Ryukoku Museum in Kyoto

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Facts & Figures

The Ryukoku Museum in Kyoto nearby the Nishi Honganji Temple is dedicated to Buddhist art and its history. The exhibitions give you insights into the roots of Buddhism from India, its rising popularity in Asia and its influence on Japan. It is a great place to gain some knowledge in studying many of these unique cultural artefacts. A distinct feature of the building are these large ceramic blinds at the outside. More than 4000 ceramic louvers were used to create this look of a rattan blind, which you can find at old buildings in the city. Nikken Sekkei Ltd. was responsible for the design. The size of the exhibition space on 4 levels is approximately 1000 square meter.  Explore Ryokans in Kyoto >
Ryokans are the perfect way to discover old Japanese culture and traditions.

• Ryukoku Museum:
• Opening Hours - 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (last entry 4:30 pm)
• Closed - on Mondays and national holidays
• Admission Fee - 550 yen (Adults), 400 yen (University students), 300 yen (High school students), free for Junior high school students or younger

My tips for local activities

How about exploring the best parts of my favourite city Kyoto with a local guide? The personalized tour by our partner GetYourGuide can take between 2 - 8 hours. For more details check out this page >

History

The Ryukoku Museum opened its doors for the public in 2011. The opening was related to the 370th anniversary celebrations of the foundation of the private Ryukoku University. It is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the country. Ryukoku University needed a place to display its large collection of Buddhist art and the idea was born to create the museum.

Sightseeing spots

Top:

2nd floor - The focus of the exhibition here is on the Buddhism in Asia.

3rd floor - Here you will find everything about the Buddhism in Japan.

Festival & Events in Kyoto (dates can change without notice)

April

Miyako Odori (1st - 31th)
The traditional annual spring dance of the Kyoto district Gion Kobu performed by Geiko and Maiko is a must-see on your Kyoto visit. Don't miss the most popular dances the Miyako Odori "Cherry Blossom Dances" or "Dances of the Old Capital" at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater (located close to Gion Corner).

May

Aoi Matsuri (15th)
The highlight of this festival is a large parade from Imperial Palace through Shimogamo Shrine to the Kamo Shrines. More than 500 people wearing aristocratic costumes from the Heian Period (794 - 1185). The Aoi Matsuri belongs with the Gion Matsuri and Jidai Matsuri to the three most famous festivals in Kyoto.

July

Gion Matsuri (whole month)
The month July is full of different events like the Yoiyama - Kyoto's Magical Night (locals in kimonos look at the giant Gion floats the day before the parade) or the famous Yamaboko Junko (float procession on the 17th of July).

October

Jidai Matsuri ("Festival of Ages") (22nd)
People celebrate with a large parade between Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine the anniversary of the foundation of Kyoto. App. 2000 participants wearing historical costumes from different time periods. Enjoy this great festival which last around 2 hours.