TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Yokohama Museum of Art is a major modern and contemporary art museum located in the heart of the Minato Mirai 21 district. Opened in 1989, the museum's architecture was designed by the world-renowned Kenzo Tange and features a large atrium and spacious exhibition spaces. The museum's wide-ranging collection includes Western and Japanese paintings, sculptures, photography, prints, and design from the 20th century onwards. The museum actively hosts permanent exhibitions that systematically introduce modern and contemporary art from Japan and abroad, as well as topical special exhibitions. It also actively hosts educational outreach activities, workshops, and lectures, making it a popular destination for a wide range of people, from families to art lovers.
Highlights
- Permanent Collection: Exhibits that provide an overview of eras and styles include modern Japanese paintings, modern and contemporary works from overseas, prints, and photographs. Depending on the theme, special exhibitions will delve deeper.
- Special Exhibitions: Large-scale traveling exhibitions from Japan and overseas, solo exhibitions by contemporary artists, and other exhibitions that attract attention are always held. The exhibitions are characterized by their large scale and richness.
- Architecture and interior space: The exhibition space, with its atrium and void, designed by Kenzo Tange, is photogenic, and the architecture itself is a highlight.
- Sculptures and outdoor exhibits: Depending on the season and projects, sculptures and installations may be placed outdoors or in the lobby of the museum.
- Museum Shop/Café: A wide selection of exhibition catalogues and art goods. The café is also popular as a place to take a break.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Address: Minatomirai, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture (Please check the official website for detailed address information)
- Nearest station:
- Approximately 3-5 minutes on foot from Minatomirai Station on the Minatomirai Line (nearly direct access via an underground passage from the ticket gate)
- Approximately 10-15 minutes on foot from JR or Yokohama Municipal Subway Sakuragicho Station, or accessible by bus or on foot
- By car: There are paid parking lots in the area (Landmark Plaza, etc.). However, it can get crowded on weekends and during events, so we recommend using public transportation.
- Bus/Taxi: A few minutes by taxi from Yokohama Station or Sakuragicho Station. There are also tourist bus routes in the area.
- Note: Traffic in the surrounding area can be congested during special exhibitions and large events. Please check the museum's official website for opening hours, closing days, and access information before visiting.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Permanent exhibition only: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Permanent exhibition + special exhibition (standard size): Approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours
- Enjoy the exhibits thoroughly + shop/café use: 2-3 hours
- Participation in educational programs or workshops may take longer.
Nearby spots
- Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of History (walking distance to the Red Brick Warehouse)
- Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse (shopping and event venue)
- Cup Noodles Museum (Minato Mirai area)
- Cosmo World (famous for its Ferris wheel)
- Landmark Tower Sky Garden (observation deck)
- Commercial and cultural facilities such as Queen's Square and Pacifico Yokohama near the Yokohama Museum of Art
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: There are many visitors on weekends, national holidays, long weekends, and the first and last days of special exhibitions, so you may have to wait to get in. Weekday mornings are relatively quiet.
- Photography: Photography is often prohibited inside the museum (exhibition rooms). Whether photography is permitted or not varies depending on the exhibit, so please follow the signs at the entrance to the exhibition room and the instructions of the staff.
- Food and drink: Eating and drinking are prohibited inside the exhibition rooms. Please take breaks in the cafe or lobby.
- Clothing and belongings: For larger luggage, you can leave it in the coat storage or lockers (including at nearby stations) to make viewing more comfortable. Tripods and monopods are generally not permitted.
- Barrier-free: Wheelchair access and accessibility facilities are available, but please check in advance for details on usage and rental.
- Closing days and opening hours: The museum is usually closed on Mondays (but is often open on public holidays and closed the following day) and during the New Year holidays. Opening hours and admission fees for special exhibitions may change, so please check the official website for the latest information.
- Seasonal notes: The number of tourists in the area increases during the winter illuminations and spring cherry blossom viewing season. In hot weather, take measures to protect yourself from the heat by moving outdoors. On rainy days, the grounds will be crowded, so please allow yourself plenty of time.
