Kyoto International Manga Museum
Kyoto, Japan · Museum
About Kyoto International Manga Museum
The Kyoto International Manga Museum is a celebrated cultural institution housed in a converted 1929 elementary school. It features an astounding collection of roughly 300,000 manga volumes spanning the history of Japanese graphic novels and pop culture. Visitors can browse towering walls of manga, view rotating exhibits, and read casually on the outdoor lawn.
Don't miss
- Browse the Wall of Manga, a massive 200-meter-long shelving display holding over 50,000 accessible volumes.
- Marvel at the giant wooden Phoenix sculpture inspired by the work of legendary artist Osamu Tezuka.
- Check out the Manga Expo section showcasing translated titles from around the globe in multiple languages.
- Experience live portrait sessions where skilled artists draw your likeness in a signature anime style.
Plan your visit
Weekday mornings or early afternoons are best to avoid crowds and easily secure a spot on the reading lawn. Sunny days are particularly delightful if you want to lounge outside on the artificial turf with a book.
Admission requires a paid ticket, which can usually be purchased on arrival at the entrance or online in advance. Booking months ahead is rarely necessary unless a rare special exhibition is taking place.
The museum is located just a two-minute walk from Karasuma Oike Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway. It is also an easy 15-minute walk from the central Kawaramachi downtown area.
Tips for visiting
- Take off your shoes where requested and keep noise to a minimum in designated quiet zones.
- Relax on the outdoor artificial turf courtyard to read your chosen books on sunny days.
- Be mindful that photography is prohibited in most interior reading halls and special exhibition rooms.
- Look for the foreign-language shelves on the ground floor if you cannot read Japanese.
- Visit the museum shop for unique manga-themed stationery, books, and exclusive souvenirs.
Kyoto International Manga Museum FAQ
Are there manga available in languages other than Japanese?
Yes, the museum features a dedicated Manga Expo section with titles translated into English, French, Spanish, and other languages. While most of the collection is in Japanese, international visitors will still find hundreds of readable titles.
Can I borrow manga to take outside the museum?
No, books cannot be checked out or removed from the museum property. However, visitors are free to take books onto the museum's courtyard lawn to read during their visit.
Is the museum suitable for young children?
Yes, the museum includes a dedicated children's library with picture books and tactile exhibits. Families will also appreciate the open lawn space where kids can sit and read comfortably.
Is photography allowed inside the museum?
Photography is strictly prohibited in most of the reading rooms and special exhibition spaces to protect copyright and visitor privacy. Specific designated photo spots, such as the large Phoenix statue, are clearly signposted.
More things to do in Kyoto
Fushimi Inari Taisha Landmark
Walk beneath thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates winding up sacred Mount Inari.
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) Landmark
Marvel at the stunning Zen temple gilded in pure gold leaf reflecting across a calm pond.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Nature
Stroll along towering green bamboo stalks in western Kyoto, best experienced at daybreak.
Kiyomizu-dera Landmark
Admire sweeping views across Kyoto from this historic wooden temple terrace built without nails.
Gion Historic District Neighborhood
Wander past preserved wooden teahouses and lanterns where you might spot geiko and maiko.
Nishiki Market Food
Sample local street food delicacies, savory skewers, and regional pickles in this lively five-block arcade.
Philosopher's Path Nature
Walk along a scenic stone path beside a cherry-tree-lined canal connecting classic temples.
AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: qgadrian, devinedsel on Pixabay.