Guide
The Seikado Museum of Books and Oriental Antiquities (affectionately known as Seikado @ Marunouchi) is located within the Meiji Seimei Kan building in Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo. Deeply connected to the history of the Mitsubishi Group, the museum collects, preserves, and displays precious Japanese and Oriental classical books and artworks. In October 2022, the exhibition galleries were relocated and reopened at the current Meiji Seimei Kan in Marunouchi. The exhibition space, redesigned by Takenaka Corporation, is a sophisticated environment that preserves the historical structure of the building. It is a place where visitors can feel profound cultural depth through a collection that reflects traditional Japanese aesthetics.
The origins of the museum date back to 1892, when Yanagita Yasunosuke founded the "Seikado" library within his residence in Kanda Surugadai. The name is derived from the phrase "Hen-to Seika" found in the Chinese classic 'Shijing' (Classic of Poetry). Drawing from his expertise in Sinology, Yasunosuke dedicated himself to collecting classical books. In 1907, the collection grew to include many precious Song and Yuan dynasty editions, including works from the collection of the Qing dynasty scholar Lu Xinyuan. Today, the museum serves as a hub in Marunouchi, Tokyo, passing the torch of Japanese cultural heritage to future generations.
The museum exhibits precious ceramics, lacquerware, and tea ceremony utensils from both Japan and abroad. For example, the exhibition "Savoring Beauty: Kaiseki Wares and Tea Ceremony," held from April to June 2026, will introduce Kaiseki cuisine vessels and tea tools associated with figures such as Sen no Rikyu and Toyotomi Hideyoshi. These items are vital for visually understanding the spirit of Japanese food culture and the Way of Tea. Additionally, the museum hosts various artworks, including National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, allowing visitors to learn about the diversity of Japanese beauty through different historical themes.
Visiting during the bright daylight hours allows you to better appreciate the textures and colors of the ceramics and lacquerware on display. Since the exhibition themes change seasonally, you can encounter different collections depending on when you visit. Particularly during spring and early summer, exhibitions are often curated with a seasonal touch to match the time of year. We recommend checking the official website for the latest schedule to ensure an efficient visit during exhibition changes.
In addition to viewing the exhibits, the museum occasionally hosts events such as slide talks by curators. These are excellent opportunities to deepen your understanding of the historical background of the artworks. Audio guides are also available for rent (fee required), providing detailed explanations narrated by professionals. Spending time with the works in this quiet, serene environment offers a profound cultural experience away from daily life.
The Marunouchi area, where the museum is located, is extremely convenient and situated right next to Tokyo Station. The area is home to several cultural facilities linked to the "Mitsubishi Museum" network, such as the Toyo Bunko Museum and the Mitsubishi 一号館 (Ichigokan) Museum. After your visit, you can enjoy relaxing at nearby cafes or exploring the vibrant commercial facilities around Tokyo Station.
To protect the exhibits and maintain a quiet environment, please follow certain rules. There is no strict dress code, but comfortable clothing suitable for a calm viewing experience is recommended. Regarding photography, you may take still photos with a smartphone or tablet, except for specific works like the National Treasure "Yohen Tenmoku." However, video recording and the use of DSLR/professional cameras are prohibited. Please check for any required advance reservations or ticket purchases before your visit.