the spring pond.

Get an all-access pass to both the past and the future. Take a 3D walkthrough of two world-class exhibitions that explore where we’ve come from and where we’re going.

Tokyo – National Museum of Nature and Science

©Virtual Reality Innovation Organization

Japan’s National Museum of Nature and Science in Tokyo’s Ueno Park has opened its virtual doors to allow you to view a selection of its more than 25,000 exhibits in front of your computer screen. The wide-ranging exhibits cover everything from nature, history and people to some of Japan’s latest advances in technology.

The 3D virtual tour offers unlimited access to the museum’s artifacts in both the Global Pavillion  and the Japan Pavillion with a user-friendly interface. Click and move around the museum’s multiple floors and view dinosaur skeletons, taxidermic animals, nature and organisms of the Japanese islands and a floor dedicated to progress in science and technology.

When you visit the museum in person, be sure to try out the hands-on experiments with light, magnetism and electricity.

Tokyo – Mori Art Museum

You could visit Mori Art Museum on every trip you ever make to Tokyo , and it would never be the same twice. This beautifully curated contemporary art museum in the heart of Tokyo has an astounding line-up of exhibitions. Its current show, “Future and the Arts: AI, Robotics, Cities, Life – How Humanity Will Live Tomorrow”, is a fitting exhibit for those wondering what the future holds.

Their 3D Walkthrough—available only until June 30th, 2020—transports you to the museum, allowing you to “wander” through the galleries and linger to read the signage, which is all in both English and Japanese. The current exhibition features more than 100 projects and works in categories including “New Possibilities of Cities,” “Lifestyle and Design Innovations,” and “Society and Humans in Transformation.” Contemplate how cities, human lifestyles, and society are likely to be transformed through cutting-edge developments in science and technology, including AI, biotechnology, robotics, and AR (augmented reality), as well as art, design, and architecture. This glimpse of what the future may hold might renew your hope for it.

When you visit in person, check out Mori Art Museum’s latest exhibitions and visit Tokyo City View, an observation deck overlooking the city. You’ll need a separate ticket, but the views are worth it.

We can’t travel now, but these six virtual tours should inspire you to plan your Japan itinerary for when we can. For more inspiration, visit https://www.japan.travel/experiences-in-japan/en/ .

About the author

Kristopher Spencer is an American writer based in Bangkok, Thailand. His trips to Japan have always left him wanting more and writing about the Land of the Rising Sun now is providing plenty of inspiration for his post-pandemic travel itinerary. An avid photographer, Kristopher recommends Japan’s bright, bustling cityscapes and stunning natural vistas alike for all shutterbugs and social media connoisseurs.

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6 of the Best Japan Virtual Tours to Experience Right Now

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For many people, Japan is the destination of a lifetime that they just might not get to visit.

But if you can’t get to Japan right now, it doesn’t mean you can’t have an immersive experience that brings the iconic sights and destinations of Japan to you.

Virtual Japan tours were introduced during the 2020 pandemic but have continued to grow in popularity as a convenient way to experience world-class sights and attractions in Japan.

In this article, we share 6 of the best virtual Japan tours to experience right now. 

Table of Contents

When Japan closed its doors in 2020, virtual tours came to the rescue!

As a consequence of COVID-19, entry to Japan has been heavily restricted for over two years.

Not only were the numbers of foreign visitors slashed, domestic distancing protocols and regulations meant that the major attractions of Japan were shuttered for many months, creating a cultural dearth that the country is only just recovering from. 

Virtual tours were developed by Japanese museums, cultural sites, and independent content creators to remind the world what Japan has to offer.

These elaborate, high-definition video tours have used advanced technology to deliver immersive or augmented reality experiences that transport you to some of Japan’s most iconic landmarks. 

What is a virtual tour?

Virtual tours are multimedia simulations of real locations, composed of images, video, and audio.

It delivers detailed panoramas, 3D reconstructions, and 360-degree views that can be navigated using a computer mouse or, if compatible, a VR headset.

These tours have existed since the mid-1990s but became prominent in 2020 as a virtual travel solution for people who were made to stay home.

