Ever wondered how Japanese anime is brought to life? Whether you’re a lifelong anime fan or just anime-curious, the Tokyo Polytechnic University Suginami Animation Museum in Tokyo’s Suginami ward, is the perfect place to directly experience the process of anime production. Located in an area that’s home to the headquarters of more than 50 animation studios, the museum also offers a unique opportunity to understand why Suginami is known as one of the creative epicenters of the anime world.

As the first facility in Japan dedicated to showcasing and exhibiting Japanese animation, Suginami Animation Museum pulls back the curtain on everything from hand-drawn cells to voice acting and editing. Plus, it’s completely free to enter and just a short ride from central Tokyo.

The Exhibit Highlights of Suginami Animation Museum – Discover the Secrets Behind the Scenes

The main entrance and permanent exhibition space of Suginami Animation Museum are located on the third floor of the Suginami Kaikan (Suginami Assembly Hall) building, where immersive displays walk you through the evolution and inner workings of anime.

One wall here is dedicated entirely to the history of Japanese animation, stretching from the industry’s early years around 1917 all the way to today. Through images, video clips, and commentary, this timeline showcases the rapid development of anime’s visual style, themes, and global reach.

Nearby, you’ll spot a pillar wrapped in hand-signed illustrations by some of Japan’s most renowned anime artists and directors. From iconic creators of the Showa era to modern animation legends, you’re likely to recognize a few names—and a few familiar faces drawn in their signature styles.

This floor also includes a recreated anime studio setup featuring desks for a director, art director, and animation director. Each desk displays handwritten notes and hand-drawn sketches, showing just how detailed and time-consuming the animation process can be—even today. While much of the industry has gone digital, these analog workspaces offer a valuable glimpse into the labor-intensive heart of traditional anime production.

You’ll also get hands-on with the optical toys that predate film animation: the phenakistoscope, zoetrope, and praxinoscope. These early animation devices use spinning frames and optical illusion to create motion—a fun and fascinating look at how animation began before the advent of computers.

On the same floor, a rotating exhibition area introduces Suginami’s hyperlocal studios, giving visitors insight into various production houses that contribute to the ward’s reputation as an anime hub.

Though compact in size, the museum is packed with information and well-curated exhibits that make it easy to explore at your own pace. The permanent exhibits include explanations with English translations, and free audio guides are available in English, Chinese, Korean, and French. To borrow one, just ask at the information desk—you’ll be asked to sign your name and phone number.

Try It Yourself – Anime Workshops for All Ages

For those wanting to dive deeper, the Suginami Animation Museum offers a range of interactive experiences and occasional workshops. One of the most popular is the anime production experience corner, where you can create a short animated sequence using tracing templates or your own drawings. Snap photos of each frame and bring your story to life—no reservation needed.

And don’t miss the afureko (after-recording) experience: step into a small recording booth to add your own voice and sound effects to classic anime scenes like Astro Boy. You can do this in English, too—a rare and entertaining opportunity to understand Japan’s distinctive dubbing method, where voices are recorded after the visuals are complete.

Occasional workshops, such as video tracing or themed sessions tied to special exhibits, are also held at the museum. The museum’s event schedule is updated as needed throughout the year. If you’re coming in a group of seven or more, be sure to book at least two weeks in advance via the English/Japanese inquiry form online. Group capacity is limited to around 30 people, so making a reservation is essential.

Dive Into New Worlds – Special Exhibitions & Theater Events

Head up to the mid-third floor, a mezzanine-style level between the third and fourth floors, to find the Anime Library, special exhibition space, and the anime theater.

The library is a cozy corner packed with anime-related books, DVDs, and exclusive interview footage with creators. It’s the kind of space where you can easily lose track of time—perfect for a quiet break between exhibits.

