Toshima City Tokiwaso Manga Museum Complete Guide | The Definitive Tokyo Manga Pilgrimage Site
The “Toshima City Tokiwaso Manga Museum,” which opened on July 7, 2020, in Minami-Nagasaki, Toshima Ward, Tokyo, is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Japanese manga history. It is a museum that faithfully recreates the legendary apartment “Tokiwaso,” where Showa-era manga masters such as Osamu Tezuka, Fujiko Fujio (Fujiko F. Fujio and Fujiko Fujio Ⓐ), Shotaro Ishinomori, and Fujio Akatsuka lived, gathered, and honed their skills in their youth.
This article delivers detailed information based on on-site research, including must-see highlights of the Tokiwaso Manga Museum for manga fans and pilgrims, access methods, reservation system, surrounding pilgrimage spots, and efficient pilgrimage routes.
What is Tokiwaso? The History of How a Manga Holy Site Was Born
History and Historical Significance of Tokiwaso
Tokiwaso was a two-story wooden apartment built in 1952 (Showa 27) in Shiina-cho 5-chome, Toshima Ward, Tokyo (present-day Minami-Nagasaki 3-chome). The rent was approximately 3,000 yen per month, an affordable residence for young manga artists of the time.
The first resident was Osamu Tezuka, who moved in through an introduction by an editor of “Manga Shonen.” Subsequently, through Tezuka’s introductions and word of mouth, talents who would later lead the Japanese manga world moved in one after another, including Fujiko Fujio, Shotaro Ishinomori, Fujio Akatsuka, Hideko Mizuno, Tokuo Yokota, Shinichi Suzuki, and Naoya Moriyasu.
Why Did Tokiwaso Become a Manga Holy Site?
The reason Tokiwaso has been passed down as a holy site is not simply because manga artists lived there. Here, young talents stimulated each other, showed each other their manuscripts, created works collaboratively, and sometimes talked through the night—a true “manga youth era” unfolded.
Four-and-a-half tatami mat rooms, interactions in the communal kitchen, conversations on the stairs. From these everyday moments, numerous masterpieces that shaped Japanese manga culture were born. The origins of works still beloved today, such as “Astro Boy,” “Doraemon,” “Cyborg 009,” and “Osomatsu-kun,” were here.
The Demolition of Tokiwaso and the Path to Reconstruction
Tokiwaso was demolished in December 1982 (Showa 57) due to deterioration. Many manga fans and related parties mourned its loss, but at that time, the concept of building preservation was not as widespread as it is today.
However, calls for Tokiwaso’s revival grew year by year, and Toshima Ward announced construction plans in 2016. Reconstruction work proceeded from 2019 at Minami-Nagasaki Hanasaki Park, located approximately 200 meters west of the original location (where the Nihon Kajo Shuppan new building now stands), and it opened as the “Toshima City Tokiwaso Manga Museum” on July 7, 2020.
Highlights of Toshima City Tokiwaso Manga Museum
Nearly Full-Scale Recreated Building Exterior
The museum’s greatest feature is that it faithfully recreates the Tokiwaso building at nearly full scale. The two-story wooden exterior recreates the appearance from the 1960s, approximately 10 years after Tokiwaso was built.
Particularly noteworthy is the special processing called “aging.” Through this technique, which deliberately gives a weathered appearance to the newly constructed building, it creates an atmosphere as if one has time-slipped to the 1930s Showa era. Attention to detail can be seen throughout, from faded walls to weathered wood and aged-looking signs.
Details of Recreated Living Spaces
Four-and-a-Half Tatami Mat Rooms
On the second floor of the museum, multiple four-and-a-half tatami mat rooms where manga artists actually lived and created works are recreated. Each room is furnished with period furniture, desks, manuscript paper, pens, ink, and reference materials, allowing visitors to experience the creative environment of the manga artists.
Osamu Tezuka’s room contains a desk he reportedly used and medical books (Tezuka held a medical license). Fujiko Fujio’s room recreates the scene of the two working collaboratively, and Shotaro Ishinomori’s room offers a glimpse of his extensive resource collection.