The following types of Japan virtual tours are available:

• Virtual tours of Japan
• Video tours of Japan
• VR Tours of Japan
• 360° virtual tours of Japan

Many of the best Japan virtual tours are virtual reality (VR) tours that have been specifically developed for viewing with a VR headset like the Oculus Quest VR headset.  

Virtual travel is one of the key applications of VR and the outstanding natural beauty, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture of Japan is perfect for this platform!

Why take a virtual tour of Japan?

Why not? Technology is able to bring the sights and sounds of the Land of The Rising Sun to anyone, anywhere in the world.

A virtual tour is perfect for:

• People who want to learn about Japan
• Someone who is planning a trip to Japan and need detailed information about specific locations
• Those who have a disability that may prevent access to certain attractions
• Folks miss Japan and want to return

6 of the best Japan virtual tours to experience right now!

These high-definition virtual tours include Japanese cultural landmarks, natural scenery and the lively atmosphere of urban living.

Enjoy these 6 outstanding virtual tours that make Japan only a click away. 

1. Wander downtown Takayama (高山) with an online tour 

This lively and informative virtual tour of the city of Takayama in Gifu prefecture takes in the home of sake.

The Takayama downtown online tour features Luca, a local guide who was inspired to create this popular virtual tour during the pandemic.

Post-2020, this tour available on Viator, has gone from strength to strength.

Join Luca for a 30-minute immersion in the history, architecture, and crafts of Takayama, including an introduction to sakè making.

Click here for the Takayama downtown online tour

2. Tour the Maki-do (満奇洞) Caves

The Maki-do Caves are a highlight of travel to Niimi, Okayama Prefecture. These limestone caves extend over 450 meters to a subterranean lake.

This Natural Monument of Okayama Prefecture named the Dream Palace is beautifully rendered in this virtual reality tour that is compatible with VR headsets.

Instructions and details of the cave are presented in English including details of open hours and entrance fees if you get the opportunity to visit the caves in person. 

Click here for the virtual tour of the Maki-do Caves 

3. Absorb the sights and sounds of Tokyo and the Tohoku region

The TOHOKU X TOKYO website is a site that promotes travel between Tokyo and the Tohoku region in northwestern Japan.

Alongside the travel reports and itineraries for these renowned regions, are some beautifully produced 360° virtual reality videos that give you a taste of the scenery, hospitality, and lifestyles in unusual northern cities like Aomori:

Click here for the Tokyo and the Tohoku 360° virtual reality videos

4. Explore Shirakawago village in Gifu Prefecture

Shirakawa-go a mountain village in Shogawakyo Valley is probably too remote for many tourists.

However, it is a beautifully preserved example of traditional Japanese architecture with the most gassho-zukuri farmhouses in Japan. 

This high-definition 360° virtual tour shows the detail of the deeply thatched roofs of these wooden houses that were built without nails.

This UNESCO World Heritage site can be virtually toured at different seasons, with soothing traditional music to accompany the VR video.

Click here for the virtual tour of Shirakawago village

Read Next 📖

• 5 Most Beautiful Villages In Japan

5. View exhibits at Japan’s National Museum of Nature and Science at home

The National Museum of Nature and Science in Tokyo has created one of the best virtual tours, with a 3D virtual tour that gives you access to over 25,000 exhibits from around the world.

You can choose to tour either the Global Pavillion or the Japan Pavilion, navigating around the various floors of the museum to take a closer look at the flora and fauna of the islands of Japan.

The museum also showcases the many Japanese advances in science and technology on a dedicated floor. 

Click here for the virtual tour of the National Museum of Nature and Science in Tokyo 

6. Explore the world of Geishas with a virtual walkthrough nighttime Gion

The winding alleyways of Gion district in Kyoto were made famous by the Oscar-winning film, ‘Memoirs of a Geisha.

This paid-for virtual tour is delivered live by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide. It is one of the most popular Japanese walking tours on TripAdvisor’s Viator platform, with over 214 4 and 5-star ratings.

You will join their walking tour that is being filmed in nighttime Gion, starting at Gion Omoide Museum. 

