National Treasures at Tokyo's Gotoh Museum

Located in the western part of central Tokyo in Settigaya

the Goto Museum houses an impressive collection of traditional Japanese and far-eastern art

The current collection has around 5,000 works, including a designated national treasure

the illustrated hand scroll of the tale of the genji. A masterpiece dating back to the 12th century that's generally only available for the

for viewing by the public during the first week of May each year. Travelers browse this private

museum's changing exhibits, including ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, and the gardens with their

tranquil tea house, ponds, and Buddhist statues. While Tokyo has a wide array of interesting museums

ranging from the Sumo Museum to the Mori Art Museum, this off-the-beaten path destination is a nice

respite and interesting book into Asia's rich past