Fujiko · F · Fujio Museum

In a quiet neighborhood of Kawasaki, right next to energetic Tokyo, lies an amazing place—the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum. This modern art space is dedicated to the life and work of the legendary manga artist duo who gave the world one of Japan's most recognizable characters—the blue robotic cat Doraemon. The museum is often simply called the "Doraemon Museum" and is rightfully considered a must-visit for all fans of anime and Japanese culture.

The museum's collection is impressive in its scale, housing approximately 50,000 exhibits. Visitors can see original illustrations, manuscripts, and even a recreation of the studio where the famous stories were born. Exhibits include not only drafts and sketches but also the authors' personal tools, such as their favorite fountain pens. The museum's atmosphere is steeped in creativity and nostalgia, allowing guests to literally step inside the pages of their favorite comics.

The venue's popularity is boosted by its interactivity and attention to detail. In addition to the exhibition halls, there is a park with life-sized character figures, including the famous "Anywhere Door," as well as a manga library and a themed café. It is not just a classic gallery, but an entire universe that awakens childhood memories and introduces the history of a manga that has been a global phenomenon since its first publication in 1969.

When planning a visit to the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum, be sure to check its official resources for the most up-to-date schedule and any changes in admission rules. As this destination is extremely popular with both locals and visitors to Tokyo, checking information in advance will help ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.

Please note that ticket purchasing has specific requirements and is tied to designated time slots, so we recommend reviewing the booking details beforehand. Current information regarding the themed café and special exhibitions is also available on the museum's website.

At the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum, every visitor will find something to enjoy. Begin your journey in the original drawings gallery, where handwritten sketches for "Doraemon" are displayed. Here, you can examine the minute details of the artists' work and see the legendary creators' studio. Be sure to use the audio guide (available in English)—it reveals many fascinating nuances of character creation that might otherwise go unnoticed.

The museum's interactive zones are a particular delight for guests: you can take photos next to iconic props like the "Anywhere Door" or play in a playground area that recreates scenes from the series. After exploring the exhibits, stop by the manga library to flip through the original comics, or watch an exclusive short film in the local theater that isn't shown anywhere else.

The perfect way to end your visit is at the themed café, which serves food and drinks decorated with character images. In the souvenir shop, you can purchase unique items sold only here. Remember that tickets must be purchased in advance via Lawson store terminals, as entry is strictly timed; visiting on a weekday will allow you to get the best shots without the crowds.

The Fujiko F. Fujio Museum is located in Kawasaki, and reaching it from central Tokyo or Yokohama is quite easy. The most convenient way is by train. Shukugawara Station (JR Nambu Line) and Mukogaoka-Yuen Station (Odakyu Odawara Line) are both within walking distance. If you are coming from Shibuya Station, the trip on the Odakyu Line takes about 20 minutes.

Of particular interest is Noborito Station, where the JR Nambu and Odakyu lines intersect. A special themed shuttle bus, decorated with images of Doraemon and other manga characters, runs from here to the museum. It is easy to spot in traffic, and the ride itself is a great way to start your tour.

For those using GPS, the museum's address is: 2-chōme-8-1 Nagao, Tama Ward, Kawasaki. Please note that parking at the building is very limited, so taking public transport in Japan is always considered a more reliable and faster option.

The history of this site is inextricably linked to the creative partnership of Hiroshi Fujimoto and Motoo Abiko, who worked under the collective pseudonym Fujiko F. Fujio. In 1969, they introduced the world to Doraemon—a kind robotic cat from the future who has since become a true cultural icon of Japan. Since then, the popularity of their work has spread far beyond the country’s borders, with over 100 million copies of the manga sold worldwide by 2015.

Hiroshi Fujimoto lived most of his life in Kawasaki, which is why this city was chosen to house the museum that carefully preserves his legacy. The museum opened its doors to visitors on September 3, 2011—a date chosen intentionally, as it is Doraemon's own birthday. By its tenth anniversary, the cultural center's collection had grown to approximately 50,000 items.

The museum's exhibits allow visitors to trace the authors' entire journey: from early pencil sketches to the global phenomenon that spans films, games, and television. Here, you can see original manuscripts and the personal tools of the masters who, for decades, inspired millions of children and adults to believe in miracles and the power of friendship.

To explore all the halls of the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum without rushing, set aside 2 to 3 hours for your visit. This is plenty of time to carefully examine the original sketches, listen to the audio guide that details the authors' creative journey, and browse the manga library.

If you plan to visit the themed café, which serves dishes featuring character designs, or linger in the gift shop to pick out exclusive merchandise, your visit may take longer. Also, don't forget to leave some time for a stroll through the museum's park area, where you'll find famous character figures perfect for commemorative photos.

The Fujiko F. Fujio Museum is open to visitors from Wednesday to Monday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Please note that Tuesday is the traditional closing day. It is also important to keep in mind that the complex is closed during the New Year holiday period (from December 30 to January 3).

Since museum entry is based on specific time slots, it is crucial to arrive at the time designated on your ticket. If you have any doubts regarding the schedule during public holidays, we recommend checking the information on the official website before traveling to Kawasaki.

A visit to the Fujiko F. Fujio Museum is just one of many things the Tama Ward of Kawasaki has to offer. The surrounding area is rich with picturesque parks and historic sites that can make your day even more rewarding. Just a short walk away is Myoraku-ji Temple, where you can enjoy peace and traditional Japanese architecture.

For nature lovers, a perfect way to continue your outing is a visit to the Ikuta Ryokuchi Rose Garden or Ikuta Ryokuchi Park, famous for its landscape design and observation decks. This variety of locations allows you to combine an immersion into modern pop culture with relaxation in the fresh air.