The Osamu Tezuka Manga Museum

Must Do Experiences

• Browse the massive manga library featuring thousands of original works and rare global translations of Tezuka's masterpieces.

• Step into the animation workshop to learn the fundamentals of anime production and create your very own flipbook or short animation.

• Wander through the immersive themed exhibits that recreate the iconic worlds, characters, and settings from beloved stories like Kimba the White Lion.

• Explore the basement exhibition hall to trace the fascinating timeline of Tezuka's life and his deep connection to Takarazuka city.

Hidden Gems

• Look out for the subtle character motifs embedded in the museum's architecture, including the Astro Boy streetlights and Kimba the White Lion statues around the building.

• Check out the exclusive museum shop for limited-edition merchandise and rare art prints that cannot be purchased anywhere else in Japan.

• Take a quiet moment in the rooftop garden, which offers lovely views of the Mukogawa River and features hidden tributes to Tezuka's lesser-known characters.

What Makes it Special

• It is the only museum in the world entirely dedicated to Osamu Tezuka, the pioneering artist who essentially created the modern manga and anime industries.

• The museum offers a highly interactive experience where visitors do not just view art, but actively participate in the animation creation process.

• It houses an unparalleled archival collection of Tezuka's original manuscripts, sketches, and personal artifacts spanning his entire career.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Arrive right at the 9:30 AM opening time on a weekday to enjoy the exhibits with minimal crowds and secure a spot in the popular animation workshop. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for combining your museum visit with a scenic stroll along the nearby Mukogawa River. Avoid Japanese national holidays and school vacation periods if you prefer a quieter, more contemplative experience.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the iconic Astro Boy and Black Jack bronze statues outside the museum entrance during the soft morning light for the best exterior shots.

• Focus on the intricate details of the original ink manuscripts in the display cases, ensuring your flash is turned off to respect preservation rules.

• Head to the rooftop terrace or the large glass windows facing the Mukogawa River for beautiful architectural and scenic photos of the surrounding Takarazuka landscape.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Maintain a quiet and respectful volume while inside the exhibition halls, as many visitors are deeply engrossed in reading the manga and studying the artwork. Refrain from touching the original manuscripts or display glass to help preserve these priceless pieces of Japanese pop culture history for future generations.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The museum frequently hosts limited-time special exhibitions focusing on specific themes, anniversaries, or lesser-known works from Tezuka's vast portfolio.

• During the summer and winter school holidays, the museum organizes special family-friendly animation workshops and character stamp rallies.

• Visit in early November to coincide with the Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize events and related local celebrations in Takarazuka city.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Keep a close eye on young children, especially in the animation workshop and interactive zones where delicate equipment and displays are present.

• Watch your step on the sloped pathways and staircases connecting the different exhibition floors, utilizing the elevators if you have mobility concerns or are carrying heavy bags.