The Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum, located in Masuda Town, Yokote City, Akita Prefecture, is an essential pilgrimage destination for manga fans. Opened in 1995 as Japan’s first full-scale art museum themed on “collecting original manga artwork,” it underwent a renovation and reopened in 2019. Currently, it houses over 490,000 original artworks and preserves and exhibits valuable works by more than 180 renowned manga artists from Japan and abroad.
This article provides a comprehensive introduction to the attractions of the Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum for manga enthusiasts and those planning sacred site pilgrimages. From the characteristics of the facility and exhibition contents to access methods and nearby tourist spots, we explain the information you should know before visiting in a comprehensive manner.
About the Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum
History of Japan’s First Specialized Manga Original Art Museum
The Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum opened in October 1995 to commemorate the achievements of manga artist Takao Yaguchi, who was born in Masuda Town. The museum was established to honor Takao Yaguchi’s accomplishments, known for masterpieces such as “Tsurikichi Sanpei,” and to serve as a base for disseminating the appeal of manga culture, which Japan boasts to the world.
In May 2019, a large-scale renovation was implemented to expand the exhibition space. The original artwork preservation environment was upgraded with the latest technology, establishing a system to make more valuable original artworks available to the public. Currently, it attracts approximately 100,000 visitors annually and has become a representative cultural facility in the Tohoku region.
Facility Characteristics and Collection
The greatest feature of the Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum is that it combines three functions: “collection, preservation, and exhibition” of manga original artworks. Rather than being merely a display facility, it also serves as an archival institution for inheriting Japanese manga culture to the future.
The collection comprises over 490,000 pieces, including original artworks by more than 180 renowned manga artists such as Takao Yaguchi, Osamu Tezuka, Fujiko Fujio A, Tetsuya Chiba, Rumiko Takahashi, Takao Saito, and Hideaki Sorachi. These original artworks are preserved in dedicated storage facilities with strictly controlled temperature and humidity, and are carefully protected as valuable assets of manga culture.
Appeal as a Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spot
Why Manga Fans Should Visit
The Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum is a special destination for sacred site pilgrimages among manga fans. The reason is the valuable opportunity to encounter “actual original artworks” that cannot be seen elsewhere.
You can directly observe details that are invisible in printed manga volumes—the artist’s brushwork, correction marks, pen pressure variations—and much more that can only be seen in original artworks. The original artworks meticulously drawn by manga artists one by one are true works of art. In today’s increasingly digital age, the value of analog-drawn original artworks continues to rise.
Appeal of Special Exhibitions
In addition to permanent exhibitions, the Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum regularly hosts special exhibitions. In the past, major exhibitions of popular works such as “Gintama Exhibition” and “Demon Slayer Exhibition” have been held at the Akita venue, attracting numerous fans from across the country.
Special exhibitions feature rare original artworks, production materials, and artists’ handwritten messages that cannot normally be viewed. With partnerships with major publishers like Shueisha, the museum actively invites exhibitions of trending works. We recommend checking the official website for the latest exhibition information before your visit.
Highlights of the “Manga Warehouse Exhibition Room”
The core of the Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum is the “Manga Warehouse Exhibition Room.” Original artworks by renowned manga artists are displayed permanently in a space designed to evoke traditional warehouses of Masuda Town.
In this exhibition room, original artworks including Takao Yaguchi’s masterpiece “Tsurikichi Sanpei” are featured as the centerpiece, with works by various artists displayed throughout the year. Exhibits are rotated regularly, making each visit a source of new discoveries.
The exhibition room maintains strictly controlled temperature and humidity to preserve original artworks in optimal conditions. Special lighting that does not damage original artworks is used throughout, demonstrating the museum’s high level of professional expertise.
Facility Information and Usage Guide
Opening Hours and Closures
Opening Hours
10:00–18:00 (Last admission 17:30)
Closed Days
Third Tuesday of every month (if a holiday, the following weekday)
Year-end and New Year period (December 29 – January 3)
*The museum may close temporarily during special exhibition preparation periods.