Click here for the Gion Walking Tour by Night 

Rounding Up 

Over the last three years, virtual tours have been a lifeline to the many people around the world who are interested in visiting Japan, but cannot get there.

Enterprising tour guides and attractions have harnessed technology to give you a great experience that brings you closer to parts of Japan you may not have seen before.

So next time you’re missing Japan, simply click and join one of these outstanding VR tours from the comfort of your own home!

About the author

Renee Christian

Renée Christian is a writer and long-standing travel enthusiast who enjoys learning about other countries, cultures, and foods! When she’s not perfecting a ramen bowl or tempura recipe in the kitchen, you’ll find her in her permaculture garden or trekking the nearest coastal path!

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Experience at Home! Kahaku VR

In order to bring the experience of the National Museum of Nature and Science to your home, we have produced high resolution images of our exhibits.

3D viewing and VR imaging provide a perfectly immersive experience, allowing you to feel as if you were actually visiting the National Museum of Nature and Science. Our exhibits can be enjoyed from the comfort of your home.

Special Exhibition

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*Special goggles are required to view the images in VR. However, 3D images can be enjoyed from your PC or smartphone.

※ Our museum guide (PDF) can be found here

Permission must be acquired from the museum in order to use the Kahaku VR images for any purpose other than personal use.

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9 Japanese Museums You Can Tour Virtually

Wander through these museums with Japanese treasures and renowned paintings right from your couch.

Many of Japan’s incredible museums and galleries are accessible online thanks to Google Arts & Culture . With Google Street View technology you can “walk” through halls by clicking through the passageways, teleport to different floors, and even zoom in on artifacts for a better look.

9 The National Museum of Western Art

Tokyo’s National Museum of Western Art in Ueno is not just a museum, but a renowned  UNESCO World Heritage Site . It’s also one of the only museums in Japan that focuses exclusively on Western art including works by Claude Monet and Vincent Van Gogh. Nearly 250 pieces are on display showcasing art from the Baroque, renaissance, and impressionist eras.

• Virtual Museum Link: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/the-national-museum-of-western-art

8 Tokyo National Museum

The Tokyo National Museum is a great introduction to Japanese art and craftsmanship. It’s home to dozens of national treasures and thousands of Japanese paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and more. Everyone will find something to enjoy here from samurai swords and Buddhist sculptures to Hokusai woodblock prints and everything in between.

• Virtual Museum Link: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/tokyo-national-museum

7 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

Dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in World War II, this museum displays the belongings and testimonies of the city’s resilient survivors. In the virtual collection, you’ll also see paintings made by survivors depicting the devastation they witnessed and photos of scorched artifacts picked out of the rubble, each with a real story of heartache and suffering. Even virtually, the displays offer a powerful reminder of Japan’s harrowing WWII history and the power of hope post-war.

• Virtual Museum Link: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/hiroshima-peace-memorial-museum

6 Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts

Everything we love about Kyoto and classic Japan can be found under one roof at the Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts. There are 74 different Japanese handicrafts preserved in this museum, including weaved baskets, braided cords (as seen in the movie Your Name ), paper lanterns, folded fans, and incense. If you visit in person you can book a craft workshop with a professional artisan.

• Virtual Museum Link: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/the-kyoto-museum-of-traditional-crafts

5 Museum of Oriental Ceramics

One of the finest ceramics collections in the world can be found in the Museum of Oriental Ceramics in Osaka, which showcases ancient Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and Persian earthenware. Two items here are considered national treasures, and thirteen are important cultural properties to Japan . In addition to bowls and vases, you can see statues, Chinese snuff boxes, and even sumo wrestling figurines from the 1680s.

• Virtual Museum Link: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/museum-of-oriental-ceramics

4 Tokugawa Art Museum

Tokugawa Ieyasu, who became the first shogun of Japan in the year 1600, had an extensive collection of treasures that were passed down through the Tokugawa clan for generations. This collection was used to form the Tokugawa Art Museum in 1935. The museum displays national treasures like the Tale of Genji , illustrated scrolls from the 12th century, as well as samurai helmets, armor, and swords.

