Guida
Omocha no Machi Bandai Museum, located in Mibu Town, Tochigi Prefecture, is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of toys. The museum is divided into four major thematic sections: Japan, the World, Edison, and Hobbies (such as Gundam). Visitors can explore a vast collection ranging from Japanese toys from the Edo period to global toys inherited from London and Europe, the ingenious inventions of Thomas Edison, and modern pop culture icons like Gundam. It is a destination that offers profound enjoyment for children and adults alike.
The facility provides a deep look into how toys have evolved and influenced human life and culture. Through various sections, you can witness the transition from traditional Japanese toys used since the Edo period to the robot boom of the 1950s and the character-driven toy culture of the modern era. Furthermore, the Edison collection offers a unique perspective on how technological progress has historically intertwined with leisure and play.
The exhibition areas are incredibly diverse. The "World Toy Museum" showcases toys from around the world, with a focus on Europe. The "Japan Toy Museum" features iconic cultural items such as Super Sentai, Precure, Astro Boy, and Sailor Moon. The "Hobby Museum" is a paradise for fans, displaying Gundam collections and sophisticated models like the 1/44 White Base. The "Edison Museum" allows you to feel the history of innovation through items like incandescent light bulbs and phonographs. Additionally, the museum features captivating displays such as the "Model Coal Mine" diorama and vintage arcade games, providing a nostalgic trip through time.
The museum offers a different atmosphere depending on the season and time of day. For instance, on beautiful days, you can enjoy the outdoor space of the Museum Garden. While the exhibits are enjoyable year-round, special events (such as Tochigi Prefectural Citizen's Day) may offer special promotions like discounted admission. Each visit promises new discoveries, especially when exploring the evolution of specific characters or technologies.
The items on display are precious collections with significant historical value. You can visually trace the evolution of technology through the arcade game area, the Little Jammer exhibits, and the Model Coal Mine. The museum also serves as a landmark for toy culture, featuring a life-size Gundam bust and monuments that celebrate the origins of various character-based toys.
Located in Mibu Town, Tochigi, the area carries a rich history as a "Town of Toys." While most visitors arrive by car, access via train is also possible. We recommend planning your visit alongside other local attractions in the Tochigi region to make the most of your trip.
To protect the precious exhibits, please follow all museum rules. Payments can generally be made via cash or credit card, depending on the specific facility area. While English signage and descriptions are available, we recommend reading the background information provided to fully appreciate the historical context of each item. Photography rules vary by area; please follow the local instructions. The facility includes a parking lot with 70 spaces, which can accommodate large buses.