Opening hours and closure dates may change, so we recommend confirming the latest information on the official website or by phone before your visit.
Admission Fees
Permanent Exhibition
- General admission: ¥800
- High school students: ¥500
- Middle school students and younger: Free
Special Exhibitions
Admission fees vary depending on exhibition content. In most cases, a combined ticket price for both permanent and special exhibitions is offered; please check the details for each special exhibition.
Group Discounts
Discounted rates apply for groups of 20 or more. Advance reservations are required, so please contact the museum in advance if you plan a group visit.
Free Admission Days
Free admission days are set several times per year. Information about special opening days coordinated with local events will be announced on the official website and SNS.
In-Museum Facilities and Services
The Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum offers various facilities in addition to exhibition rooms.
Manga Library
A space where approximately 15,000 manga volumes can be freely browsed. A wide range of genres are available, from classic titles to the latest releases. It is a comfortable space where you can sit and enjoy reading at leisure, and you can even spend an entire day there.
Museum Shop
Original merchandise, works by local artists, and specialty products from Akita Prefecture are sold here. As a memento of your visit or a keepsake of your sacred site pilgrimage, many limited-edition items available only at this shop are stocked.
Concierge Service
Professional staff are stationed in the museum to provide explanations of exhibitions, guided tours of the facility, and information about nearby attractions. If you have questions about manga or wish to gain a deeper understanding of works, please feel free to ask the staff.
Access Methods
Access by Train and Bus
By JR
Get off at “Jumonji Station” on the JR Ou Main Line
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Take a bus toward Masuda Town (Iigawa Line or Yokote-Oyasu Line) for approximately 15 minutes
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Get off at “Masuda Kura no Eki” bus stop, then walk approximately 10 minutes
As the number of buses is limited, we recommend confirming the schedule in advance. Note that the number of buses may decrease on weekends and holidays.
From Akita Airport
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car
Car rental is convenient.
Access by Car
By Highway
Tohoku Expressway “Kitakami JCT”
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Akita Expressway “Yokote JCT”
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Approximately 10 minutes from “Jumonji IC” on the Tohoku Central Expressway
Navigation Settings
Address: 285 Shin-machi, Masuda, Masuda Town, Yokote City, Akita Prefecture
Phone Number: 0182-45-5569
Parking Information
Free parking available (capacity for approximately 100 ordinary vehicles)
Large bus parking spaces available (advance notice required)
Convenient Smartphone Access Information
Google Maps or your smartphone’s map application is convenient for navigation to the location. Search for “Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum” and the optimal route from your current location will be displayed.
MAP information is also posted on the official website and can be checked together with nearby tourist attractions. It’s helpful to bookmark the site on your smartphone beforehand for smooth navigation on the day of your visit.
Nearby Tourist Spots and Sacred Site Pilgrimage Courses
Masuda Tourist Information Center “Kura no Eki”
Located about a 5-minute walk from the Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum, “Kura no Eki” is a tourist information hub for Masuda Town. It is an ideal place to purchase local specialty products and souvenirs as well as gather tourist information.
Masuda Town is known as a “warehouse town,” and many traditional warehouses have been preserved. At Kura no Eki, you can also book interior warehouse viewing tours. Visiting both the manga museum and Masuda Town allows for a deeper understanding of the town’s culture.
Urushi Warehouse Museum (Manga Original Art Archive Center)
Operating as a branch of the Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum, the Urushi Warehouse Museum is a facility utilizing a traditional warehouse. A portion of the vast collection of original artworks housed in the main museum is stored here, and it may be possible to view them during special opening events.
This spot offers a unique opportunity to experience the fusion of historic architecture and manga culture, distinctive to Masuda Town.
Hinomaru Brewing Co., Ltd. (Mansaku no Hana)
A sake brewery representing Akita Prefecture, known for the premium sake “Mansaku no Hana.” The sake brewed here using the abundant water and rice of Masuda Town has received high acclaim nationwide.
