2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Tokyo
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Facts & Figures
Tokyo has two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the tropical paradise of the Ogasawara Islands and the National Museum of Western Art in Ueno Park. The islands are not easily accessible and require a 25.5 hour ferry ride to cover the 1000 km distance. Much easier to reach is the modernist masterpiece by Le Corbusier, who designed the museum. If you’re into UNESCO World Heritage Sites, I also recommend visiting Nikko near Tokyo, with its many spectacular landmarks.
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- Overview of the 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Tokyo (Prefecture):
- 1. Ogasawara Islands
- 2. National Museum of Western Art
1. Ogasawara Islands (Bonin Islands)
The Ogasawara Islands, also known as the Bonin Islands, are a remote tropical paradise that belongs to Tokyo, located about 1000 km south of the city in the Pacific Ocean. Often called the Galapagos of the East, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to rare wildlife, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking night skies. Reachable only by a weekly ferry, the islands offer an unforgettable escape into untouched nature.
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2. National Museum of Western Art
Located in Tokyo’s Ueno Park, the National Museum of Western Art is Japan’s only site included in UNESCO’s "Architectural Work of Le Corbusier" listing. Designed by the Swiss-French modernist Le Corbusier (1887–1965), the museum showcases his distinctive use of concrete and geometric form, a style that will appeal to fans of brutalism or Tadao Ando. Even if the building’s design isn’t your favorite, the collection of European art is reason enough to visit.
Address: 7-7 Ueno-koen, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 110-0007