Communal Kitchen
The communal kitchen, which served as a gathering place for Tokiwaso residents, is also faithfully recreated. Here, manga artists prepared simple meals and discussed each other’s works. Period cooking utensils, dishes, and refrigerators are arranged, overflowing with the lived-in feel of the 1950s Showa era.
Entrance, Stairs, and Hallways
The creaking stairs characteristic of wooden apartments, narrow hallways, and simple entrance are also recreated down to the finest details. Even the creaking sound when climbing the stairs is reproduced, allowing visitors to experience Tokiwaso with all five senses.
Toilet and Washroom
The communal toilet and washroom are also recreated as they were. Visitors can learn about Showa-era lifestyle practices that differ greatly from modern facilities through this valuable exhibit.
Special Exhibition Room and Manga Reading Corner
Within the museum, there is a special exhibition room displaying works and materials by manga artists associated with Tokiwaso. Exhibition contents change regularly, and visitors can see valuable materials such as original artwork, handwritten manuscripts, photographs, letters, and period magazines.
Additionally, the manga book reading corner allows free reading of works by manga artists associated with Tokiwaso. Visitors can access numerous masterpieces including “Astro Boy,” “Kimba the White Lion,” “Doraemon,” “Obake no Q-taro,” “Cyborg 009,” “Kamen Rider,” “Osomatsu-kun,” and “Genius Bakabon.”
Anime Tourism Association Certified Holy Site Plaque
The Tokiwaso Manga Museum has been selected as one of the “Anime Holy Sites 88” certified by the Anime Tourism Association. The holy site certification plaque is installed under the stairs on the first floor of the museum and is popular as a commemorative photo spot for pilgrimages.
Admission Information: Reservation Method, Fees, Opening Hours
About the Reservation Priority System
The Tokiwaso Manga Museum adopts a reservation priority system to allow customers to view exhibits safely and comfortably. By making advance reservations through the official website, you can ensure admission.
However, even without a reservation, admission is possible when there is capacity. Particularly on weekday mornings, it is relatively uncrowded, but advance reservations are strongly recommended for weekends, special exhibition periods, summer vacations, and other times when crowds are expected.
Admission Fees
- General: 500 yen
- Elementary and Junior High School Students: 100 yen
- Preschool Children: Free
Toshima Ward residents and those with disability certificates may receive discounts, so please check the official website for the latest information.
Opening Hours and Closed Days
- Opening Hours: 10:00-18:00 (Last admission 17:30)
- Closed Days: Mondays (following weekday if a national holiday), year-end and New Year holidays, exhibition changeover periods
Today’s opening status can be confirmed on the official website’s top page. Be sure to check before visiting.
Access: How to Get to Tokiwaso Manga Museum
Access by Train
Using Toei Oedo Line
Ochiai-Minami-Nagasaki Station Exit A2, approximately 5 minutes on foot is the most accessible route.
- Exit A2 and proceed west on Mejiro-dori
- Turn left at the “Minami-Nagasaki 3-chome” intersection
- Walk straight for about 200m, and Minami-Nagasaki Hanasaki Park will appear on the right
- Proceed into the park to reach the Tokiwaso Manga Museum
Using Seibu Ikebukuro Line
Higashi-Nagasaki Station South Exit, approximately 10 minutes on foot.
- Exit the South Exit and proceed west on Shin-Ome Kaido
- Turn right at the “Minami-Nagasaki 3-chome” intersection
- Walk straight for about 200m, and Minami-Nagasaki Hanasaki Park will appear on the right
Other Lines
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from “Shiinamachi Station” on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line
- Bus from JR Yamanote Line “Mejiro Station”
Access by Bus
From Ikebukuro Station West Exit, take the Seibu Bus bound for “Ekoda 2-chome,” “Ekoda Station,” or “Nagasaki 1-chome,” get off at “Ochiai-Minami-Nagasaki Station” or “Minami-Nagasaki 3-chome” bus stop, approximately 5 minutes on foot.
