The Police force is important in any country and Japan is no different. Located in Ginza is a museum that provides an overview of the impressive history of Tokyo’s Metropolitan Police force and entry is completely free. From Meji era (1868-1912) uniforms to confiscated Yakuza goods, the Museum offers a large range of exhibitions and an interesting day out. For younger visitors there is a police issue motorbike to sit on and uniforms to dress up in though I was more interested in the Katana swords upstairs. On the top floor there is even an area to learn through interactive computer equipment such a safe driving simulator. History and technology always mix well.
- 1 min read
Metropolitan Police Museum
The history of Japan's police force

By John Carter
Community writer

You can sit on this retro Yamaha if you wish in the Metropolitan Police Museum at Kyobashi

The evolution of uniforms of the year from both male and female officers

This is the mascot of the Metropolitan Police; Pipo-kun

The stairway to the uppers floors was littered with images depicting the police forces ability. Somewhere just a little comical

Ukiyo-e is my favourite art form and this print was spectacular at the Metropolitan Police Museum at Kyobashi

These diagrams show the uniforms of the Meji Restoration at the Metropolitan Police Museum at Kyobashi

This uniform is from the the 41st year of Showa (1968)

Katanas are something I find fascinating at the Metropolitan Police Museum at Kyobashi

This depictions of gun battle was something extremely interesting at the Metropolitan Police Museum at Kyobashi

There was an area dedicated to the Police band and this particular display was from the 1964 Olympics. I wonder how the 2020 opening ceremony will differ

This exhibition displayed confiscated Yazuka goods at the Metropolitan Police Museum at Kyobashi
Leave a comment
0 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
PokéPark Kanto Set to Open in Spring 2026
Tokyo -
2
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
3
Osaka Noh Festa
Osaka - Sponsored -
4
Watching Noh in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
25 Authentic Activities in Minobu
Yamanashi - Sponsored -
6
Enjoy Toba: More Than Just a Seaside Retreat
Mie - Sponsored -
7
Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
8
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
9
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
10
Azumino, Japan’s Peaceful Highland Getaway
Nagano - Sponsored
-
1
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
2
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
3
July Grand Sumo Tournament (Nagoya)
Aichi -
4
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
5
Tenjin Matsuri
Osaka -
6
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
7
Kamakura Fireworks
Kanagawa -
8
Shitamachi Tanabata Matsuri
Tokyo -
9
Ghibli 3D Sculpture Exhibition
Tokyo -
10
Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
Osaka