Ryozen museum — Attraction in Kyoto

Visited in the morning on a weekday in October. Would have had no idea this place existed if it weren't for the recommendation by a local. There's some super significant history here, the museum itself is quite small (no more than an hour to experience) but the stories being told are a very integral part of Japan's history pre Meiji restoration. You're allowed to take photos of specific things, and due to the exhibits being almost all in Japanese they also allow Google translate using your phone's camera.

If you love Ned Kelly and Robin Hood, you'll love Sakamoto Ryōma. Although not quite the same character, he lost his life in defense of a better future for all Japanese people. Quite an unsung hero, as you never hear his name when guides are talking about everything else that happened before/during/after his deeds. Make an effort to read up on the history before visiting.

If you feel as moved as we did, his grave is across the road. He's buried with his friend, Nakaoka Shintarō, who was assassinated along with him and his 19 year old bodyguard who was cut down from behind before he could warn them. There are a few other noteworthy figures buried here. The graveyard is very sombre and built on the side of...

Just incredible, this museum houses multiple pieces of history. There is a lot of material around the assassination of Ryouma Sakamoto. Even a bloodstained wall tapestry from the inn where he was killed. Furthermore, there are the actual katana of Kondou Isami and Hijikata Toushizou. And some other blades which had a big play in Japan's history. Furthermore, the progress of the Meiji restoration is detailed.

There is no English guide though, but many pieces have English descriptions. You might indeed need Wikipedia if you want to know the details. Either way, it's worth coming here if you're interested in seeing exhibits from Japanese imperial history.

The shop is small and has some excellent shiny and borderless Samurai clan logo stickers that are really beautiful and will fit on your mobile phone or other hard surfaces.

Do show your student card - I got in for 400¥ instead of 900¥ because I'm a...

This is a very interesting museum with some fascinating artefacts. However, as an English speaker I had to rely heavily on my phone to translate the Japanese texts, and this is not always reliable. Each placard has a good amount of detail in Japanese but only a few words in English. There are no audio guides, and the English introduction pamphlet only provides some basic context. I'm sure it's taught in Japanese schools, but I would have liked to learn more about the feudal system as it was before the Meiji Restoration, and also the initial contact and relationship between Japan and the West before the Perry Expedition.

I would say to any foreigners who want to visit, that you should definitely go if the topic interests you. But make sure you have full battery on your phone (and possibly a power bank) so you can translate everything. Also, be aware that in Japan most museum displays run from...