Takanawa was a moon-viewing spot

The Tokugawa Shogunate built the Takanawa Okido Gate at Edo during the Edo Period (1603-1868). The gate was on the Koshu Kaido and Tokaido roads to keep the area safe and manage traffic.

Takanawa Seaside was a beautiful place, as depicted in a Ukiyo-e woodblock print of a moon-viewing spot.

Takanawa is also where, during the Meiji Period, a fusion of Japanese and Western technologies led to innovation: the first train in Japan ran there.

After the Japan National Railway was privatized to become JR companies, the place continued to be used as a train base for the Tokaido Line and overnight express train cars, with a decrease in all-night express trains and the opening of the Ueno-Tokyo Line, the number of train cars stationed at the base decreased, and the base’s role diminished. As a result, the 13ha of land became available for development.

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A Unique Structure That Spirals Upward, MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives

When you leave JR Takanawa Gateway Station and walk for 5 minutes along the deck, you will see a unique structure that spirals upward. World-famous architect Kengo Kuma and Associates designed the building’s exterior. A lot of lumber is used outside, and the greens planted on the wall are impressive. It looks like a tree stump.

The name Mon means “gate” to the new world, and also “question” about how to live for the future, setting the tone for the museum’s philosophy.

The museum holds two exhibitions a year, each based on a different theme. During my visit, various opening events called MoN Fes (March 28 ~ April 17) were being held throughout the venue.

As you enter the lobby, you will find a board displaying messages by Japanese artists and creators in response to the question, “What culture do you want to pass on for the next 100 years?”

On the 2nd floor, the select shop “Spiral Market” sells Japanese craftworks from across the country, along with design goods, stationery, tote bags, and key holders that resemble pass permits from the Edo Period.

Continuing upward, on the 3rd floor are three small exhibition spaces for events and workshops.

“Train Terrace” offers views of passing trains, while “MoN Kitchen” features dishes such as meats, desserts, and wine.

On the 4th floor is a spacious “Tatami” space. Japanese events, including Japanese music performances, Rakugo, and Kagura, will be held here. Used tea leaves are used for tatami for deodorization and antibacterial properties.

If you go up the slope from the 4th floor, you will go to “Box 1500”, a 1500m2 event space. A special exhibition, Guru-Guru (spiral), to explore human development, is being held until September 23. The goods shop sells T-shirts, a bag, and sandals.

The 6th floor has a foot bath heated by solar energy. This is a relaxation spot surrounded by lush greens.

“LAUBE” is a rooftop restaurant in the garden. It serves healthy cuisine made with fresh ingredients from across the country, soup, and sweets.

On the rooftop is “MoN Shrine” where the local gods are enshrined to guard the safety and prosperity of this place. Also, there is the MoN Farm, which grows herbs, vegetables, and flowers. Visitors enjoy the change of seasons all year round.

One of the museum’s features is a huge theatre space that extends from the basement to the 3rd floor.  At “Box1000”, the live performance “MANGALOGUE” is running until May 15.

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MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives

Takanawa Gateway City, 16-1 3-chome, Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo

Open:  10:00~21:00

It differs by the programs and the shops.

Closed on the 2^nd Tuesday of every month