Restaurant Details

The Okyokan, a 270-year-old heritage building housed on the premises of the Tokyo National Museum, has seen many custodians in its lifetime. Originally constructed in 1742 as a study room of the Mygoen-in Temple, it was later moved to the premises of Masuda Takashi, the former president of the corporate giant Mitsui and a revered tea master, before being gifted to the museum in 1933.

Today, the structure was reborn as TOHAKU CHAKAN, a creative fusion restaurant-teahouse run by executive chef Bahadir Kolerkilic, who has stinted in the kitchens of Thomas Keller and Alain Ducasse.

There is just as much to say about TOHAKU CHAKAN's revered atmosphere as about Korekilic. Japanese washi paper lanterns made by artisans bask the space in a warm glow; zabuton cushions from the Edo period and the replicas of the fusuma sliding doors by the legendary Edo painter Maruyama Okyo envelop diners in setting steeped in Japanese tradition.

Diners settle into low tables and soak in the view of the lush Japanese garden. In spring, the space is bathed in the soft pink showers of over 100 varieties of cherry blossoms. Summer brings the sound of cicadas, while autumn sets the foliage ablaze in bright reds.

Save for the antique stacked bento box, the menu is mostly a harmonious amalgamation of whatever cuisine Kolerkilic takes inspiration from. The mainstay, however, is the revered respect for Japan-grown ingredients and local produce, churned into stunning multicourses that don’t shy away from eye-watering expenses. One day, diners might find sushi rice crowned with caviar; another day, it could be the decadent Saga beef presented with haute finesse.

As the seasons progress, the selection of vegetables, fruits and fish changes accordingly. The soup stock, simmered for extended periods, infuses the stewed vegetables and fish with profound umami flavors. The drink is just as regional and steadfast, such as the Aramasa sake, which is brewed in Akita using the oldest sake yeast.

TOHAKU CHAKAN Remarks

• Guests with dietary restrictions and/or food allergies should inform the restaurant beforehand. The restaurant might not be able to accommodate guests who make same-day requests.

• The restaurant reserves the right to refuse reservations to guests who have excessive dietary restrictions, particularly those of fish or vegetables.

• The course menu content listed below is an example, and is subject to change based on seasonal availability.

• Photos are for illustrative purposes only.

• While the restaurant will do its best to reserve guest's preferred seating options, it may not always be possible due to availability.

• Guests visiting before 4:30 pm are required to purchase admission tickets for the Tokyo National Museum. This is not required for visitations after 4:30 pm.

• For dinner, the main gate of the Tokyo National Museum will be closed, so please enter through the West Gate, where an attendant will pick guests up.

TOHAKU CHAKAN Business Days

TOHAKU CHAKAN Address

Okyokan, Tokyo National Museum 13-9 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 110-8712

TOHAKU CHAKAN Access Info

• TOHAKU CHAKAN is a 10-minute walk from Ueno Station (Park Exit).

TOHAKU CHAKAN Phone Number

TOHAKU CHAKAN Cancellation Policy

Cancel your reservation at least 48 hours before the dining start time to receive a full refund.