• Virtual Museum Link: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/the-tokugawa-art-museum

3 Shohaku Art Museum

If you love beautiful Japanese-style paintings, you must visit the Shohaku Art Museum in Nara—even if only virtually. It showcases the art of Shoen, Shoko, and Atsushi Uemura, three generations of artists. Their modern Japanese-style paintings depict strong women and majestic animals in minimalist nature scenes. The paintings featured here attempt to connect modern Japan with oriental aesthetics.

• Virtual Museum Link: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/shohaku-art-museum

2 Wajima Museum of Urushi Art

The Wajima Museum of Urushi Art is the only museum in Japan that specializes in urushi (natural lacquer) art. Lacquer art is made from sap collected from urushi trees. It hardens into a clear coating after being processed and has been used to surface furnishings, utensils, and religious items for more than 9,000 years. At the Wajima Museum of Urushi Art website, you can tour both floors of the museum and view impressive collections of tiered boxes, soup bowls, sake wear, and more.

• Virtual Museum Link: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/WajimaMuseumofUrushiArt

1 Saitama Prefectural Museum of History and Folklore

The Saitama Prefectural Museum of History and Folklore features the history and culture of Saitama through the ages. The earliest relics include bone tools and accessories made 30,000 years ago when humans first inhabited the Japanese archipelago. More recent additions to the collection include painted folding screens depicting Edo-era conflict, and scenic ukiyo-e woodblock prints.

• Virtual Museum Link: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/saitama-prefectural-museum-of-history-and-folklore

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You can now visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum via virtual tour

To mark the 75th anniversary of the Hiroshima bombing, the museum has launched 3D renderings of its building and artefacts online

Hiroshima prefecture is a popular travel destination in Japan, widely celebrated for its Unesco World Heritage Sites and delicacies such as Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes). However, it also bears a heavy past: the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum stands as a monument to the tragedy and devastation caused by the world's first atomic bomb, dropped on August 6 1945 during World War II. 

The 75th anniversary of the bombing of Hiroshima takes place this August 6, but Japan’s travel restrictions due to the ongoing Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic have made it impossible for many people to visit the city and mark the occasion as planned. As a way to commemorate the anniversary while sustaining social distancing protocols, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum has partnered with international non-governmental organisations (NGOs) as well as Japanese and American artists to curate materials for a virtual tour of the museum so that people can still visit the site from home. 

The online tour consists of 3D renderings of the museum and its artefacts, including everyday objects which survived the bombing. The new online experience, complete with multimedia components, is available from August 6, which marks the anniversary of the bombing. The virtual tour, titled Future Memory ,  is available for free.

In addition, there's a video tour of the Peace Park on  YouTube , where the volunteer group Hiroshima Interpreters for Peace have uploaded a live-stream of the Hiroshima 75th anniversary event.  

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• Emma Steen Staff Writer, Time Out Tokyo

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Take a virtual tour of iconic Japanese attractions from your sofa and win money

Jun 4, 2020 • 2 min read

The sakura can be viiewed virtually © Ark Tui/500px

With the world on lockdown and travel restrictions in place due to COVID-19 , many of us are grounded at home for the foreseeable future. We can still explore virtually though, and can now enjoy a collection of virtual tours of 20 of Japan's top attractions created using Google Maps and Street View.

Curated by JRPass , the collection of tours will see viewers viewing the sakura, Japan's iconic cherry blossoms, and marvelling at the sunrise from the top of Mt Fuji. As an added bonus, one person will receive a cash reward if their review of one of the virtual tours is chosen as part of a social media competition.

Visitors can check out the recently renovated Himeji Castle , which is considered to be one of Japan's most beautiful castles, take a luxurious train ride, and attend the Saga Balloon Festival . Other experiences include taking a visit to a beautiful zen garden at the Adachi Museum of Art, and virtually walking through Tokyo's iconic Shibuya Crossing, where 2500 people usually cross at once. Happily this time they won't have to worry about social distancing.

