Nezu Museum

A strange experience, with opposing vibes that really threw me off.

The museum is described as a beautiful building with a lovely and well kept Japanese style garden. And although this is true, the buildings ultra modern and sleek design really doesn't mesh well with the more natural look of the wilding garden outside.

The juxtapositions carry on inside. The reception staff were kind and welcoming, but the staff on the floor (the attendants within the exhibits) were quite cold and indifferent, acting more like strict teachers or librarians.

Despite the museum being fairly busy, and thus considerable noise from people simply moving around or talking in the concourse area, next to absolute silence was being actively enforced in the galleries. It felt very arbitrary given that it still wasn't quiet due to the hubbub outside.

The way in which the patrons treated the exhibits was one of high regard and particular 'snootiness', whereas (at least in the English sections), the descriptions of the galleries and each item on display was one that invited questions and conversation, to discuss and understand WHY these pieces were important.

Maybe I was expecting something it never was, but it was a strange experience overall. I enjoyed learning some history about a particular part of Japanese (and east Asian) culture, but didn't get on with the more snobby vibe it gave off unlike many museums in Japan.

If you're particularly interested in the exhibits specifically, then do visit. Otherwise, there are far better, more accessible, cheaper, and more welcoming museums throughout Tokyo worth your time.