Besides its regular temporary exhibitions, the Watari-um Museum of Contemporary Art also has a permanent collection featuring works by both Japanese and international artists. The variety of art on display is fantastic—definitely a must-visit for anyone who loves the art world.
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Watari Museum of Contemporary Art
A private museum hosting diverse exhibitions with a primary focus on contemporary art.
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Opened in September 1990, this private museum was designed by the renowned Swiss architect Mario Botta—his only architectural project in Japan. The striking exterior, characterized by wide, wing-like forms and distinctively striped walls of granite and concrete, has become an iconic local landmark.
The museum currently hosts three to four exhibitions each year, covering a wide array of genres including contemporary art, architecture, photography, video, and design, featuring both Japanese and international artists. It also actively promotes young Japanese artists, organizing diverse events aimed at deepening visitors' understanding and appreciation of exhibitions. Lectures, workshops, and other interactive programs encourage visitors to engage more closely with art.
Additionally, the museum houses a specialty bookstore offering a wide selection of art-related books and publications.
Highlights
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A private museum opened in 1990.
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Serves as a local landmark with a distinctive wing-like design and uniquely striped exterior walls.
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Hosts 3–4 diverse exhibitions per year, focusing primarily on contemporary art from Japan and abroad.
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Offers events related to exhibitions, including lectures and interactive workshops.
Photos
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A museum showcasing a wide range of domestic and international art from a global perspective.
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
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English is available.
Q
Are coin lockers available?
A
Not available.
Q
Is it possible to re-enter the premises?
A
Varies depending on each exhibition.
Reviews
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Inside the museum, curators focus on 21st-century artists and organize different exhibitions each season.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- ワタリウム美術館
- Postal Code
- 150-0001
- Address
- 3-7-6 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
- Telephone
- 03-3402-3001
- Closed
- Mondays
- Business Hours
- 11:00am - 7:00pm
- Admission
- Varies depending on each exhibition
- Access
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1）About 7 minutes walk from Exit 3 of Gaiemmae Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
2）About 9 minutes walk from the A2 exit of the Omotesando Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Hanzomon Line and Chiyoda Line
3）About 13 minutes walk from Exit 5 of Meiji-jingumae 'Harajuku' Station on the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin and Chiyoda Lines
4）About 14 minutes walk from Takeshita Exit of JR Harajuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line - Credit Cards
- Accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)