Guide
The Tokugawa Museum is a specialized institution housing a vast array of precious historical materials related to the history of the Mito Tokugawa family. The museum was established following the donation of much-valued daimyo tools and ancient documents by Tokugawa Kuninori, the 13th head of the Mito Tokugawa family. The collection features approximately 30,000 precious items, including personal belongings of Tokugawa Ieyasu, which have been carefully passed down through successive lords and their families. Additionally, the site houses the collection of the Shokokan Library, providing a wealth of profound historical documents.
The museum's founding mission is to preserve and pass down the history of the Mito Tokugawa family to future generations. The donated daimyo tools and ancient documents serve as vital records of the culture, lifestyle, and the significant role played by the Mito Tokugawa clan during their era. The items on display, ranging from relics of Tokugawa Ieyasu to possessions of successive lords, provide tangible evidence of the Tokugawa family's immense presence in Japanese history.
The core of the exhibition is the exquisite collection centered around the personal belongings of Tokugawa Ieyasu. This includes highly significant items known as "Sunpu Owake-mono." Visitors can also explore approximately 30,000 precious items used by successive lords and their families, as well as drafts of the "Dai Nihonshi" (Great History of Japan) and roughly 30,000 ancient documents collected from across the country held in the Shokokan Library. These exhibits allow you to experience the culture of the Edo period and the history of the Mito Tokugawa family through authentic, physical artifacts.
The museum is open from 10:00 to 17:00, allowing for the appreciation of historical materials regardless of the season. While the exhibition content does not change with the seasons, please note that the final admission is at 16:00. It is highly recommended to arrive with plenty of time to enjoy the exhibits. The indoor environment is strictly controlled to protect the delicate and precious historical materials.
The museum focuses on the deep appreciation of authentic historical materials. To enhance your visit, a digital database is available in both English and Japanese, allowing you to research the details of the exhibited items online. You can immerse yourself in a quiet, contemplative atmosphere while exploring the various artifacts and documents related to the Tokugawa lineage.
The museum grounds include the Nishiyama Goten palace site and the Mito Tokugawa family graves. These sites are historically linked to the Tokugawa family and are positioned as part of the broader historical landscape surrounding the museum. Visitors can experience the historical atmosphere of the surrounding area alongside the museum exhibits.
To protect the precious historical documents and artifacts, please observe proper museum etiquette.