Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum

This museum preserves the former home and studio of Taro Okamoto, one of Japan’s most provocative and influential artists, who lived and worked here for 42 years until his death in 1996 at the age of 84. Just two years after his passing, his lifelong partner Toshiko Okamoto opened the museum to share his spirit and legacy with future generations.
The original residence, designed by renowned modernist architect Junzo Sakakura, has been preserved, while the adjacent wooden annex—once his study and sculpture atelier—has been rebuilt as a modern exhibition wing.

Inside the studio, paint splatters still cover the floor, tools lie scattered on worktables, and unfinished canvases rest on shelves—everything remains just as it was, giving visitors an almost surreal sense that Okamoto himself might walk in at any moment.
The garden outside reflects his artistic philosophy, with his sculptures seemingly tossed among the overgrown greenery in a spontaneous harmony of art and nature. This raw and vibrant setting vividly expresses Okamoto's belief in fusing creativity with life itself.

Upstairs, rotating exhibitions are held year-round, each exploring new themes and perspectives. The museum shop—open to the public without admission—offers over 100 books related to Okamoto along with a variety of colorful, original goods, making it a favorite stop even for casual visitors.