Kyoto National Museum (Kokuritsu Hakubutsukan)

Kyoto National Museum (Kokuritsu Hakubutsukan) Review

At this writing, the museum is undergoing an extensive renovation; the New Collections Hall is scheduled to open in fall 2013. The building itself is an enthralling piece of the Kyoto landscape, but its lackluster permanent collection doesn't rate as must-see. The Meiji-era brick structure holds an extensive collection of sculptures, textiles, ceramics, and metalwork. It is worth checking on the temporary exhibitions, which can bring some real treasures. The museum is on the corner of Shichijo-dori and Higashi-oji-dori, across from Sanjusangen-do and Chishaku-in. From Kyoto Station take Bus 206 or 208 to the Sanjusangen-do-mae stop.