Overview
One of Tokyo's delightfully amiable suburban districts, Suginami City Ward is home to a score of local museums and galleries. Appealing contemporary art, animation and manga as well as nods to history and heritage make the city an easy experience. Here is an introduction to some of the museums and galleries of Suginami and how to reach them.
Art Gallery Oppo
Dedicated to fascinating works of enjoyment, Art Gallery Oppo is a small gallery space showcasing creative works across all art genres. From sculptures and photography to paintings and illustrations, the gallery holds regular exhibitions throughout the year. The gallery's free admission makes a visit even more appealing.
A 2-minute walk from Asagaya Station on either the JR Chuo or JR Sobu lines.
Suginami Animation Museum
Suginami Animation Museum is part of Kogei Polytechnic University and focuses on the history - and future - of Japanese animation. A highlight of this free museum is the white pillar covered in the signature and drawings of anime artists. English-audio tours, a digital workshop as well as historical displays also feature.
A 16-minute walk from Nishi-Ogikubo Station on the JR Chuo Line.
Suginami Historical Museum
Another free local museum, the Suginami Historical Museum explores the history of the area with displays and exhibitions. Two historical buildings feature as museum highlights - one an Edo Period family home and the other a nagayamon gate that has been registered as a Tangible Cultural Property.
A 15-minute walk from Eifukucho Station on the Keio Inokashira Line.
Void
An eccentric expression of humour, with and style, Void is a tiny local gallery with a big personality. Beginning life as a space to exhibit illustrations, the gallery has grown to feature manga, graphic novel art as well as photography. The free admission and opportunity for drinks makes an evening visit here a great social experience.
A 4-minute walk from Asagaya Station on either the JR Chuo or JR Sobu lines.
