The colorful polka dots and bold shapes are full of the artist's distinctive style, making this one of Matsumoto's most iconic photo spots. Yayoi Kusama was born in Matsumoto, and the museum houses many of her works, from her early creations to her classic series, offering a more complete experience of her artistic world.
Matsumoto City Museum of Art | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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JR EAST PASS (Nagano, Niigata area)
This unlimited ride pass is a great buy for tourists visiting Japan and foreign residents without Japanese nationality. Once in hand take up 5 days of unlimited travels across a number of differing routes including bullet train rides on the Joetsu Shinkansen, specified sections of the Hokuriku and Tohoku Shinkansen, or hop on JR East lines, the entire Tokyo Monorail line, the entire Izu Kyuko line, and the Hokuetsu Express lines running in Niigata.
In winter, I used the “JR East Pass (Nagano, Niigata area)” to explore the region by Shinkansen. The endless, pure white snowy scenery along the way was breathtaking. My most vivid memory is of the beautiful snow country scenery from the train, as well as someone standing quietly with their dog and watching the train pass by, creating a heartwarming winter scene.
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MIDORI Nagano
A station-building shopping center directly connected to Nagano Station, the gateway to Nagano where the shinkansen stops. From the basement level to the 5th floor, it brings together shops for everyday needs, including fashion, books, variety goods, groceries, and services.
Directly connected to JR Nagano Station, MIDORI Nagano is a top destination for shopping for Shinshu souvenirs and enjoying local cuisine! The shopping center offers a wide variety of Nagano specialties, from aromatic Shinshu soba and oyaki with a chewy exterior to sweets made with Kamikochi Kyoho grapes and apples. The Shinshu souvenir section on the second floor is well stocked and fun to browse. It’s convenient to stop by before transferring to the Shinkansen or Shinano Railway, and you can take the delicious flavors of Nagano home with you!
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Karuizawa New Art Museum
The museum opened in 2012 after renovating a former commercial building. The all-glass exterior of the building, designed with white pillars reminiscent of a larch forest, was designed by architect Rikuo Nishimori.
While strolling along the Old Karuizawa shopping street, it’s hard not to be drawn to the modern larch forest-inspired design and glass building. This museum focuses on Japanese contemporary art and avant-garde works, with spacious exhibition areas and beautiful use of light and shadow. In addition to its wide range of special art exhibitions, the White Birch Chapel designed by Kengo Kuma is a classic work that blends nature with architectural philosophy. When you need a break from walking, you can also enjoy the elegant atmosphere at the on-site café. Highly recommended for travelers who love aesthetics and modern art!
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