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Anpanman Museum — Hometown of a Hero

Published: Jun 3, 2026

Updated: Jun 3, 2026

museumAnpanmanfamilyanimationYanase Takashi

Anpanman — the bread-headed superhero with a heart of gold — is one of Japan's most beloved characters, especially among young children. Created by Takashi Yanase, who was born in Kochi Prefecture, Anpanman embodies kindness, selflessness, and the simple joy of helping others. The character has appeared in hundreds of books, TV episodes, and films since 1973, and remains a cultural icon.

The Yanase Takashi Anpanman Museum in Kami City is dedicated to Yanase's life and work. The museum displays original Anpanman illustrations, storyboards, and animations, along with interactive exhibits where children can meet life-sized Anpanman statues, enter recreated scenes from the stories, and watch exclusive short films. The museum is surrounded by a hillside park with outdoor sculptures and play areas.

Opening Hours

9:30–17:00 (last entry 16:30). The outdoor Poetry Garden and park grounds are accessible during museum hours. Anpanman Theater screenings run on a fixed schedule inside the museum.

Closed: Closed Tuesdays (open if Tuesday is a public holiday, then closed the following Wednesday). Closed December 29–January 1. Open all other days.

Entrance Fee

¥700 adults, ¥300 children (ages 3–15). Under 3 free. Weekend shuttle bus from Nokichi Station ¥200 round-trip. Museum shop accessible with or without museum ticket.

Best Season

Year-round (primarily indoors). Best visited as part of a Kochi family day that also includes Ryuga Cave (15 min by car). Spring and autumn are most comfortable for the outdoor Poetry Garden.

Visit Duration

Museum visit with theater screening: 90 minutes. With outdoor Poetry Garden and gift shop: 2 hours. Paired with Ryuga Cave: full-day family outing.

Getting There

Access Information

Yanase Takashi Anpanman Museum: 1224-2 Kahoku-machi, Kami City. 25 min by car from Kochi (via Route 195). Open 9:30–17:00, closed Tuesdays. Entry: ¥700 adults, ¥300 children. Budget 90 minutes.

Insider Guide

Premium

**Who should visit:** The museum is designed for families with young children (ages 2–8), but Anpanman fans of all ages will enjoy it. The exhibits are playful and interactive — even non-Japanese spea