Access by Car and Parking
There is no dedicated museum parking lot. Using public transportation is strongly recommended. If you must come by car, you will need to use nearby coin parking, but spaces are limited, so it is recommended to check parking locations in advance.
Pilgrimage: Tokiwaso Manga Museum Surrounding Spots
Tokiwaso-dori Rest Area
Located approximately 3 minutes on foot from the Tokiwaso Manga Museum, “Tokiwaso-dori Rest Area” is a facility that disseminates the charm of Minami-Nagasaki, the town where Tokiwaso once stood.
Here, you can purchase official Tokiwaso goods. A wide variety of pilgrimage souvenirs are available, including original T-shirts, clear files, postcards, and replica manga artist autographs. There are also free exhibitions about the history of Tokiwaso and the surrounding area.
Rest spaces are also available, making it ideal for taking a break during your pilgrimage.
Tokiwaso Manga Station
“Tokiwaso Manga Station” is a facility where you can freely read manga books and related publications about Tokiwaso. You can explore Tokiwaso’s history and the works of manga artists from a different angle than the museum.
Here, research books about Tokiwaso, manga artists’ autobiographies, critiques, and interview collections are available—materials for deeper understanding of Tokiwaso culture.
Actual Tokiwaso Site
Approximately 200 meters west of the Tokiwaso Manga Museum, about 3 minutes on foot, is the location where the actual Tokiwaso once stood. Currently, the Nihon Kajo Shuppan new building stands there, but a monument indicating the “Tokiwaso Site” is installed in front of the building.
For pilgrims, this location holds special meaning. Here once stood the apartment where manga masters lived and laid the foundation for Japanese manga culture. Why not reflect on those times in front of the monument?
Chinese Restaurant “Matsuba”
The Chinese restaurant “Matsuba,” frequently visited by Tokiwaso residents, continues to operate today. “Chu-shu-men” (char siu ramen), which the manga artists loved to eat, is still offered as a signature menu item.
Inside the restaurant, autographs and photographs of manga artists associated with Tokiwaso are displayed, allowing you to feel the atmosphere of that time. Why not visit for lunch or dinner during your pilgrimage?
Minami-Nagasaki Hanasaki Park
Minami-Nagasaki Hanasaki Park itself, where the Tokiwaso Manga Museum is built, is also a beautiful park suitable for strolling. Seasonal flowers bloom, and you can relax on benches. Within the park, monuments and panels related to Tokiwaso and manga are also installed.
Tokiwaso-dori Shopping Street
The shopping street around the Tokiwaso site is known as “Tokiwaso-dori Shopping Street” and is advancing town development with a manga theme. Walking through the shopping street, you can see manga character monuments, plaques indicating manga artists’ footsteps, and manga-themed decorations everywhere.
Some stores offer menus and goods related to manga artists associated with Tokiwaso. Stroll leisurely and savor the atmosphere of this manga holy site.
Efficient Pilgrimage Model Courses
Half-Day Course (Approximately 3-4 Hours)
- 10:00 Arrive at Ochiai-Minami-Nagasaki Station
- 10:10 Enter Tokiwaso Manga Museum (approximately 90 minutes required)
- 11:40 Purchase goods and rest at Tokiwaso-dori Rest Area (30 minutes)
- 12:10 Visit the actual Tokiwaso site (15 minutes)
- 12:30 Lunch at Chinese restaurant “Matsuba” (60 minutes)
- 13:30 Stroll through Tokiwaso-dori Shopping Street (30 minutes)
- 14:00 View materials at Tokiwaso Manga Station (30 minutes)
Full-Day Course (Approximately 6-7 Hours)
In addition to the half-day course, add the following:
- Toshima City Local Museum (contains Tokiwaso-related materials)
- Tour sites associated with Osamu Tezuka (Namiki House, etc.)