Candidates interested in being chosen to be that the company is calling its "virtual travel tester" should post a throwback photo of themselves on holiday on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter using the hashtag #JapanVirtualTravel. They should share their review of at least one of the virtual travel locations from JRPass, and follow and tag @JRPass in the post. The successful applicant will be selected based on their review at the end of the application period, and will receive £200 (€223).

For the full virtual travel experience, see the JRPass blog post on the locations here .

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• Virtual Visits

Connect with JANM Virtually

Virtual visits use video conferencing technology to engage visitors and students in conversations surrounding JANM’s collections. These visits offer a new way to make sure that the important lessons of history are not forgotten.

Virtual visits must be booked a minimum of three weeks in advance. Virtual visits for grades 4–12 require pre-work with suggested time spent on the content in advance of the facilitated live experience. Pre-visit curriculum is vital in ensuring that the live video-conferencing session is spent on meaningful dialogue. Pre-work is designed to be completed either independently by students, or as a teacher-led lesson. Completion of a facilitated virtual visit reserved via the Education Unit is required in order to book a Q&A session with a first-person survivor of incarceration.

Higher education and adult groups can also book a virtual visit in English or Japanese. The presentations explore the Japanese American experience from the 1860s through the post-war era and can be tailored to particular areas of interest for students, seniors, and other groups. Companies can book a virtual visit for multicultural awareness or as part of their diversity and inclusion training.

Planning your visit

Plan a virtual visit to JANM to explore stories about the Japanese American experience.

Policies and Info

Have questions? Here are answers to the most common inquiries.

Financial Assistance

Financial assistance is available to qualifying schools and groups while funds last.

Virtual visits must be booked three weeks in advance.

Calendar of available dates

Download pricing sheet

Please note that availability, pricing, requirements, and options are subject to change.

If you have any questions, please email us at [email protected] . We are happy to help you!

Available Tours

Community and Culture: Grades 1-3 | 45 mins | Up to 60 participants (click for details)

Includes: Origami Tutorial , Introduction to Taiko , Storytelling ,

Available Monday-Friday with one morning and one afternoon availability each day

 A live origami tutorial that can easily be done with paper and materials found at home.

An introduction to taiko, the art of Japanese drumming.

A live and engaging retelling of a traditional Japanese folktale.

California Content Standards Alignments: CA HSS Content Standards: 1.5, 2.1, 3.3 CA HSS Analysis Skills (K-5): Chronological and Spatial Thinking 3; Research, Evidence, and Point of View 2 CA VAPA Content Standards: 1.MU:Pr6a, 1.MU:Pr6b, 2.MU:Pr6a, 2.MU:Pr6b, 3.MU:Pr6b, 1-3MU:Cn11 CA CCSS for ELA/Literacy: SL.1.1-4, 2.1-3, 3.1-3; RL.1.2-3, 1.7, 2.2-3, 2.7, 3.2-3, 3.7

Not in California? JANM virtual visits help students build a more inclusive understanding of American history, culture, and society while practicing important historical thinking and 21st century skills. This virtual visit option also aligns to the following Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts (CCSS.ELA-Literacy): SL.1.1-4, 2.1-3, 3.1-3; RL.1.2-3, 1.7, 2.2-3, 2.7, 3.2-3, 3.7

Let Curiosity Guide You: Grades 4-6 | 45 mins | Up to 60 participants (click for details)

Includes: Virtual Facilitated Discussion ,

This facilitated exploration of key artifacts, images, and documents from JANM’s on-going exhibition  Common Ground: The Heart of Community   provides students the opportunity to learn about and react to Japanese American history while honing critical thinking skills and engaging (verbally and non-verbally) in facilitated virtual discussion.

