Seikado Bunko Art Museum

Welcome, friend, to an exquisite treasure box nestled in the heart of Tokyo’s prestigious Marunouchi district. We are delighted you are here at the Seikado Bunko Art Museum, now residing in its magnificent home within the Meiji Seimei Kan building. This grand, classical structure, completed in 1934 and designated an Important Cultural Property, provides a perfectly elegant and historic atmosphere for the priceless art held within.

This museum was born from the discerning eye and deep passion of the Iwasaki family, founders of the Mitsubishi group. Over generations, Yanosuke and his son Koyata assembled a remarkable private collection, a testament to their love for the highest forms of Japanese and East Asian art and literature. You are about to step into their world, a curated collection featuring 6,500 art objects and an astonishing 200,000 rare classical texts.

Among the museum’s seven designated National Treasures, the undisputed star is the legendary Yohen Tenmoku teabowl. Crafted in China during the Southern Song dynasty, this small bowl holds within its dark glaze a breathtaking galaxy of iridescent, star-like spots that shimmer with blues, purples, and golds. It is considered the pinnacle of Tenmoku ware, and this example, known as ‘Inaba Tenmoku,’ is one of only three complete bowls of its kind known to exist today. Prepare to be mesmerized by its cosmic beauty.

Beyond this singular treasure, you will discover other masterpieces: powerful ink paintings by Tawaraya Sōtatsu that bring classic literature to life, elegant calligraphy scrolls penned centuries ago, and finely crafted samurai swords imbued with history. This museum offers a rare glimpse into a world of refined taste and profound beauty, carefully preserved for generations. We are so happy to share this elegant legacy with you.