Operated by LIXIL Corporation (formerly INAX), this multi-exhibit museum in Tokoname City celebrates the art, technology, and history of ceramics and tiles in Japan.
The complex includes Tile Museum, home to approximately 6,000 tiles spanning global traditions, the restored Kiln Plaza, Architectural Terracotta Museum, Clay Works, Tiling Workshop, and Ceramics Lab. Visitors can enjoy historical displays and hands-on workshops, immersing themselves in everything from ancient tile designs to modern Japanese toilets.
A Brief History of the Tile Museum
Originally built in 1921 as a stoneware pipe factory, this site once produced large ceramic pipes up to 90 centimeters in diameter—the largest in Tokoname. The 22-meter-tall brick chimney, now reinforced for seismic safety, remains a striking landmark. Today, visitors can step inside the original kiln, which has been carefully restored and designated a Tangible Cultural Asset by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs. Through immersive projection mapping, the kiln comes alive with the sights and sounds of what it looked like during its heyday.
Touring the INAX Tile Museum
What began with the donation of a private tile collection has since grown into a multi-facility center that honors both global tile traditions and Tokoname's own industrial modernization.
At the heart of the complex is the Tile Museum, home to over 6,000 ceramic pieces from around the world. Visitors can explore intricately decorated tiles from Islamic cultures, colorful European art tiles, Chinese glazed ceramics, and Japan’s own traditional motifs.
The museum also features an unexpected highlight: a collection of approximately 150 beautifully crafted porcelain toilets from Japan’s Meiji (1868–1912) and Taisho (1912–1926) periods.
Main Attractions:
- Tile Museum: Global tile collections from Islamic, European, Chinese, and Japanese traditions
- Historic Toilets Display: 150 beautifully designed porcelain toilets from the Meiji and Taisho periods
- Kiln Plaza: Restored 1921 brick kiln and chimney, featuring projection mapping and historical interpretation
- Architectural Terracotta Museum: Showcases early 20th-century terracotta from buildings across Japan
- Café & Gift Shop: Offers wood-fired meals and unique ceramic souvenirs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes the Tile Museum unique?
It houses one of the world’s most extensive tile collections (6,000 pieces from over 25 countries), tracing the cultural legacy of tile through ancient to modern times.
Is the kiln open to the public?
Yes, the restored Kiln Plaza allows visitors to enter the original 1920s brick kiln and experience projection mapping of historical firing scenes.
Are there dining options on-site?
Yes, a restaurant serves wood-fired pizza and light fare, and a shop sells LIXIL ceramic products and unique souvenirs.
Are guided tours available?
The INAX museum is a stop on our 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Crafting Traditions in Tokoname and Arimatsu, which also includes visits to Tokoname Pottery Path and Arimatsu.
Recommended Tour: Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Crafting Traditions in Tokoname and Arimatsu offers a unique blend of history, artistry, and local charm, as you are led by an experienced, English speaking guide through two towns famous for their artistic traditions.
Additional Tips
- Best Times to Visit: Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends. The museum is closed on Wednesdays and during New Year holidays.
- Accessibility: The facility offers wheelchair access, elevators, and tactile paving. Wheelchair rentals are also available at the entrance.
- Souvenirs: Be sure to check out the home goods and ceramic items in the museum shop, many are handcrafted and exclusive to the museum. The toilet-shaped sweets are also a popular souvenir!
- Getting There: From Meitetsu Tokoname Station or Centrair Airport, take the Chita Bus to “INAX Live Museum-mae” (a 2-minute walk from the stop). By car, it's about 10 minutes from Centrair via local expressways.
Of course, we also offer private tours and transport in and around the Nagoya area, and other regional destinations. We can also arrange for both custom tours with an English-speaking guide or a private charter.
Our drivers and vehicles are fully certified, allowing us to transport you to and from your preferred destinations in combination with any activity that suits your schedule. All vehicles are well-maintained and in good condition, allowing you to relax and enjoy your ride to wherever you are going.
With door-to-door service, we can pick you up from where you are and take you to where you want to go anywhere in Central Japan and the neighboring regions.
For more information, please check our standard charter rates or contact us for a custom trip. We’d love to be part of your adventure in Central Japan and help you discover even more!
