Although it's called a Calligraphy museum, the collection here focuses mainly on the early history of the Chinese (and later Japanese) written language through its use in inscriptions on ancient Chinese jade, bronze and ceramic objects. There are also a large number of stone funerary slabs (stela), some dating back 2,000 years.

Not all the exhibits have English-language labels, but an English-language audio guide can be rented for Y200. Between the older main building and newer entrance area is a pleasant garden area.