Guide
The Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum opened in 2010 in the Marunouchi district of Tokyo. The building itself is a major attraction; it is a faithful reconstruction of the original 1894 Mitsubishi Ichigokan, designed by the renowned architect Josiah Conder. The museum features a red-brick exterior that exudes historical charm. The museum hosts three major special exhibitions annually, focusing on modern art from the late 19th to the early 20th century. Additionally, smaller exhibitions centered around the museum's permanent collection are held, providing a deep dive into the history of Western art.
The history of this site dates back to the construction of the original "Mitsubishi Ichigokan" in 1892. Designed by British architect Josiah Conder, the building served as a symbol of Japan's modernization, representing Western-style office architecture. The design utilizes the Queen Anne style, which was popular in late 19th-century Britain. Although the original structure was demolished in 1968, it was meticulously reconstructed in 2009 using detailed research from original Meiji-era blueprints, preserved components, and historical documents. The interior reflects an experimental approach to recreating the architectural techniques and aesthetics of the era.
The museum's collection includes works by celebrated artists such as Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Odilon Redon, and Félix Vallotton. In particular, the collection of Toulouse-Lautrec's lithographs and posters is a precious heritage passed down from the art dealer Maurice Joyant. Another highlight is the collection of decorative arts, including ceramics, silverware, and glassware, centered around the theme of "Japonisme in Daily Life." The exhibition rooms are designed to create a seamless experience where the art and the reconstructed historical architecture harmonize perfectly.
Museum operating hours vary depending on the current exhibition period. To protect the artworks, the temperature in the exhibition rooms is maintained at approximately 21°C (70°F) in accordance with international standards. Depending on the season and your personal sensitivity to temperature, we recommend bringing a light jacket or shawl to ensure a comfortable and focused viewing experience. Additionally, visitors can relax at the onsite museum cafe, "Café 1894," during their visit.
Beyond viewing art, visitors can engage in various cultural experiences. The museum shop, "Store 1894," offers a variety of items related to the museum's collections. The facility also includes a Historical Archives room and a multi-purpose space called "Espace 1894," allowing visitors to experience the history of Marunouchi. At the cafe, which is a renovated former bank branch, you can enjoy food and drinks while surrounded by exquisite historical architectural details.
The Marunouchi area, where the museum is located, is a central hub for business and culture, situated right next to Tokyo Station. The cityscape, lined with historic red-brick buildings, offers a view that captures the history of Tokyo's modernization. With numerous office buildings and commercial facilities nearby, the museum is an ideal stop during sightseeing, shopping, or business trips.
As the exhibition rooms are temperature-controlled to approximately 21°C (70°F) for art preservation, we recommend bringing a shawl, cardigan, or light jacket for temperature regulation. Due to the building's structure, footsteps can echo in certain areas; therefore, wearing shoes with soft soles is recommended for a more quiet and respectful visit. Payments are generally processed in full at the ticket counter. English-language support and information regarding exhibitions are available through the museum's facilities.