National Museum of Japanese History

The National Museum of Japanese History, commonly called Rekihaku, is a government-supported museum in Sakura, Chiba Prefecture that documents Japan’s archaeology and historical development from prehistoric times to the modern era.

Its permanent exhibitions are arranged chronologically to show material culture, maps, documents and artefacts from Jomon and Yayoi periods through feudal and modern Japan, supplemented by rotating special exhibitions. The museum also hosts research projects, publications and educational programmes.

The institution was established in the late 20th century to centralise archaeological and historical resources for research and public education, and it maintains collections, archives and specialist staff for long-term study.

Geographically it is situated in Sakura city in Chiba Prefecture, east of the Tokyo metropolitan area and reachable from Tokyo by regional rail and local transport links.

• Research focus: Known in Japan as Rekihaku, the museum combines public displays with a strong research programme in archaeology and historical studies.
• Location note: Located in Sakura, Chiba Prefecture, it lies within commuting distance east of central Tokyo and is accessible by regional rail and local transport.

What to See #

• Permanent chronological galleries: Chronological permanent galleries that trace Japanese history from prehistoric and archaeological periods through to the modern era with artefacts, maps and documents.
• Research and education facilities: Research facilities and educational spaces supporting archaeological study, public programmes and rotating temporary exhibitions.
• Outdoor exhibits and archaeological displays: Outdoor areas and occasional reconstructed or displayed archaeological finds used for contextual presentation of material culture.