10 Mural Art in Tokyo, Tokyo Travel
※updated on July 28 2025
Unlike galleries or museums, mural art is something anyone can casually encounter in everyday life. You might stumble upon it by chance while walking down the street, or discover it through social media. Some works blend seamlessly with the architecture and atmosphere of the city, while others leave a strong impression by intentionally standing out with a contrasting aura. Each mural carries its own meaning and offers a unique appeal depending on the viewer. One of the distinctive powers of mural art is its ability to make passersby stop and take a moment to appreciate it.
Tokyo is home to a wide variety of vibrant mural art. From famous works that have gone viral on social media to hidden gems that can only be found by visiting in person, the range of expression is incredibly diverse. Some reflect historical backgrounds, others convey social messages, and some simply aim to bring joy. Mural art encompasses many layers of meaning.
Of course, you don’t have to think too deeply—just enjoying the visuals is valuable in itself.
Here, we introduce a selection of mural art that adds color and character to the streets of Tokyo.
1) Traja (Travis Japan Mural)
This mural art features the faces of two individuals, their expressions rendered with delicate lines and a vivid array of colors. What stands out most is the piercing gaze that seems to follow you, leaving a strong impression. Located in a neighborhood filled with residential buildings and commercial establishments, the mural feels as though it appears suddenly amidst the cityscape. It is painted on the exterior wall of a building owned by the fashion boutique SHARE SPIRIT.
This piece gained attention when members of the popular Japanese boy group Travis Japan did a photo shoot here. Since then, it has become affectionately known among fans as the “Traja Wall.”
The vibrant colors and refined brushwork make it feel more like a painting than a mural—so beautiful, it’s hard to believe it’s on a wall.
Traja (Travis Japan Mural)
Mural Art Tokyo
2) Myth of Tomorrow in Shibuya
Located in the connecting passage of Shibuya Station, Myth of Tomorrow is a massive mural by legendary Japanese artist Taro Okamoto. Standing out in the midst of Shibuya's constant hustle and bustle, this powerful work is familiar to many who pass through the station. Okamoto is best known for Tower of the Sun, created for the 1970 Osaka Expo, and is considered one of Japan’s most influential artists. Another of his notable works, Young Clock Tower, can still be seen in Tokyo’s Ginza district, where his bold, imaginative style continues to captivate viewers.
Myth of Tomorrow depicts the moment of an atomic explosion—a tragic event in human history. Yet, within that terrifying image, Okamoto embedded a powerful message: “Even so, humanity will rise and move forward.” His unwavering belief was that in the wake of destruction, new myths—symbols of hope—are born.
The passage where the mural is displayed is also a popular photo spot for the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing. While capturing that famous scene is certainly worthwhile, you might also consider turning around and standing before Myth of Tomorrow, allowing yourself a moment to reflect on the profound meaning it carries.
3) Denboin Street
Located on the west side of the path leading from Kaminarimon Gate to the main hall of Sensoji Temple, Denboin Street is a charming and unique alley that transports visitors back to the Edo period, nearly 400 years ago. This atmospheric street preserves the aesthetic of old Tokyo, making it a favorite spot for those seeking traditional Japanese vibes.
At night, the street is softly illuminated by warm-toned lights, enhancing its retro appeal and creating a nostalgic, almost time-travel-like atmosphere. The shutters of the shops are adorned with vivid artworks depicting scenes from daily life and landscapes of the Edo period. Some illustrations also reflect the identity or specialty of each store, making each shutter its own piece of art and storytelling.
For visitors interested in exploring Asakusa’s deeper layers, strolling slowly down Denboin Street while admiring the shutter art offers a rare experience—where past and present harmoniously coexist. It's a quiet, evocative journey through the heart of historical Tokyo.
4) Nakano
Under the theme “Mural art that connects people and emotions, engaging in dialogue with everyday life,” numerous murals have been created throughout Nakano Ward. These artworks were designed with the hope that human connection would spark new energy, bringing liveliness and vibrancy to the community. Each piece is thoughtfully integrated into the cityscape, blending art seamlessly into daily urban life.