California Content Standards Alignments: CA HSS Content Standards: 4.4, 4.5.1, 5.7 CA HSS Analysis Skills (K-5): Chronological and Spatial Thinking 3; Research, Evidence, and Point of View 2 CA HSS Analysis Skills (6-8): Chronological and Spatial Thinking 1; Research, Evidence, and Point of View 1; Historical Interpretation 1, 2, 4 CA VAPA Content Standards: 5.VA:Pr6, 6.VA:Pr6 CA CCSS for ELA/Literacy: SL.4.1, 5.1, 6.1

Not in California? JANM virtual visits help students build a more inclusive understanding of American history, society, and democracy while practicing important historical thinking and 21st century skills. This virtual visit option also aligns to the following Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts (CCSS.ELA-Literacy): SL.4.1, 5.1, 6.1

The “Stuff” of History: Grades 7-12 | 45 mins | Up to 60 participants (click for details)

California Content Standards Alignments: CA HSS Content Standards: 8.2.6, 8.12.7, 10.3.4, 10.8, 11.7, 11.11.2, PAD 12.10 CA HSS Analysis Skills (6-8): Research, Evidence, and Point of View 4; Historical Interpretation 1 CA HSS Analysis Skills (9-12): Chronological and Spatial Thinking 1; Historical Research, Evidence, and Point of View 4; Historical Interpretation 1, 3, 4 CA VAPA Content Standards: Prof.VA:Pr6 CA CCSS for ELA/Literacy: SL.7.1-7.2, 7.4, 8.1, 8.4, 9-10.1, 9-10.4, 11-12.1, 11-12.4; RH.6-8.2, 9-10.2, 11-12.2, 11-12.9

Not in California? JANM virtual visits help students build a more inclusive understanding of American history, society, and democracy while practicing important historical thinking and 21st century skills. This virtual visit option also aligns to the following Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts (CCSS.ELA-Literacy): SL.7.1-7.2, 7.4, 8.1, 8.4, 9-10.1, 9-10.4, 11-12.1, 11-12.4; RH.6-8.2, 9-10.2, 11-12.2, 11-12.9

Through the Eyes of an Artist: Life in Camp: Grades 9-12 | 45 minutes | Up to 60 participants (click for details)

Includes: Art Discussion ,

Available Monday–Friday with one morning and one afternoon availability each day.

Explore JANM’s collection of fine art to examine four (4) pieces of art which depict the diverse experiences of life within America’s concentration camps. Through observation and discussion students will gain understanding, empathy and critical interpretation skills. 

Please make sure students are prepared with a piece of paper and a marker or pencil for sketching.

California Content Standards Alignments: CA HSS Content Standards: 10.8, 11.7 CA HSS Analysis Skills (9-12): Chronological and Spatial Thinking 1; Historical Research, Evidence, and Point of View 4; Historical Interpretation 1, 3, 4 CA Arts Standards: Prof.VA:Pr6, Acc.VA:Pr6, Prof.VA:Re7.1, Adv.VA:Re7.1, Acc.VA:Re7.2, Adv.VA:Re7.2, Prof.VA:Re8, Acc.VA:Re8, Adv.VA:Re8 CA CCSS for ELA/Literacy: SL.9-10.1, 9-10.4, 11-12.1, 11-12.4; RH.9-10.2, 9-10.6, 9-10.9, 11-12.2, 11-12.6, 11-12.9

Not in California? JANM virtual visits help students build a more inclusive understanding of American history, society, and democracy while practicing important historical thinking and 21st century skills. This virtual visit option also aligns to the following Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts (CCSS.ELA-Literacy): SL.9-10.1, 9-10.4, 11-12.1, 11-12.4; RH.9-10.2, 9-10.6, 9-10.9 11-12.2, 11-12.6, 11-12.9

YOUTH IN CAMP: COMING OF AGE BEHIND BARBED WIRE: Grades 7-12 | 45 minutes | Up to 60 participants (click for details)

Available Monday–Friday with one morning and one afternoon availability each day

Explore JANM’s collection of artifacts and learn about the daily lives of young Japanese Americans who came of age in America’s concentration camps. This visit provides students the opportunity to gain understanding, empathy, and critical interpretation skills through observation and discussion.

