The Advertising Museum Tokyo offers a fascinating look at the world of publicity and marketing. It contains a comprehensive collection of advertising memorabilia and documents, reflecting the development and changes of society’s collective consciousness and purchasing traits over time. Peruse the permanent and traveling exhibits to learn about the history of advertising in Japan, from the 17th century to modern day.
As you walk through the various exhibitions, notice the bright and airy setting, with light wooden floors and white walls. Explore the various temporary displays that delve into advertising in Japan and the rest of the world.
In the permanent collection on the history of Japanese publicity, study the traditional prints and relics that informed yesterday’s world about products. These help explain the societal and economical changes over the years, from the Edo period to the Taisho, Showa and Heisei eras.
Use the interactive displays in the Four Feelings audiovisual gallery. Make your way to the intriguing Collection Table section with over 300,000 advertising items. Here, you can leaf through flyers and prints on the Analog Table and select old commercials and posters to view on the digital screens.
Peruse the various items on display in the Information Museum Shop, which has memorabilia and souvenirs with advertising themes. The complex also has a library and a research area with tables and chairs for extended study.
Note that the museum was inaugurated in 2002 to celebrate 100 years since the birth of a former president of the Dentsu Inc. public relations company. Enter the site for free it opens Tuesday through Saturday from late morning until early evening.
The Advertising Museum Tokyo is in the northeastern part of Minato, in the southern part of the city. Arrive at Shiodome Station via the Oedo Line or the Yamanote Line and walk to the museum within a few minutes. While you’re here, check out other nearby attractions such as the Panasonic Shiodome Museum Rouault Gallery, Gallery TEN and Hamarikyu Asahi Hall.