The nearby gallery hosts rotating special exhibitions three to four times a year. These range from showcases of legendary creators to anniversary retrospectives and genre spotlights. Since the museum is operated by the Association of Japanese Animations (AJA), it’s able to feature a wide variety of creators and studios—unlike some museums that are licensed to represent only one franchise.

Also located on the mid-third floor is the museum’s anime theater, which features a 200-inch screen and 5.1-channel surround sound. Screenings range from hard-to-find classics to staff-curated gems, and sometimes include guest talks by directors, animators, or reviewers. Note that most screenings do not include English subtitles, so while the visuals are enjoyable for everyone, some content may be best appreciated by those with some Japanese language skills.

Pick Up a Unique Souvenir Featuring Local Mascots and Anime Goods

Before you head out, stop by the museum’s small but well-stocked souvenir shop near the information desk. The selection changes frequently and includes anime books, keychains, illustration prints, pens, and other collectibles tied to recent exhibits.

You’ll also find items featuring Namisuke, the round-faced, green-finned official anime character of Suginami Ward, and his sister Nammy. From plush toys and stationery to colorful name tag straps, these goods are popular among visitors and ideal for souvenirs.

Don’t miss the visitor stamp, featuring a charming illustration of the museum—a fun way to commemorate your trip, especially if you collect stamps from locations around Japan. You can also receive a Suginami manhole cover card at the museum’s information desk. This collectible card features Namisuke and is part of a popular nationwide series that highlights local mascot-themed manhole covers.

It’s a fun and meaningful way to take home a piece of Suginami—whether you’re shopping or just collecting a few thoughtful keepsakes.

Plan Your Visit to Suginami Animation Museum: Hours, Access & Tips

The Suginami Animation Museum is open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with last entry at 5:30 p.m. It’s closed on Mondays (except for national holidays) and during the year-end/New Year holidays (Dec 28 – Jan 4). Admission is free for all visitors.

Some exhibitions may close earlier—for example, temporary exhibits often end at 4:00 p.m. on their final day—so check the official calendar in advance.

The museum is equipped with free Wi-Fi and offers audio guides in multiple languages, including English. While most of the permanent exhibit has English signage, the aforementioned audio guide fills in the details.

If you’re traveling with a group of seven or more, be sure to make a reservation ahead of time.

How to Get to Suginami Animation Museum from HOTEL TAVINOS Hamamatsucho

Staying at HOTEL TAVINOS Hamamatsucho? Getting to the Suginami Animation Museum is easy and takes about 45 minutes by public transport.

1. From Hamamatsucho Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Shinjuku Station.
2. Transfer to the JR Chuo Line (local) and get off at Ogikubo Station.
3. From the north exit, take a short 5-minute taxi ride or catch a Kanto Bus from either bus stop no.0 or no.1. The museum building is just a 2-minute walk from Ogikubo Keisatsusho-mae (Ogikubo Police Station) Bus Stop.

Prefer walking? The museum’s about a 20-minute stroll from Ogikubo Station.
 

Whether you’re passionate about Japanese animation or simply curious about what makes anime so globally beloved, the Suginami Animation Museum delivers a rich, engaging experience. With its hands-on activities, rare screenings, and wide-ranging exhibits, this Tokyo anime museum offers something for everyone — from casual visitors to hardcore fans. For an inspiring and authentic glimpse into the heart of anime, don’t miss this charming spot in Suginami.

Tokyo Polytechnic University Suginami Animation Museum

Address: 3F Suginami Kaikan, 3-29-5 Kamiogi Suginami-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm (last entry at 5:30 pm)
Closed: Mondays (open on national holidays and closed on the following weekday), and from December 28 to January 4
Website: https://sam.or.jp/english_home

Writer

Lisa Wallin
A curious sojourner, Lisa Wallin has lived in Japan for about 15 years, along with 7 other countries. She has an insatiable appetite for local narratives, with a focus on regional culture, crafts and food. When not chasing stories, she enjoys coffee, visiting shrines, and exploring the country both with and without her dogs.