Kyoto International Manga Museum

Museum

Prefecture

Kyoto

Type

Museum

N/A

1 review

¥900

Entry Fee

English Staff Train Access Cafe

About This Destination

Housed in a former elementary school, this museum holds approximately 300,000 manga items. Visitors can freely read from 50,000 volumes lining the hallways.

The Kyoto International Manga Museum opened in 2006 in the former Tatsuike Elementary School, a handsome 1929 building in central Kyoto. A joint project between Kyoto City and Kyoto Seika University, it holds approximately 300,000 manga-related items, making it one of the world's largest manga archives. The museum's most distinctive feature is the Wall of Manga, where approximately 50,000 volumes line the corridors and former classrooms, all freely available for visitors to pick up and read anywhere in the building or on the schoolyard lawn. The collection spans from rare Meiji-era works to the latest popular series, with dedicated sections for international manga in multiple languages. Rotating exhibitions explore manga as an art form, its cultural impact, and its evolution. The museum also offers live demonstrations by manga artists and portrait sessions where visitors can have their likeness drawn in manga style.

Location

Prefecture: Kyoto

Address: Kyoto, Japan

Nearest Station: Karasuma Oike Station

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Accepted

Food Options: A small cafe on the ground floor serves light meals and drinks. The Karasuma Oike area surrounding the museum has numerous restaurants, cafes, and bakeries within walking distance.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I plan to spend at the Manga Museum?

Plan at least 2-3 hours to browse the Wall of Manga and exhibitions. Many visitors spend half a day reading on the lawn. Re-entry is allowed on the same day, so you can break for lunch nearby.

Can I read manga in English or other languages?

Yes, there is a dedicated international manga section with works in English, French, Chinese, Korean, and other languages. Staff can help you locate specific languages or genres.

What special experiences are available?

Professional manga artists give live drawing demonstrations on weekends. You can also get your portrait drawn in manga style (extra fee, check schedules). Special exhibitions rotate throughout the year.

Is it suitable for children?

Absolutely. The collection includes manga for all ages, and the schoolyard lawn is perfect for kids to read outdoors. The building's former elementary school atmosphere adds to the experience.