National Museum of Ethnology

Flow of the course

About this spot

One of the world's largest museums of ethnology located within Expo Memorial Park, affectionately nicknamed 'Minpaku.' Following the exhibitions from Oceania to the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia, you experience the feeling of taking a world tour. The vivid folk costumes, masks, musical instruments from around the globe, and household tools are overwhelming in impact and volume—conversations between parents and children naturally spark with 'What's this used for?' There are also sections to enjoy world music and video, perfect for elementary school students' research projects. The museum has a restaurant serving cuisines from around the world, so lunch between exhibits is no problem. High school students and younger enjoy free admission—a delightful museum for families.

Tips

About 10-15 minutes' walk from the Tower of the Sun within the Natural & Cultural Park. Admission is 580 yen for adults, with high school students and younger free—a family-friendly price. Closed Wednesdays (or the following day if Wednesday is a holiday), so check the day. The museum is flat and easy to navigate with a stroller; the restaurant offers world cuisines for lunch. The exhibitions are extensive, so selecting 2-3 regions to visit ensures children enjoy the highlights before getting tired.

Best time to visit

Approximately 2 hours. Morning to midday is best—the museum restaurant is easier to enter before the lunch rush.

Access & map

〒565-0826 大阪府吹田市千里万博公園１０−１