The Toei Animation Museum will be high up on the to-do list for anime fans visiting Tokyo. The museum is dedicated to showcasing the history and works of Toei Animation, a Japanese animation studio that has produced many popular anime series since its founding in 1956.
The relatively new museum opened its doors in July 2018 and is inside the Toei Oizumi Animation Studio in Nerima-ku, Tokyo.
Key Takeaways
- The museum is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with last admission at 4:30 pm.
- The admission fee for adults is 1,000 yen, while children aged 4 to 12 can enter for 700 yen.
- There is currently a reservation system in place
The museum features a range of exhibits that highlight the art and animation techniques used in Toei Animation’s productions over the years.
You can see original sketches, storyboards, and animation cels from famous shows like Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, and One Piece. The museum also has interactive displays that allow visitors to try their hand at voice acting and sound effects.
History of Toei Animation
Toei Animation is a Japanese animation studio that was founded in 1948 as Japan Animated Films. The studio was established by Kenzō Masaoka and Zenjirō Yamamoto, two prominent animators in Japan. The studio’s first animation production was a short film called “The Tale of the White Serpent,” which was released in 1958. This film was a huge success and helped establish Toei Animation as a leading animation studio in Japan.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Toei Animation produced a number of popular anime series, including “Dragon Ball,Sailor Moon,” and “One Piece. These shows helped establish Toei Animation as a major player in the anime industry and helped popularize anime around the world.
In addition to producing anime series, Toei Animation has also produced a number of feature-length animated films. Some of the studio’s most popular films include “Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection ‘F’,Sailor Moon R: The Movie,” and “One Piece Film: Gold.
Today, Toei Animation continues to be a major force in the anime industry, producing popular anime series and films that are enjoyed by anime fans around the world. The studio’s commitment to high-quality animation and engaging storytelling has helped it maintain its position as one of the top animation studios in Japan and the world.
Exhibitions at Toei Animation Museum
The Toei Animation Museum is a fascinating destination for anime enthusiasts and those interested in Japanese animation. The museum features exhibitions that showcase the history, production process, and iconic characters of Toei Animation.
One of the permanent exhibitions at the museum is the “Toei Anime World. This exhibition displays a collection of original artwork, storyboards, and other production materials used in the creation of some of Toei Animation’s most famous anime series such as Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, and One Piece. You can explore the production process of anime and gain insight into the creative process behind these beloved series.
In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the museum also features special exhibitions that change periodically. These exhibitions focus on specific anime series or themes, such as the recent “Kamen Rider” exhibition that celebrated the 50th anniversary of the popular superhero franchise. Be sure to check the museum’s website for information on current and upcoming special exhibitions.
The museum also has a section dedicated to the iconic characters of Toei Animation. This section features life-size statues of popular characters such as Goku from Dragon Ball and Usagi Tsukino from Sailor Moon. You can take photos with these statues and feel like they are a part of the anime world.
Overall, the exhibitions at the Toei Animation Museum provide a unique and immersive experience for fans of anime and Japanese animation. The museum’s collection of original production materials and iconic characters make it a destination for anyone interested in the history and art of anime.
Attractions and Activities
The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of Toei Animation, one of Japan’s most renowned animation studios. You can learn about the studio’s iconic characters and series, including Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon, and One Piece, through exhibits and interactive displays.
One of the highlights of the museum is the chance to see original animation cels and sketches up close. These displays provide a behind-the-scenes look at the animation process and allow visitors to appreciate the artistry and skill that goes into creating each frame of an anime series.
Another popular attraction at the museum is the “play” areas for kids. These areas feature interactive exhibits and activities that allow children to experience the world of anime firsthand. For example, kids can dress up as their favorite characters and pose for photos, or try their hand at voice acting in a recording booth.
In addition to the exhibits and play areas, the museum also offers special events and workshops throughout the year. These events provide an opportunity to learn more about anime and animation, and to meet other fans and industry professionals.
Visiting Toei Animation Museum
If you’re interested in the history of anime and want to experience it firsthand, a visit to the Toei Animation Museum is a great idea. This interactive museum is on the grounds of Toei’s studio in Oizumi, Nerima City, and has large panels that enable visitors to search for Toei’s classic anime characters.
Check the museum’s opening hours before visiting. The museum is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and visitors must enter by 4:30 pm. The museum is closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, as well as during the New Year’s holiday period.
The Sum Up
While the museum is not an attraction for everyone, it is a popular destination for anime fans and those interested in Japanese pop culture. If you’re heading to Tokyo and have some free time, visiting the Toei Animation Museum is a great way to learn more about the history of anime and Toei Animation.
