[Suntory Museum of Art (Minato-ku, Tokyo)]
■ Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Suntory Museum of Art is a corporate art museum that makes art pieces from Suntory's collection available to the public, and it houses and exhibits a variety of Japanese crafts, tea ceremony utensils, paintings, calligraphy, lacquerware, and more. For many years, the museum has focused on the concept of "beauty in everyday life," and is characterized by its exhibitions that are tailored to the seasons and occasions. Since moving to Tokyo Midtown (Roppongi, Minato Ward), the museum has seen an increase in visitors due to its convenient access and its connection to the complex, and its planned exhibitions range from traditional crafts to modern and contemporary art. The museum also boasts a museum shop, tea room, and cafe, making it an attractive place to stay, where you can not only view the artworks but also shop and relax.
■ Highlights
- Highlights of the collection: Masterpieces of tea ceremony utensils (tea bowls, kettles, tea boxes, etc.), ceramics, lacquerware, dyed and woven textiles, paintings, and calligraphy are exhibited under seasonal themes. Many of the exhibits delve into the aesthetic sense that resides in everyday items.
- Special exhibitions: Special and themed exhibitions are held regularly, some featuring artisans and artists. The exhibits change frequently, so no matter how many times you visit, the experience will always be fresh.
- Tea room and cafe: There is a place within the building where you can experience the spirit of the tea ceremony, and seasonal Japanese sweets and matcha green tea may be served (this depends on the plan).
- Museum Shop: A wide range of original goods, exhibition catalogs, Japanese items, and more are available, making it a convenient place to find souvenirs.
- Ingenious exhibition space: Lighting, display cases, and changing exhibits bring out the texture of the crafts.
■ Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
– Address: Tokyo Midtown, Minato-ku (please check the official website for detailed floor and address information).
– Nearest station:
- Approximately 3-7 minutes walk from Roppongi Station on the Toei Oedo Line and Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line (varies depending on entrance/exit).
- Approximately 7-10 minutes walk from Roppongi-itchome Station on the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line.
- Bus/Car: There is a metropolitan bus route. There is an underground parking lot (paid) at Tokyo Midtown. The surrounding roads tend to be congested on weekends, so we recommend using public transportation.
– Note: The entrance and floors are located within a complex, so please follow the facility guide to get there.
■ Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- If you want to take your time to see the permanent collection and the special exhibition: about 1.5 to 2 hours.
– If you want to quickly view only the special exhibitions: 60 to 90 minutes.
– If you plan to visit the cafe and museum shop, you should allow an additional 30 to 60 minutes.
■ Nearby spots
– Tokyo Midtown (shops, restaurants, gardens, event venues)
– Suntory Hall (Classical Concert)
– Roppongi Hills (Mori Art Museum, observation deck, shops)
– The National Art Center, Tokyo (many special exhibitions) and The National Art Center, Tokyo/Nogizaka area (walk or one station away)
– 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT (design and exhibition facility, nearby)
– Nearby cafes, restaurants and shopping areas (inside and outside Midtown)
■ Things to be aware of (crowding, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets very crowded on weekends, public holidays, the final days of exhibitions, and during popular special exhibitions. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, and tickets are sometimes sold online or with specified dates and times, so we recommend checking and purchasing tickets in advance on the official website.
- Photography: Whether photography is permitted inside the museum varies depending on the exhibit. Many exhibits prohibit photography, so be sure to follow the instructions of the staff and signs at the entrance. Flash and tripods are prohibited as a general rule.
- Manners: Please do not touch the exhibits, keep your cell phone on silent mode, and be considerate of other visitors (refrain from talking loudly). Eating and drinking is only permitted in designated areas.
- Luggage: Please use the coin lockers or cloakroom (check the information desk in the building to see if there is a fee or if it is free) for large luggage or umbrellas.
- Seasonal notes: In summer, the air conditioning can be strong when you come inside the building from outside, so it's convenient to bring a light jacket. In winter, the area will be crowded with people due to illuminations and events outside the building. In case of pollen or rain, bring an umbrella or some cold weather gear.
- Traveling with children/wheelchair users: Please check the facility's guide for information on stroller access and barrier-free access. Many complexes have elevators and barrier-free facilities, but you may need to be careful when moving around the exhibition rooms.
Lastly, please note that the exhibition contents, opening hours, closing days, admission fees, etc. are frequently updated. Please be sure to check the latest information (tickets, special exhibitions, special opening days) on the official website before your visit. Have a nice time!