Brewery tours and tastings are available (by reservation), making it possible to enjoy Akita’s culture alongside your visit to the manga museum. Enjoying local sake after your sacred site pilgrimage is also recommended.
Haba Koji Tea Shop Kura
A cafe and restaurant utilizing a traditional interior warehouse in Masuda Town. You can enjoy local cuisine and Akita specialties such as Inaniwa udon noodles.
This rare location allows you to enjoy meals while experiencing the atmosphere of a warehouse, and it is also within walking distance of the manga museum. It is ideal for stopping by for lunch or afternoon tea.
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Model Courses
Half-Day Course (Approximately 4 hours)
10:00 Arrival at Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum
10:00–12:30 Viewing permanent and special exhibitions
12:30–13:30 Lunch at Haba Koji Tea Shop Kura
13:30–14:30 Shopping and interior warehouse viewing at Masuda Tourist Information Center “Kura no Eki”
14:30 Departure
Full-Day Course (Approximately 7 hours)
10:00 Arrival at Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum
10:00–13:00 Viewing exhibitions and reading at the Manga Library
13:00–14:00 Lunch
14:00–15:00 Interior warehouse tour in Masuda Town
15:00–16:00 Hinomaru Brewing tour (by reservation)
16:00–17:00 Shopping at Kura no Eki
17:00 Departure
Event Information and How to Obtain Latest Information
Regular Events
The Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum hosts various events throughout the year.
Artist Talk Events
In conjunction with special exhibitions, talk shows and autograph sessions featuring manga artists may be held. Popular artist events often fill up quickly, so early information gathering is important.
Workshops
Manga drawing classes and demonstrations by professional manga artists are regularly offered. The content appeals to a wide range of participants from beginners to experienced artists.
Birth Anniversary Commemorations
Special exhibitions commemorating the birth anniversaries of renowned manga artists are sometimes organized. Past commemorations have included exhibitions of works by giants like Osamu Tezuka and Fujiko Fujio.
SNS and Official Information
For the latest event and exhibition information, we recommend following the museum’s official SNS.
Official X (formerly Twitter)
@m_mangamuseum
Event information, exhibition changes, and announcements of temporary closures are posted in real time.
Official Website
https://manga-museum.com/
Detailed information on special exhibitions, opening calendar, access information, and other essential pre-visit information is comprehensively available.
Online Shop
An online shop is also operated for those who cannot visit in person. Limited merchandise and exhibition catalogues can be purchased.
Precautions and Etiquette During Your Visit
Etiquette in Exhibition Rooms
Original artworks are extremely delicate. Please observe the following etiquette while viewing.
Photography
While some areas of the permanent exhibition permit photography, photographing original artworks is fundamentally prohibited. Clearly marked signs indicate where photography is allowed; always check beforehand. In special exhibitions, photography may be completely prohibited.
Artwork Protection
Touching display cases or using flash photography is strictly forbidden. Original artworks are sensitive to light and vibration and must be preserved in appropriate conditions.
Quiet Appreciation
View the artworks quietly so as not to disturb other visitors. Please set your mobile phone to silent mode.
Strategies for Crowded Times
During special exhibition periods and on weekends and holidays, crowding is expected.
Weekday Visits Recommended
For leisurely viewing, weekday mornings are relatively less crowded.
Advance Reservations
If you plan a group visit or wish to participate in a special event, advance reservations are required. Reservations can be made through the official website.
Estimated Time Needed
Permanent exhibition only: 1–2 hours
Including special exhibitions: 2–3 hours
Including the Manga Library: 3–4 hours
Other Manga and Anime Sacred Sites in Akita Prefecture
Manga Culture of Akita Prefecture
Akita Prefecture has produced many renowned manga artists, including Takao Yaguchi. Beyond the Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum, various manga and anime-related spots are scattered throughout the region.
Manga Spots in Akita City
In central Akita City, there are monuments to manga artists and related facilities. As the prefectural capital, access is also favorable.
