[2025 Tokyo Attraction] Travel Guide for Suginami Animation Museum (Updated Jun)

#freemuseumdays Anime lovers, this is a must-visit! The Suginami Animation Museum is run by Tokyo Polytechnic University and offers a free deep dive into Japan’s world of animation. Inside, you can explore the history of Japanese anime and learn about its exciting future. The museum features an Anime Theater, an Anime Library, special exhibition spaces, and a workshop area—all with free admission, including the special exhibits. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just curious about anime culture, this museum offers a fun, interactive experience that won’t cost a yen. Why I recommend this museum: ・Completely free entry, including special exhibitions ・Great mix of history, hands-on exhibits, and anime screenings ・Perfect for both anime fans and first-time visitors 📍Suginami, Tokyo (about 15 min by bus from Ogikubo Station) #SuginamiAnimationMuseum #TokyoFreeMuseum #AnimeCulture #JapanAnime #BudgetTravelTokyo #HiddenTokyo #Freemuseumdays #TripcomCommunity

Day 1: Upon arriving in Tokyo, our itinerary was immediately filled with the colors of childhood heroes—we headed straight to Ultraman Shopping Street, a paradise designed for Ultraman fans. Located in Nakano, Tokyo, this shopping street is a blend of nostalgia and modernity. The giant Ultraman statue at the entrance seemed to be waving at us, and I couldn't wait to step into this world dedicated to superheroes. Every shop on the street was full of surprises, from classic Ultraman models to limited-edition merchandise, it was a feast for the eyes. As a long-time Ultraman fan, I couldn't miss the special hero-themed restaurant, where I enjoyed Ultraman-shaped bento and desserts, which were both fun and delicious. After lunch, we participated in an interactive activity inside the store, taking unforgettable photos with Ultraman using AR technology. In the evening, we headed to the nearby Nakano Broadway shopping center, which had even more anime and game collectibles, leaving us dazzled. At night, we strolled through the shopping street, and the Ultraman statue looked even more majestic under the lights, as if guarding the entire neighborhood. Day 2: On the second day, our itinerary revolved around the attractions near Ultraman Shopping Street. In the morning, we visited the Suginami Animation Museum to gain an in-depth understanding of the history and production process of Japanese animation. The museum also had a special Ultraman section, showcasing scene models and precious manuscripts from classic episodes, making us feel like we were back in the days of watching TV as kids. Then, we returned to Ultraman Shopping Street to enjoy its unique atmosphere once again. I picked out some exquisite Ultraman merchandise as souvenirs of this trip.

Suginami Animation Museum, located in Suginami Ward, Tokyo, is Japan's first public museum dedicated to animation culture. As a paradise for animation enthusiasts, it offers an in-depth look at the history, production techniques, and future trends of Japanese animation, showcasing the rich heritage of Japanese animation culture. Museum Highlights 1. Animation History and Culture Exhibitions • Animation History Wall: From early 20th-century black-and-white animations to contemporary diverse styles, this wall showcases the century-long development of Japanese animation. • Classic Works Exhibition: Featuring segments and related manuscripts from iconic animations like Astro Boy and Neon Genesis Evangelion. • Suginami and Animation: Suginami Ward is a significant hub for Japan's animation industry, home to renowned animation studios such as Sunrise and Madhouse. 2. Animation Production Experience Zone • Animation Studio: Visitors can experience the animation production process firsthand, including storyboard creation, character design, and frame-by-frame animation. • Voice Acting Experience: Try dubbing classic animation scenes and feel the charm of voice acting. • Digital Animation Experience: Use the latest CG technology to create your own short animations. 3. Dynamic Exhibitions and Screenings • Themed Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts themed exhibitions related to specific animation works or directors, such as special exhibitions on Hayao Miyazaki or the Gundam series. • Animation Screening Room: A small theater within the museum continuously screens classic animation shorts or documentaries, providing an immersive viewing experience. 4. Space for Animation Enthusiasts • Library and Archive: The museum houses a vast collection of books, magazines, and research materials on animation, making it a valuable resource for researchers and enthusiasts. • Events and Lectures: Regularly held lectures and workshops related to animation production, sometimes featuring renowned animators or voice actors from the industry. Practical Information 1. Address and Transportation • Address: 3-29-5 Kamiigusa, Suginami Ward, Tokyo, within the Tokyo Polytechnic University Suginami Campus • Transportation: • Take the JR Chuo Line to Ogikubo Station, transfer to a bus to the 'Suginami Animation Museum' stop, then walk about 5 minutes. • From Shinjuku Station, take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Ogikubo Station, then transfer to the Seibu Shinjuku Line. 2. Opening Hours • Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last admission at 5:30 PM). • Closed: Every Monday (if a holiday falls on Monday, the museum will be closed the following day) and during the New Year holidays. 3. Admission • Free Admission: The museum is open to the public for free, though some special events may require a fee. Visiting Tips 1. Suitable for All Ages: Whether you're a child, student, or seasoned animation fan, there's something here for everyone. 2. Allocate Time: Plan to spend 2-3 hours to fully experience the exhibitions and interactive activities. 3. Check Event Schedules: The museum frequently updates its special exhibitions and lecture schedules, so check in advance to enhance your visit. 4. Photo Spots: The animation-themed wall at the entrance and classic character sculptures are great for photos, but some areas inside the museum may prohibit photography, so please follow the rules. Nearby Recommendations • Igusa Hachiman Shrine: Just a 10-minute walk from the museum, this tranquil shrine is a perfect place to relax after exploring animation culture. • Ogikubo Ramen Street: Known for its ramen, the Ogikubo area in Suginami Ward offers delicious Japanese ramen, allowing you to enjoy authentic Tokyo culinary culture. Conclusion Suginami Animation Museum is not only a window into Japanese animation culture but also a place that inspires creativity. From rich historical exhibitions to hands-on production experiences, it is a must-visit for animation fans, family tourists, and culture enthusiasts. If you love Japanese animation, this museum will bring you closer to the charm and vitality of animation art!