California Content Standards Alignments: CA HSS Content Standards: 8.2.6, 8.12.7, 10.3.4, 10.8, 11.7, 11.11.2, PAD 12.10 CA HSS Analysis Skills (6-8): Research, Evidence, and Point of View 4; Historical Interpretation 1 CA HSS Analysis Skills (9-12): Chronological and Spatial Thinking 1; Historical Research, Evidence, and Point of View 2, 4; Historical Interpretation 1, 3, 4 CA VAPA Content Standards: Prof.VA:Pr6 

Not in California? JANM virtual visits help students build a more inclusive understanding of American history, society, and democracy while practicing important historical thinking and 21st century skills. This virtual visit option also aligns to the following Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts (CCSS.ELA-Literacy): SL.9-10.1, 9-10.4, 11-12.1, 11-12.4; RH.9-10.2, 9-10.6, 9-10.9 11-12.2, 11-12.6, 11-12.9

Virtual Visit add-on: Grades 4-12 | 20 min | Up to 60 participants (click to expand)

Includes: First Person Q&A ,

Using a virtual video/audio conferencing platform, speak to a survivor of America’s concentration camps and gain insight into the first-hand experience of living through history. Trained docents and facilitators who lived through World War II will engage with your group to provide a rare, first-person glimpse this critical era of American history. Offered depending on speaker availability.

Virtual Visit for College / Adult / Seniors: | 60 min | Up to 60 participants (click for details)

Includes: “Common Ground” Highlights ,

A virtual visit for college, adult, and senior groups with the Japanese American National Museum’s on-going exhibition Common Ground: The Heart of Community . This object-based guided visual presentation will chronologically explore the Japanese American experience from the 1860s through the post-war era. For the best experience, please provide particular areas of interest while booking.

Virtual Visit for College / Adult / Seniors in Japanese: | 70 min | Up to 60 participants (click for details)

Includes: “Common Ground” Highlights in Japanese ,

Available Monday–Friday with limited availability

A virtual visit presented in Japanese for college, adult, and senior groups with the Japanese American National Museum’s on-going exhibition Common Ground: The Heart of Community . This object-based guided visual presentation will chronologically explore the Japanese American experience from the 1860s through the post-war era.

Special Programs

Customized virtual content for students and teacher professional development is available. 

Funding has been provided by California Humanities and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

More Ways to Visit

• School Visits

A JANM School Visit spurs students to learn about the Japanese American story and its significance today.

• Group Visits

Book a group visit, both guided (including in Japanese) and self-guided, for seniors, adults, collegians, or students.

Virtual Visits’ Policies and Information

Hours and Pricing

Virtual visits are available Monday–Friday with one morning availability and one afternoon availability each day. Virtual visits run 45–60 minutes and include non-customized content as well as live, structured facilitation. Prices for virtual visits are applicable for all ages. Please see below for information about financial assistance for Title I schools.

A 20-min Q&A with a first-person camp survivor is available ($50 additional fee). This is not available as a stand-alone program and must be booked in conjunction with a virtual visit. To inquire about pricing for customized content and professional development please email [email protected] . Prices are subject to change.

Full payment for your virtual visit is due one week prior to the date of the visit. Checks and credit card payment are accepted. JANM cannot accept purchase orders or cash for payment at this time.

Virtual Visit Pricing and Refund Information

We understand that it can be difficult to estimate the exact number of participants for a virtual visit. Please review our price tier chart before making a reservation. And please note:

• If your actual group size is smaller than your reservation price tier, we can only issue a refund before your virtual visit starts. (Sorry, no refunds after the virtual visit.)  
• If your actual group size is larger than your reservation price tier, then we will apply the correct higher price tier fees after your visit.

Financial Assistance: Grants for School Groups

JANM’s Bid for Education is a fundraising initiative that helps cover virtual visit fees for Title I schools and groups with demonstrated financial need. These grants are for groups who make advance reservations scheduled through the Education Unit and are available on a first come, first served basis. Groups must have a minimum of 10 participants to qualify. Learn more

We require at least one teacher or supervising adult to be online with students during virtual visits.

Cancellations and Late Arrivals

Cancellations up to 14 days prior to the virtual visit are eligible for a full refund. After that, JANM is unable to issue a refund. Late arrivals into a virtual classroom exceeding 20 minutes beyond a scheduled start time may result in cancellation of a virtual visit.

Prior to Your Visit

Before your virtual visit, please make sure your group has completed any pre-visit activities which will be sent to the group leader (Grades 4–12). All groups should log-in to the videoconferencing waiting room at least 5 minutes prior to the scheduled start time.

