Wish to uncover the weird, quirky and downright eccentric side of Tokyo? Why not pay its unusual museums a visit!

Home to more than 36 million people, Tokyo is the largest metropolitan area in the world. The thriving city is known for its deep-rooted tradition and blooming cherry blossoms, evident in many of Tokyo’s top local attractions.

While Tokyo’s local night spots and street style are admired worldwide, the sprawling city’s museums are certainly worth visiting. As a city that embraces all—the new, the old and the quirky—Tokyo’s 50 odd museums cover virtually any genre which you can think about! Beyond conventional ones like the Tokyo National Museum and the National Art Centre Tokyo, there are a handful of unusual museums worth visiting. From the kawaii (cute) to the grotesque, let the team at Cerulean Tower Tokyu, a Pan Pacific Partner Hotel, introduces you to some of the best museums in Tokyo.

Ghibli Museum

If you are a fan of Japanese animation, you need to make a pilgrimage to this museum showcasing the award-winning works of Studio Ghibli. Brainchild of renowned Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki, the Ghibli Museum, is a maze of stairwells, passageways, and rooms that replicate Miyazaki's films' creative sets.

Founder of Studio Ghibli, Miyazaki produced globally loved movies such as Princess Mononoke, Howl’s Moving Castle, and My Neighbour Totoro. His company also received an Academy Award for Spirited Away — the first and only Japanese animation company to do so.

You may spot elements of the different anime films at the museum, which also houses displays of works by Miyazaki and his studio staff. There are reproductions of animated characters, and gain a behind-the-scenes look at the work that goes into creating animated films. Several Miyazaki short anime films, such as Mr Dough and the Egg Princess, are also regularly screened at the museum's 80-seat theatre.

A wondrous way to explore the world of anime films, the Ghibli Museum is highly recommended for both Miyazaki fans and nonfans alike. 

Get directions to Ghibli Museum

Meguro Parasitological Museum

Plan your trip here some time after lunch (or on an empty stomach)! Home to over 300 different parasite specimens, the quirky Meguro Parasitological Museum is not for the faint-hearted. Among the highlights here is an 8.8-metre-long tapeworm that once resided in a 40-year old man! 

Founded in 1953, the two-storey museum is dedicated to educating visitors on the diversity of different parasites in their natural — and human — habitat. The upper floor focuses on the impact parasites have on humans and the various “wars” which humanity has waged against these invisible intruders. Most certainly an eye-opening — and to some, a stomach-churning — experience!

Get directions to the Meguro Parasitological Museum

Samurai Museum

From the unspoken and the unsightly, we now venture into the essence of Japan’s warrior class. 

Gain an insight into the Samurai code and experience the fighting spirit of these honour-bound warriors at the Samurai Museum. The museum connects visitors to the ways of the Samurai and illustrates how the “Samurai spirit” permeates the lives of Japanese today. 

Marvel at the regally adorned historical costumes, deadly Samurai swords, protective headgear, and ancient guns, among other artefacts. If you feel inspired after your walkthrough of the museum, you can dress in your favourite Samurai costume and strike your best warrior pose for a Tokyo souvenir photo unlike any other.

Get directions to the Samurai Museum

Calligraphy Museum

Immerse in the world of Japanese calligraphy with over 16,000 historical artefacts at the Calligraphy Museum. The works on display include Shodo (the way of artistic handwriting), Chinese and Japanese calligraphy. Many of these works are beautifully crafted — some of the rarer pieces bear immense archaeological value. 

Beyond exhibits of fine calligraphy, you can also explore 12 artefacts of “Cultural Properties” and 5 art treasure pieces — these relics include bronze ware, scrolls, epitaphs, stationery and Buddha statues. Linguaphiles keen to learn about the origins of Chinese characters (kanzi) and Japanese syllables will have a field day at this museum.

Get directions to the Calligraphy Museum

After a busy day exploring Tokyo’s weird and wonderful museums, consider relaxing in the arms of tranquillity and warmth of modern Japanese hospitality at the Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel. 

Centrally located in the bustling Shibuya district, the hotel is an oasis of calm and refinement. Book in advance and enjoy up to 25% savings on the best available rates.

With over 400 spacious guest rooms spread over 40 floors, your hotel offers unobstructed views of the sprawling Tokyo megapolis as well as Mount Fuji on clear days. Staying here for your Tokyo Holidays is comfortable and convenient — the perfect base for exploring the city’s quirky museums!