Japan’s first private art museum was established in Taisho 6 (1917) by Kihachiro OKURA, founder of the Okura zaibatsu. The unique building, designed by architect Chuta ITO, who also worked on Tsukiji Hongan-ji Temple and Heian Jingu Shrine, has been designated a National Registered Tangible Cultural Asset. Kihachiro’s eldest son, Kishichiro, established the Hotel Okura in front of it. The museum owns about 2,000 diverse items, including artwork, sculpture, crafts and Noh costumes. Among them, three items have been designated National Treasures and 12 are Important Cultural Assets. There are many Japanese and oriental works and 35,000 books of Chinese classics. Not only can you enjoy the varied collection; you can see the unique decorations of the architect, Ito, everywhere in the building… and the stone images set around the building should not be missed. There is also a special “appreciation” ticket that includes a drink-and-cake set or lunch at the Hotel Okura, making your visit even more pleasant.