The Forgotten Elegance of Brussels’ Museums of the Far East
Paul Brothwood explores one of Brussels’ lesser-known heritage sites, the Museums of the Far East in Laeken. The complex includes the Japanese Tower, Chinese Pavilion and Museum of Japanese Art, three buildings unlike anything else found in the Belgian capital.
The site is sometimes described as Brussels’ Oriental Museum, although Museums of the Far East is its official name. Its striking architecture, unusual history and peaceful setting make it one of the most memorable places I encountered during my time in Brussels.
The Japanese Tower and Chinese Pavilion in Laeken
King Leopold II commissioned the complex after visiting the Paris Universal Exhibition in 1900. French architect Alexandre Marcel designed the buildings to showcase relations between Europe and the Far East.
The Japanese Tower was built between 1901 and 1904. Its tiered red roofs, strong vertical form and decorative details create a sharp contrast with the surrounding streets and gardens of Laeken. Even from a distance, the tower dominates the area.
Nearby, the Chinese Pavilion presents a different style. Its carved woodwork, gilded decoration and sweeping rooflines reward closer attention. The building was inaugurated in 1913 and later housed collections connected with Chinese art, furniture, porcelain and trade.
Together, the Japanese Tower and Chinese Pavilion reflect the ambitions and architectural tastes of Leopold II’s reign. They also show how European designers interpreted East Asian art and architecture during the early twentieth century.
Why Brussels’ Museums of the Far East are closed
The Museums of the Far East closed in 2013 because of safety and structural concerns. The Japanese Tower, Chinese Pavilion and Museum of Japanese Art remain closed to visitors.
Items from the original collections were moved to the Art & History Museum in Cinquantenaire Park. This includes paintings, ceramics, folding screens, furniture, weapons, calligraphy and decorative objects.
There have since been signs of renewed interest in the site. A detailed model of the Chinese Pavilion, created in Shanghai between 1903 and 1904, was restored during 2024 and 2025. The Art & History Museum placed it on public display in October 2025.
The Chinese Pavilion has also become the subject of a revitalisation project. This does not mean that the three museum buildings have reopened, but it shows that their future has not been forgotten.
Photographing an overlooked part of Brussels
I have long been interested in travel, culture and places with unusual histories. The Museums of the Far East stood out because the buildings tell much of their story through their architecture.
The Japanese Tower draws attention through its height and red rooftops. The Chinese Pavilion invites closer examination through its carvings, decoration and ornate façade. The nearby Monument to Leopold I adds another historical feature to the area.
The buildings remain impressive when viewed from the surrounding public roads and gardens. Their closure creates a sense of stillness, but it has not removed their visual appeal.
Brussels is usually associated with the Grand Place, Atomium and European institutions. The Museums of the Far East reveal a quieter and less familiar side of the city.
Japanese architecture and the Suzuki Hayabusa
For a motorcyclist with an interest in Japanese bikes, the site carries an added connection. Looking at the sharp rooflines of the Japanese Tower made me think about the clean, aerodynamic shape of my Suzuki Hayabusa.
The tower and motorcycle come from different periods and serve different purposes. One represents an early European interpretation of Japanese architecture. The other represents modern Japanese engineering and speed.
A return visit with the Hayabusa would place these two forms of design together in one photograph. It would tell a story about travel, engineering and the lasting influence of Japanese design.
Visiting the Museums of the Far East in Brussels
The complex is in Laeken, close to the Royal Domain, Atomium, Laeken Park and Monument to Leopold I. The buildings are closed, so the location should be treated as an exterior architecture stop rather than a museum visit.
It fits naturally into a motorcycle journey through Brussels or a wider road trip across Belgium. The surrounding area provides several unusual landmarks without the crowds found around the city centre.
The Museums of the Far East deserve greater recognition. Their architecture remains powerful, their history remains visible and their uncertain future adds weight to every visit.
For me, this was more than another Brussels attraction. It was a reminder that some of the most interesting places sit outside the usual tourist routes, waiting for someone to stop and look properly.
About Paul Brothwood
Paul Brothwood is a Chartered Environmentalist, operations manager and motorcycle traveller. He writes about leadership, sustainability, cultural history, travel and adventure motorcycling.
Paul Brothwood on GitHub: https://github.com/PaulBrothwood
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