- Tour manga-related spots in the Shiinamachi/Higashi-Nagasaki area
- Leisurely manga viewing at a cafe
Pilgrimage Points
- Advance Reservation: The museum uses a reservation priority system, so advance reservations are essential for guaranteed admission
- Confirm Opening Days: Note that Mondays are closed
- Bring a Camera: Exterior and surrounding spots are photographable (some restrictions apply inside)
- Comfortable Shoes: Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the surrounding area
- Allow Plenty of Time: The museum alone requires 90 minutes to 2 hours; including surrounding spots requires half a day to a full day
Tokiwaso Manga Museum Special Exhibitions and Events
Past Major Special Exhibitions
The Tokiwaso Manga Museum regularly holds special exhibitions. Past exhibitions have included:
- Osamu Tezuka Birth Anniversary Exhibition
- Fujiko Fujio Special Exhibition
- The World of Shotaro Ishinomori
- Fujio Akatsuka’s Gag Manga Exhibition
- Female Manga Artists of Tokiwaso
- “Manga Shonen” and Tokiwaso
Each exhibition displays materials that cannot normally be seen, such as original artwork, handwritten manuscripts, valuable photographs, and period magazines.
Event Information
The museum also regularly holds lectures, talk events, and workshops. Events featuring manga researchers, critics, and sometimes people associated with Tokiwaso are valuable opportunities for manga fans.
Event information can be checked on the “EXHIBITION & EVENT” page of the official website. Popular events fill up quickly, so frequent checking is recommended.
Toshima Ward’s Town Development Through Manga
Cultural Dissemination Centered on Tokiwaso
Toshima Ward is actively promoting town development through manga, centered on the Minami-Nagasaki area where Tokiwaso once stood. The Tokiwaso Manga Museum serves as the core facility.
The ward positions “town development utilizing manga and anime” as an important policy, aiming for cultural promotion, tourism promotion, and regional revitalization. Multifaceted initiatives are being implemented, including collaboration with the Tokiwaso-dori Shopping Street, holding manga events, and developing manga-related facilities.
Inheriting Tokiwaso Culture
The museum’s role is not simply to display past heritage. An important mission is also to pass on to the next generation the manga culture nurtured at Tokiwaso, the passion and effort of creators, and the spirit of mutual improvement.
Activities to nurture future manga culture are also being developed, including educational programs, support for young manga artists, and manga creation workshops.
Visitor Voices and Reviews
Evaluations from Manga Fans
People who have actually visited have shared comments such as:
- “Seeing the four-and-a-half tatami mat rooms, I was moved that masterpieces were born in such cramped spaces”
- “I was surprised by the realism of the aging processing. It really feels like time-slipping to the Showa era”
- “I can picture manga artists talking together in the communal kitchen”
- “I made a reservation, so I could tour leisurely”
- “Including surrounding pilgrimage spots, I enjoyed a full day”
Pilgrimage Experiences
People who visited as pilgrimages particularly appreciated the following points:
- Commemorative photos with the Anime Tourism Association certified holy site plaque
- Visiting the actual Tokiwaso site provided deeper emotion
- Purchasing goods at Tokiwaso-dori Rest Area was enjoyable
- The experience of eating the same menu as the manga artists at “Matsuba”
- Finding manga-related decorations and monuments in the shopping street
Summary: Experience Japanese Manga History at Tokiwaso Manga Museum
The Toshima City Tokiwaso Manga Museum is not merely a museum. It is the origin of Japanese manga culture and a holy site packed with the youth and passion of creators.
Osamu Tezuka, Fujiko Fujio, Shotaro Ishinomori, Fujio Akatsuka. Tokiwaso, where they lived in their youth, shared dreams, and created works. By visiting the museum that faithfully recreates that space, you can experience an important page of Japanese manga history.
The Tokiwaso Manga Museum is conveniently located in Tokyo with good access and offers comfortable viewing through its reservation priority system. It is a must-see spot not only for manga fans but also for those interested in Japanese culture and pilgrimage enthusiasts.
By visiting together with surrounding pilgrimage spots, you can understand Tokiwaso culture more deeply and trace the footsteps of manga masters. Please visit Minami-Nagasaki, the town where Tokiwaso once stood, with plenty of time.
Check the official website for the latest exhibition information, event information, and reservation status, and plan your pilgrimage. The manga holy site, Tokiwaso, awaits you.
