Yokohama Doll Museum

Yokohama Doll Museum – Yokohama, Japan

The Yokohama Doll Museum is a cultural destination that honours the art and tradition of dolls from around the world.

Founded in 1978 after a private doll collection was donated to Yokohama City, the museum is now home to more than 10,000 dolls representing over 100 countries, offering a global representation of craftsmanship and tradition throughout its four-storey building.

The permanent exhibition begins with the Nostalgic Harbor gallery, which tells the story of Yokohama’s early history as a port city. Using dolls and historic photographs, the exhibit illustrates how the opening of Yokohama to international trade made it a vital gateway between Japan and the rest of the world. Visitors can explore how global influences and cultural exchange shaped both the city and its people.

Other key exhibits highlight dolls from across Japan, Europe, and beyond. Temporary exhibits offer a regular influx of new themes and collections, while the theatre space hosts puppet shows, concerts, and family-friendly performances.

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