Questions or Concerns

If you have any questions or specific concerns regarding your visit to JANM, please contact [email protected] . The museum’s staff will be happy to help you arrange your visit logistics. Our goal is for you and your students to have a rewarding and educational visit.

Virtual Visit FAQ

How do I qualify for financial assistance to virtually visit the Japanese American National Museum (JANM)?

In order to qualify for JANM’s virtual visit waivers, groups must be Title I. Our grants are available to groups who come for an experience scheduled through the Education Unit. Grants are limited and available on a first come, first served basis. Groups must have a minimum of 10 participants to qualify.

What videoconference technology will be used during a virtual visit?

We find it easiest for us to join your virtual classroom as guests using whichever videoconferencing platform your students are most familiar with, but we are also able to set up a JANM Zoom room.

If joining your classroom, we ask that we are made a co-host or presenter as we will need to share our screen. If using a JANM Zoom room, a unique Zoom room link and password will be set up for your visit and sent to the teacher ahead of time. The waiting room feature will be enabled and the teacher will be allowed into the Zoom room first and asked to let students in from the waiting room.

What is a teacher’s role in a virtual visit?

JANM relies upon teachers to closely monitor students during virtual visits. We require one supervising adult to be in the virtual classroom at all times during the virtual visit. If using a Zoom room link from JANM, we will allow the teacher into the Zoom room first and ask that they let their students in from the waiting room.

Do you have docents who are veterans or former inmates that my students can talk to?

Virtual visits for school groups will be led by JANM Education Staff. Adult, college, and senior group tours will be facilitated by JANM Education Staff or trained JANM volunteer docents or facilitators. While some of our volunteers have first-hand experience with America’s concentration camps, we cannot guarantee that your group will be led (on-site or virtual) by a WWII veteran or former camp inmate.

For the unique experience of speaking to a first-person survivor of WWII incarceration, groups who have scheduled or completed virtual visits may book an additional 20-minute Q&A ($50 fee). To access oral histories online, visit DiscoverNikkei.org .

Do you offer virtual visits in multiple languages?

We are now offering Japanese language visits with limited availability for college, adult, and senior groups only. 

For more information please email [email protected] with the name of your school, group, or company; number of participants; and potential dates and times for your tour.

Will this visit be age appropriate for my students?

Virtual museum experiences are designed to meet the needs of 1st–12th grades plus adult and college groups. Please tell us as much information as possible (what your students are studying, what books/materials they have read, etc.) when booking your reservation. We will be happy to make sure that your experience is tailored to the appropriate grade/age level.

Do you have pre-, post-, or digital activities that I can do with my students?

Students who join a virtual visit with a basic understanding of the Japanese American story have a better and deeper experience while they are here. For students 4th grade and above, there is an accompanying pre-visit curriculum that should be completed prior to the visit. Click on the link below for lesson plans and resources that may be of use.

Online Resources

What happens if I am running late to join the virtual visit?

Please contact us at [email protected] as soon as you become aware of a delay. We understand that due unforeseen reasons, your group may arrive late. We may not be able to accommodate your group if you arrive more than 20 minutes late to a virtual visit.

Do you have a cancellation policy for virtual visits?

Virtual visits can be cancelled without penalty up to 14 days prior to the virtual visit. After that, JANM is not able to issue a refund.

Why does JANM use the term “concentration camp” when speaking of the World War II incarceration of Japanese Americans?

The terms used to describe what happened to 120,000 Japanese Americans during World War II—relocation, evacuation, incarceration, internment, or concentration camp—vary among scholars, government officials, and even Japanese Americans themselves. While most people associate “concentration camp” with the Holocaust and many Americans feel more comfortable with milder terms like internment camps, JANM uses the term “concentration camp” because by definition a concentration camp is a place where people are imprisoned not because they are guilty of any crimes, but simply because of who they are. The U.S. government, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt, used the phrase “concentration camp” in speeches and written documents during World War II.

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Open Tomorrow at 11 a.m.

100 North Central Avenue

Los Angeles, California 90012

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