Taimeiken Kite Museum

Tucked away on the fifth floor of the iconic Taimeiken restaurant in Nihonbashi, the Kite Museum (凧の博物館, Tako no Hakubutsukan) is one of Tokyo’s most charmingly eccentric hidden treasures. Founded in 1977 by Shingo Modegi—the late proprietor of the restaurant below and a lifelong kite enthusiast—the museum serves as the headquarters for the Japan Kite Association. It offers a rare, colorful “lull” of traditional folk art floating directly above a bustling kitchen famous for its legendary demi-glace sauce and omurice.

Despite its modest size, the museum houses a staggering archive of over 3,000 kites, with approximately 300 displayed at any given time. The walls and ceilings are densely packed with vibrant designs, showcasing the rich regional diversity of Japanese kite-making. During the Edo period, kite flying evolved from a simple pastime into a sophisticated artistic pursuit and even a competitive sport. Visitors can examine intricate kites made from sturdy washi (hand-crafted paper) and split bamboo, featuring bold portraits of samurai, auspicious folklore characters, and geometric patterns designed to whistle in the wind. The collection also extends to rare specimens from across Asia and Europe, providing a global perspective on this gravity-defying craft.

Visitor Information
Address	5F Taimeiken, 1-12-10 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027 (Google Maps)
Opening Hours	11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Closed: Sundays and National Holidays
Price	¥220 (Adults), ¥110 (Children)
Website	Visit Website

Access
Station	Line(s)	Access Details
Nihonbashi Station	Tokyo Metro Ginza, Tozai Lines	1-minute walk from Exit C5
Nihonbashi Station	Toei Asakusa Line	2-minute walk