Museum Overview
The Currency Museum of the Institute for Monetary and Economic Studies of the Bank of Japan opened in November 1985. The museum was established to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Bank of Japan's founding and to showcase money's history and cultural value to the general public. By following the development of Japanese money and displaying a wide variety of coins from ancient times to the present, the museum plays an important role in helping visitors understand Japan's economic history.
The museum's primary purpose is to educate the public about Japanese coins' history and cultural value. The exhibits include many valuable materials, such as actual Wadokaichin large and small Oban coins and paintings related to coins. This allows visitors to learn about the evolution of Japan's monetary system and understand how money has influenced society.
In 2015, the museum reopened with its exhibits and facilities renewal. The renewal focused on reflecting the research results and new academic theories over the 30 years since the museum's opening and included barrier-free accessibility and hands-on exhibits for children. This has created an environment where more people can enjoy learning about the history of coins.
Exhibit Contents
The Wadokaichin, issued in 708, is the oldest coin in Japan, and the actual coin is on display at the Currency Museum. This coin was made in imitation of the Chinese Kaiyuan-tho and played an important role in the economic activities of the time. In the exhibit, visitors can learn about the historical background of the Wadokaichin coins and their relationship to the prices of the time, giving visitors a deeper understanding of the origins of Japanese coinage.
In the Edo period, Oban and Koban coins were especially valued by the wealthy and the samurai class and were mainly used as rewards and gifts. At the Currency Museum, visitors can see the actual gold coins up close and personal and experience their weight and texture. Through the exhibits, visitors can also learn about the economic conditions of the time and how money was circulated, helping them to understand Japan's monetary system from a historical perspective.
The Currency Museum has a wide range of hands-on exhibits, and the section where visitors can experience the weight of a Senryo Bako is particularly popular. This Senryobako, which weighed approximately 20 kg, was used to store 1,000 koban during the Edo period. There is also an exhibit where visitors can learn about modern anti-counterfeiting technology, allowing visitors to gain a better understanding of anti-counterfeiting technology for bills through hands-on experience.
Hours of Operation and Admission Fees
The Currency Museum of the Institute for Monetary and Economic Studies of the Bank of Japan is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with the last admission by 4:00 p.m. Visitors must enter the museum during these hours. The museum is closed on Mondays but will be open if a national holiday falls on a Monday. It is closed during the year-end and New Year's holidays, i.e., December 29 through January 4. It is important to consider these times when planning your visit.
Admission to the museum is free and open to all. This is because the museum aims to promote understanding of monetary history and culture among the general public. However, the museum may be closed temporarily to replace exhibits or for special events, so it is recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information in advance.
Upon entering the museum, visitors are subject to a security check. Specifically, your belongings will be inspected using X-ray machines and metal detectors. This procedure is necessary for safety reasons, and visitors are encouraged to keep their belongings to a minimum to facilitate a smooth entry. In particular, visitors should avoid bringing large luggage and hazardous materials.
Access Information
The Currency Museum of the Institute for Monetary and Economic Studies of the Bank of Japan is located in Nihonbashi Hongokucho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, within a branch of the Bank of Japan. The museum opened in 1985 and has been collecting, preserving, and exhibiting coins and related materials from all ages and countries since then. It is located at 103-0021 and is very conveniently accessible.
Access to the museum is very convenient. The nearest station is Mitsukoshimae Station on the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line, just a one-minute walk from Exit B1 and a two-minute walk from Mitsukoshimae Station on the Ginza Line. It is also only an 8-minute walk from JR Tokyo Station, making it easy to visit the museum for sightseeing or business.
Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation, as the Currency Museum does not have a parking lot. Many public transportation systems in the vicinity provide easy access. Visitors are advised to check their transportation options before their visit.
The Currency Museum is barrier-free and is equipped with an elevator. In addition, wheelchairs are available for rent, and those who need them can request them at the reception desk. This creates a comfortable environment for all visitors to enjoy the museum.
Tips for Foreign Visitors
To ensure visitors can comfortably enjoy the exhibits, the Currency Museum of the Institute for Monetary and Economic Studies of the Bank of Japan provides audio guides in Japanese and English. This allows foreign visitors to better understand Japanese monetary history and culture. In addition, free Wi-Fi is available in the exhibition rooms, allowing visitors to use smartphones and tablets to search for information in real-time and utilize voice guidance.
Nearby Sightseeing Spots
Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi Main Store is a historic department store located in the heart of Tokyo and is the perfect place to enjoy shopping. Founded in 1868, the store has been loved by many people ever since. The store offers a wide range of products, from luxury brands to daily necessities, and Japanese-style goods and traditional crafts are especially popular among tourists. In addition, the grocery floor offers fresh Japanese ingredients and sweets, providing an attractive experience for visitors.
The Mitsui Memorial Museum of Art is a cultural spot mainly exhibiting Japanese art. Particularly appealing is the museum's diverse collection, which includes paintings and ceramics from the Edo period and more modern works of art. The museum is in a quiet environment, allowing visitors to appreciate the works of art at their leisure and feel the depth of Japanese art. The museum also regularly holds special exhibitions, making it a place where there is always something new to discover.
Nihonbashi Bridge is an important symbol of Tokyo's history and an excellent spot for tourists to take pictures. Known as a central transportation hub since the Edo period (1603-1867), it still sees many people coming and going. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery from the bridge that blends the surrounding modern buildings with the historical landscape, especially at dusk, creating a fantastic atmosphere. If you visit, bring your camera and capture some memorable shots.
