This museum presents somber displays about the 1923 earthquake that shattered more than 70 per cent of the town and killed more than 50,000 people. Maps graph the route of the destructive fires while cases exhibit tools, glassware, binoculars, eyeglasses, and other items convoluted by heat. There is also a disturbing collection of photographs and paintings of the consequences.

The museum has been generalized to cover other tragedies to strike Tokyo region, including World War II air raids and the volcanic explosion on one of the region's southern islands.

The museum is located on Yokoami Park, with other commemorative structures and a garden devoted to quake victims. An enjoyable walk connects the park and the Ryōgoku Kokugikan through the previous Yasuda garden. Admission is free. It was once the spot of the Edo residence of a lord.