Kyoto International Manga Museum, Kyoto

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, the Kyoto International Manga Museum stands as a vibrant testament to Japan's rich manga culture. Established in November 2006, this unique institution serves as both a museum and a library, dedicated to the preservation, research, and promotion of manga – comics or graphic novels that are an integral part of Japanese art and entertainment.

The museum is housed in the renovated building of the former Tatsuike Elementary School and boasts an impressive collection of over 300,000 items, including rare historical materials and contemporary works. It has become a pilgrimage site for manga enthusiasts from around the world, offering a comprehensive experience that spans the full spectrum of manga's development, from its origins to its current global influence.

Visitors to the museum can explore a vast array of manga in various languages, delve into temporary exhibitions that showcase specific genres or artists, and participate in hands-on workshops. One of the museum's signature features is the Wall of Manga, an extensive corridor lined with shelves upon shelves of manga volumes, available for reading on-site.

The Kyoto International Manga Museum also plays an educational role by hosting lectures and international symposiums that delve into the academic study of manga. It actively collaborates with researchers and creators to foster a deeper understanding of the medium and its cultural significance.

Open to visitors of all ages, the museum offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of manga, whether it's revisiting beloved classics or discovering new favorites. The museum's commitment to accessibility is evident in its multilingual support, including English explanations for major exhibits.