Musée Cernuschi: this free Asian museum near Parc Monceau houses one of Europe’s largest Buddha statues.

Paris abounds in hidden treasures forart and culture lovers. Among them, a free Asian museum offers a fascinating immersion in Eastern civilizations. In 2026, this little-known place deserves your undivided attention.

The Musée Cernuschi: a little-known jewel in the heart of Paris

Located a stone’s throw from the Parc Monceau, the Musée Cernuschi is one ofEurope’s finest free Asian museums. Visitors can admire almost 15,000 works of art without paying a cent. This intimate venue has a soothing atmosphere and remarkable collections.

Henri Cernuschi, a banker and passionate collector, founded this museum in the 19th century. As a result, the exhibits reflect his love of East Asia. The building itself is well worth a visit, with its elegant architecture.

Lovers ofJapanese art will be delighted by the prints and period objects on display. What’s more, to prolong this artistic experience at home, theHokusai Stole – The Great Wave (€69) allows you to proudly display one of the most famous works of Japanese art. This delicate scarf captures all the power of this iconic image.

“The Musée Cernuschi offers a journey through five millennia of Asian artistic creation.

Exceptionally rich permanent collections

Antique Chinese bronzes form the core of the museum’s collections. Some of these rare pieces date back over 3,000 years. Their state of preservation is astonishing for such ancient objects.

Chinese ceramics also occupy a central place in this free Asian museum. On the other hand, painting enthusiasts will find fine Japanese scrolls and screens. Each room has its own surprises in store for curious visitors.

The monumental Japanese Buddha impresses as soon as you enter the museum. This 18th-century bronze statue is over four meters high. It now greets visitors like a benevolent guardian.

• Chinese ritual bronzes from the Shang dynasty
• Funerary ceramics from the Tang period
• Japanese ukiyo-e prints
• Ink paintings on silk
• Ancient Buddhist sculptures

Preparing your visit to the Musée Cernuschi in 2026

The museum is located at 7, avenue Vélasquez in the 8th arrondissement of Paris. The nearest metro stations are Villiers and Monceau. The area also offers many pleasant walks after your visit.

Opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm. Mondays are closed to the public. We advise you to come in the morning to enjoy the peace and quiet.

This free Asian museum offers temporary exhibitions throughout 2026. These events enable visitors to renew their experience on a regular basis. The themes range from contemporary art to historical pieces.

For enthusiasts looking for an elegant souvenir to take home, the Sous la grande vague bangle bracelet (€55) is a refined choice. This delicate jewel pays tribute to Japanese art while remaining discreet for everyday wear.

A cultural experience accessible to all

Free access to the permanent collections makes this venue accessible to as many people as possible. Families, students and retired people can enjoy a cultural moment without financial constraints. This policy of free access encourages the discovery of Asian art.

Audioguides are available to enhance your visit to the free Asian Museum. In short, these tools help visitors understand the historical context of each work. There are also age-appropriate tours for children.

Why visit this Parisian treasure in 2026

The Musée Cernuschi offers a Zen interlude in the midst of the hustle and bustle of Paris. The rooms are never crowded, allowing for serene contemplation of the works. This calm contrasts with the often overcrowded atmosphere of larger museums.

The proximity of Parc Monceau adds to the charm of this cultural outing. You can combine a visit with a stroll through one of the capital’s most beautiful gardens. Families particularly appreciate this combination.

This free Asian museum represents a little-known alternative to the more famous institutions. What’s more, the quality of the works on display rivals that of the world’s greatest Oriental art museums. A visit is a must for any art lover in 2026.

Temporary exhibitions in 2026 promise exciting discoveries. The museum continues to enrich its collections and offer a variety of cultural events. Every visit reveals new treasures to admire.

• Asian museum free