[1] The museum is concentrated on arts and cultures of various ethnic groups that inhabit Indonesian archipelago and formed the modern nation of Indonesia.

[2] The museum was designed as the integral part of the whole Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) complex.

Some large Paduraksa and Candi Bentar (split portal) style Balinese gates, as well as several corner towers adorn the complex.

The main building consists of three floors in accordance with Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, the concept that emphasizes the three aspects of a human's complete happiness; to nurture harmony with God, with fellow human beings, and with nature.

The exhibit also displays Indonesian artforms, such as various types of dances, wayang and gamelan, also the painted glass map of Indonesia.

[1] Sometimes the museum also displays non-permanent or temporary exhibitions with specific themes, such as topeng (traditional mask), traditional textiles, weapons, paintings, also art and craft demonstrations; such as batik or wayang kulit making.