The Tobacco and Salt Museum may seem like a quirky attraction to outsiders, but in Japan, both tobacco and salt have played a significant role in culture and trade for centuries. This museum explores the history and cultural importance of these two commodities and their relationship with humankind.
The Tobacco and Salt Museum spans five floors:
- The first floor houses the entrance, museum shop, and a workshop/training room, where visitors can participate in educational sessions.
- The second floor is dedicated to salt, exploring its production, uses, and global significance. This floor also features a special exhibition room showcasing temporary exhibits.
- The third floor focuses on the history and culture of tobacco, detailing its journey from South America to Japan and beyond. This floor also includes an audio-visual hall with engaging multimedia presentations.
- The fourth and fifth floors contain a small reading room and a lounge area, providing a quiet space for visitors to relax and explore additional materials on tobacco and salt.
Recently relocated from Shibuya to Asakusa, the Tobacco and Salt Museum is just a short walk from Tokyo Skytree. To get there, take the Tobu Skytree Line and use Exit 1—from there, it’s an eight-minute walk south. After crossing a small bridge, the museum is about five blocks ahead on the right.
The museum is open from 10am to 5pm and is typically closed on Mondays and New Year’s holidays Admission fees are 100 yen for Adults or 50 yen for over 65 and High School Children and lower.
Official Website https://www.tabashio.jp/info/index.html
