Tokugawa Art Museum

The Tokugawa Art Museum (徳川美術館, Tokugawa Bijutsukan) in Nagoya offers an in-depth exploration of the Owari Tokugawa family, one of the three influential branches of the Tokugawa clan during Japan’s Edo Period (1603-1868). Situated within the grounds of their former residence, the museum houses an extraordinary collection of samurai armor, swords, tea utensils, noh masks, costumes, and historical scrolls and maps. This captivating collection provides a rare opportunity to delve into the opulence and cultural richness of feudal Japan.

Adjacent to the museum is Tokugawa-en, a peaceful Japanese garden that beautifully complements the museum’s historical offerings. Featuring a large pond and scenic walking trails, the garden was once part of the Tokugawa family’s estate. It was restored after World War II and reopened to the public in 2004. The garden is especially stunning in the spring and autumn, when the Peony and Iris gardens bloom, providing a serene escape into nature while immersing visitors in Japan’s rich historical heritage.