Yuzawa City
Yuzawa City, adjacent to Masuda Town, is also deeply connected to manga culture. Known as a hot spring destination, it can be visited in combination with sightseeing.
Planning a Sacred Site Pilgrimage
When planning a manga sacred site pilgrimage in Akita Prefecture, it is recommended to center around the Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum and combine it with nearby attractions.
One-Night, Two-Day Plan
Day 1: Akita City sightseeing → Travel to Yokote City → Local cuisine such as Yokote yakisoba
Day 2: Masuda Manga Art Museum → Masuda Town warehouse tour → Return home
Two-Night, Three-Day Plan
Day 1: Akita City sightseeing
Day 2: Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum → Masuda Town sightseeing
Day 3: Yuzawa City sightseeing → Return home
Conclusion: Experience Something Special at the Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum
The Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum is a sacred site pilgrimage destination that manga fans should visit at least once. As Japan’s first full-scale art museum specializing in manga original artworks, housing over 490,000 pieces, you can fully experience the appeal of manga culture.
In the permanent exhibition, you can view valuable original artworks by renowned manga artists including Takao Yaguchi, and in special exhibitions, you can enjoy in-depth presentations of trending works. You can spend an entire day reading familiar works at the Manga Library or purchasing original merchandise at the museum shop.
The fusion of traditional warehouse culture of Masuda Town and contemporary manga culture is another appealing aspect. By visiting nearby tourist attractions, you can gain a deeper understanding of Akita Prefecture’s culture.
Those planning a sacred site pilgrimage should check the official website and SNS for the latest exhibition information and plan your visit around the timing of special exhibitions. While car access is convenient, the museum is also accessible by public transportation.
Why not experience something special at the sacred site of Japanese manga culture, the Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How much time should I allocate for the Yokote City Masuda Manga Art Museum?
A1: For the permanent exhibition alone, 1–2 hours is a standard estimate; for both permanent and special exhibitions, plan for 2–3 hours. If you plan to enjoy leisurely reading at the Manga Library, allow 3–4 hours. Time varies depending on exhibition content and crowding, so we recommend visiting with time to spare.
Q2: Is photography permitted?
A2: Some areas of the permanent exhibition allow photography, but photographing original artworks is fundamentally prohibited. Clearly marked signs indicate where photography is allowed; always check beforehand. In special exhibitions, photography may be completely prohibited. Flash photography is completely forbidden for artwork protection.
Q3: Is there parking available?
A3: Free parking is provided with capacity for approximately 100 ordinary vehicles. Large bus parking spaces are also available, but if you plan a group visit, we recommend contacting the museum in advance. During special exhibitions on weekends and holidays, parking may become crowded.
Q4: Are there dining options nearby?
A4: Within walking distance, there are restaurants such as “Haba Koji Tea Shop Kura” where you can enjoy dishes made with local ingredients. Light meals can also be purchased at the Masuda Tourist Information Center “Kura no Eki.” Additionally, several restaurants are located just a few minutes’ drive away, so dining options are available.
Q5: Where can I find information about special exhibitions?
A5: The official website (https://manga-museum.com/) and official X (@m_mangamuseum) post the latest information. Popular work exhibitions may fill up early, so we recommend checking regularly. Admission fees for special exhibitions vary depending on the content.
Q6: Can families with children enjoy this museum?
A6: Admission is free for middle school students and younger, and the Manga Library has many children’s titles. However, out of consideration for maintaining a quiet viewing environment, we ask that those with young children be mindful of others. Nursing rooms and diaper-changing stations are also provided.
Q7: Is public transportation access convenient?
A7: It is approximately 15 minutes by bus from JR Jumonji Station, followed by about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop. However, bus services are limited, so we recommend confirming the schedule beforehand. Note that the number of buses may decrease on weekends and holidays. Car access is more convenient.
Q8: Is it possible to visit with a group?
A8: Discounted rates apply for groups of 20 or more. Advance reservations are required, so please contact the museum through the official website or call 0182-45-5569. Special group programs may be available.
