Shimane Museum of Art (Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Shimane Art Museum is a prefectural art museum facing Lake Shinji, and its design, which blends in with the landscape, is a major attraction. Since opening in 1999, it has served as a cultural hub for the region, hosting special exhibitions and collection exhibitions across a wide range of genres, including contemporary art, Japanese painting, Western painting, prints, and crafts. The museum offers views of Lake Shinji through its glass facade, and is unique in its exhibits and architectural presentations that make use of the evening scenery and the light reflected on the lake's surface, making the architecture itself worth visiting. The museum is also known for its focus on introducing local artists, promoting education, and promoting exchange programs.
Highlights
- Location and architecture overlooking Lake Shinji: The view from the large glass windows and the walking path near the lake are highlights. The evening view is especially popular.
- Permanent exhibitions and special exhibitions: A diverse collection of Japanese and Western paintings, contemporary art, prints, crafts, and more, as well as regular special exhibitions. Some special exhibitions feature notable artists from Japan and abroad.
- Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition: Sculptures and artworks installed in outdoor spaces and promenades on the premises.
- Museum Cafe/Museum Shop: A cafe where you can relax while looking out at the lake, and a shop selling exhibition catalogs and original goods.
- Events and Workshops: Participatory programs such as gallery talks and workshops for children are held regularly.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
*Please check the latest traffic information and timetables in advance on official websites or with transportation companies.
- Nearest major station: JR Matsue Station (the main station in the center of Matsue city).
- Access example:
- From JR Matsue Station: Take a taxi for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, or take a local bus or city sightseeing bus to the bus stop closest to the museum.
- If you are using Ichibata Railway: Get off at Matsue Shinjiko Onsen Station or other stations and then walk or take the bus.
- By car: Approximately 20 minutes by car from the San'in Expressway Matsue interchange (depending on road conditions). Parking is available on-site or nearby (please check the number of spaces and fees).
- Sightseeing: It is easy to get to by bus or taxi from major tourist spots in Matsue City (Matsue Castle and Horikawa Sightseeing Pier), making it an easy location to incorporate into your sightseeing route.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Permanent exhibition only: Approximately 60 to 90 minutes
- Permanent exhibition + special exhibition/cafe use: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
- Walking around the area (including walking around Lake Shinji and taking photos): You can enjoy the walk at a leisurely pace if you have at least 2-3 hours to spare.
Nearby spots
- Matsue Castle: A historical landmark. You can tour the castle and enjoy the view from the castle tower (accessible by car or bus).
- Horikawa River Pleasure Boat (Horikawa Meguri): A popular tourist activity where you take a boat tour around the castle town's moats.
- Koizumi Yakumo Memorial Museum (Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum): A museum related to the writer with ties to Matsue.
- Shiomi Nawate (historic townscape): A charming street with samurai residences remaining, perfect for a stroll.
- Walking paths and sunset spots along Lake Shinji: The lakeside around the museum is known as a famous spot for watching sunsets.
- If you're looking to venture further afield: Adachi Museum of Art (Yasugi City) is about an hour away by car. It's famous for its gardens and art.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Visitors increase on weekends, holidays, during large-scale exhibitions, and in the evenings around sunset. If you want to take your time viewing the exhibits, we recommend visiting on weekday mornings.
- Photography: There are many areas within the museum where photography is prohibited, so please follow the signs in the exhibition room to see if you can take photos. However, there are usually no problems with taking photos of the exterior of the building or the lake scenery.
- Tickets: Special exhibitions and popular exhibitions may require advance reservations and time-specified tickets. Please check the official website in advance to find out how to purchase tickets.
- Manners: Please observe basic museum etiquette, such as not touching the artwork, turning off your mobile phone, and keeping conversations to a minimum in the exhibition rooms.
- Seasonal notes: In winter, it can be windy and cold, so you need to take measures to protect yourself from the cold. In summer, there are times when the sun is strong, so be sure to bring a hat and stay hydrated.
- Barrier-free access: Most facilities are barrier-free, but it's a good idea to check in advance for detailed support options (wheelchair rentals, nursing rooms, etc.).
Finally, information on exhibitions, opening hours, admission fees, and events is subject to change, so please check the Shimane Museum of Art's official website and social media for the latest updates before your visit.
