The National Museum of Western Art
The National Museum of Western Art is the only national museum in Japan dedicated to Western art, located within Ueno Park in Tokyo. It opened in 1959 and was designed by the renowned architect Le Corbusier. The building itself was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016 under the title "The Architectural Work of Le Corbusier, an Outstanding Contribution to the Modern Movement."
At the core of its exhibits is the "Matsukata Collection," donated by the French government. This collection comprises artworks primarily from the Impressionist period and sculptures by Rodin, collected by Kojiro Matsukata, the former president of Kawasaki Shipbuilding, during his travels in Europe. Works by renowned Western artists such as Renoir and Picasso are prominently displayed.
The museum engages in various activities, including exhibition projects, the collection and research of materials related to Western art, conservation and restoration, educational outreach, and the publication of materials. Approximately three special exhibitions are held each year, often in collaboration with overseas museums to introduce a diverse range of Western art to Japan.
With its rich history and multifaceted activities, the museum attracts numerous tourists and researchers from both domestic and international backgrounds. Notably, in April 2022, the museum's front yard was renovated, taking a new step to help more people understand Western art and its cultural context.
The National Museum of Western Art is not only a significant site for its artworks but also for its architecture, making it a precious art destination in Japan where culture and history intricately intersect.
At the core of its exhibits is the "Matsukata Collection," donated by the French government. This collection comprises artworks primarily from the Impressionist period and sculptures by Rodin, collected by Kojiro Matsukata, the former president of Kawasaki Shipbuilding, during his travels in Europe. Works by renowned Western artists such as Renoir and Picasso are prominently displayed.
The museum engages in various activities, including exhibition projects, the collection and research of materials related to Western art, conservation and restoration, educational outreach, and the publication of materials. Approximately three special exhibitions are held each year, often in collaboration with overseas museums to introduce a diverse range of Western art to Japan.
With its rich history and multifaceted activities, the museum attracts numerous tourists and researchers from both domestic and international backgrounds. Notably, in April 2022, the museum's front yard was renovated, taking a new step to help more people understand Western art and its cultural context.
The National Museum of Western Art is not only a significant site for its artworks but also for its architecture, making it a precious art destination in Japan where culture and history intricately intersect.
Basic Information
- Spot Name
- The National Museum of Western Art
- Location
- 〒110-0007 7-7 Ueno Park, Taito City, Tokyo, Japan
- Access
- Get off at JR Ueno Station (Park Exit) and walk for 1 minute.
Get off at Keisei Electric Railway Keisei Ueno Station and walk for 7 minutes.
Get off at Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Hibiya Line Ueno Station and walk for 8 minutes. - Parking
- There is no parking available at the museum. Due to the limited number of parking spaces in the surrounding area, please use public transportation when visiting.
- Business Hours
- 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday and Saturday 9:30 AM - 8:00 PM
* Entry is allowed until 30 minutes before closing. - Regular Holiday
- Closed every Monday. However, if Monday is a holiday or a substitute holiday, the facility will be open and closed on the following weekday. Closed for the New Year holidays (December 28 to January 1). Additionally, the facility may open or close temporarily.
- Fees
- General: 500 yen
University students: 250 yen - Contact Information
- Phone Number：050-5541-8600
- Official Website