Nakano is home to several murals scattered across different neighborhoods, making it a great area for a casual art walk. A recommended starting point is the striking mural of a woman located near Nakano Station. Her figure, painted with remarkable detail and expression, radiates both strength and beauty—sure to captivate all who pass by.
5) Tokyo Dome City
Near Suidobashi Station on the Toei Mita Line, within Tokyo Dome City, you’ll find a mural artwork titled “Re-sortir.” The name, in French, means “a place to return to again and again.” As you walk along the side deck of the pathway, you’ll be drawn to the striking sight of three enormous women depicted on the wall beside the waterfront. Dreamlike and highly artistic, this mural captivates with its surreal beauty and creates a memorable visual experience in the heart of the city.
6) Tokiwa-so
Tokiwa-so was a two-story wooden apartment building located in Toshima City, Tokyo, known as the place where some of Japan’s most legendary manga artists—including creators of long-beloved series like Astro Boy and Doraemon—lived during their early careers. Today, the site has been transformed into the Tokiwa-so Manga Museum, open to the public and considered a must-visit destination for manga enthusiasts.
Surrounding the museum are several pieces of public art that add a splash of creativity to the local streetscape. These artworks are colorful and striking, often with a surreal or whimsical quality. The artist behind them reinterprets "ornamentation"—developed through various cultures and historical contexts—through a contemporary lens, creating pieces that blend nostalgia with modern artistic expression.
7) Takanawa Gateway
Takanawa Gateway City was redeveloped under the concept of becoming a testing ground for “a richer life 100 years into the future.” While attractions like the Path of 100 Colors often draw attention, a hidden gem lies just past the grand staircase—a unique mural that explores the history of Takanawa.
This wall art offers glimpses into little-known stories about the area and even includes AR-powered photo spots, providing experiences you can’t find anywhere else. With artwork reminiscent of the Edo period, it’s the perfect place to spark your intellectual curiosity while enjoying a visually engaging and culturally enriching stop.
8) Edo-Tokyo Museum
Currently undergoing large-scale renovations, the Edo-Tokyo Museum is surrounded by a fascinating array of art installations inspired by Japan’s traditional culture—particularly ukiyo-e woodblock prints.
One of the standout exhibits is an installation based on the works of famed ukiyo-e artist Toshusai Sharaku. Sharaku was known for his distinctive style, especially his portrayal of facial expressions with eyes drawn unusually close to the eyebrows to emphasize emotion. In this installation, middle and high school students reinterpret Sharaku’s unique visual language through their own colorful, free-spirited expressions.
The result is a dynamic fusion of traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary youth creativity. It's a space where historic cultural heritage meets modern artistry—offering visitors a fresh perspective on what art can be.
9) Nakameguro
Just a 4-minute walk from Nakameguro Station, you’ll find a mural along Saigoyama Street. This artwork is part of the "Ennoshita-zu" project, which conveys the message: “There are unsung heroes supporting everyone from behind the scenes, even closer than you think.”
The mural stands out with its vibrant colors and charming design. Featuring characters that look like they could be from a video game, it’s the kind of artwork that naturally invites passersby to snap a photo. While enjoying its playful visuals, take a moment to reflect on its deeper meaning as well.
10) Asakusabashi Station
Just one station east of Akihabara lies a quiet area along the Sumida River, full of old-town charm. This neighborhood still preserves its traditional atmosphere, where residents continue to enjoy the culture and art that have long been cherished here.
In front of the station and along the shopping street, shops that support the daily lives of the locals line the streets. On the walls of these shops are beautiful murals. One depicts a woman dressed in vibrant clothing walking down the street, with small children behind her trying to buy something. The scene likely portrays everyday life in a country outside Japan.
Mural art that colors the city offers unexpected encounters you won’t find in museums, as well as an academic aspect that symbolizes the local culture. Take note of the wall art and enjoy exploring Tokyo from a different perspective.
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