An interactive museum to enjoy across generations, wrapped in the warmth of wood
An experiential, interactive toy museum that captivates everyone from babies to adults
【Tokyo Toy Museum】
Located in Yotsuya, Shinjuku, Tokyo, the Tokyo Toy Museum is a special place where people of all ages—from children to adults—can experience new discoveries and moving moments through "play." In this unique space, repurposed from the gymnasium of a former elementary school, a variety of toys collected from around the world are displayed, offering visitors the joy of creativity and connection.
The museum emphasizes not just looking, but hands-on engagement that uses all five senses. Focusing especially on warm wooden toys and analog games that foster communication, it helps us rediscover the value of "genuine play" often forgotten in the digital age. Leave the bustle of the city behind and immerse yourself in the world of "play" to your heart's content—an experience like no other awaits here.
Top 3 Recommended Highlights
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1. Meet the 'Play Guides': Toy Curators
At the Tokyo Toy Museum, “toy curators” from their teens to their 80s serve as a bridge connecting visitors with toys—and with one another. As "Play Guides", they share the fun of toys and how to play through handmade toys, traditional games, and read-aloud storytelling for visitors of all ages, from babies to seniors.
Through exchanges with peers who share the same skills and interests and by assisting at events, they also take part in activities that broaden the world of play. Meeting these volunteers in their signature red aprons will enrich your play experience.
©︎ 認定ＮＰＯ法人 芸術と遊び創造協会
2. Baby Wood-Play Area (Ages 0～2 Only)
This special space, filled with the warmth of wood, is exclusively for children ages 0～2 and their guardians, with safety thoughtfully prioritized. It uses solid Japanese cedar (sugi) from 10 regions across Japan, providing warmth that makes floor heating unnecessary so little ones can safely play while experiencing the beauty and qualities of wood. Entry is organized in one-hour time slots to ensure a relaxed visit.
©︎ 認定ＮＰＯ法人 芸術と遊び創造協会
3. Creativity-building 'Handmade Crafts' Experience
At the Toy Workshop, under the concept "The joy of toys is creating them yourself!", we introduce handmade toys using familiar materials such as paper cups and milk cartons. Choose from a daily-changing selection drawn from hundreds of projects to create a one-of-a-kind toy. In the dedicated electric scroll-saw room, "Itonokoya", for 4th graders and up (adults welcome), you can also make authentic wooden toys using domestically sourced wood from across Japan and fully savor the joy of making.
©︎ 認定ＮＰＯ法人 芸術と遊び創造協会
Other recommended information
d38 Museum Shop APTY:Features popular wooden toys and artists' works from the museum, and it is accessible without an admission fee. Perfect for souvenirs and gifts.
d38 Intergenerational exchange:From babies to adults, enjoy cross-generational communication through a wide range of play, including pretend play, board games, and traditional local toys.
d38 Group and school visits:Group discounts for 12 or more. Also recommended for field trips and off-campus learning.
d38 Accessibility:Equipped with elevators, accessible restrooms, and stroller parking. If you need assistance, feel free to ask a Toy Curator.
d38 Nearby spots:Shinjuku Gyoen (8 min on foot) and the Fire Museum (5 min on foot), making it a location families can enjoy for a whole day.
Reservations are not strictly required, but we recommend purchasing online during busy times. For details, please check the official website for the latest information.
©︎ 認定ＮＰＯ法人 芸術と遊び創造協会
©︎ 認定ＮＰＯ法人 芸術と遊び創造協会
©︎ 認定ＮＰＯ法人 芸術と遊び創造協会
©︎ 認定ＮＰＯ法人 芸術と遊び創造協会
References
- Tokyo Toy Museum official website: https://art-play.or.jp/ttm/
MAP & ACCESS
・Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, "Yotsuya-sanchome Station": about a 5-minute walk from Exit 2
・Toei Shinjuku Line, "Akebonobashi Station": about an 8-minute walk from Exit A1
・JR "Shinjuku Station": about a 25-minute walk from the East Exit
・Toei Shinjuku Line, "Akebonobashi Station": about an 8-minute walk from Exit A1
・JR "Shinjuku Station": about a 25-minute walk from the East Exit