Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa is a contemporary art museum located in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, and opened in 2004. The architecture was designed by the world-renowned architectural unit SANAA (Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa), and its distinctive feature is the circular building and the spatial composition that gently connects the interior and exterior. As a public space open to the public, the museum aims to be a "museum that anyone can easily visit," including an outdoor plaza on the premises and exhibition spaces that are free to enter.
The museum's appeal lies in the beauty of its architecture and its well-balanced exhibition program of contemporary art from Japan and abroad. In particular, the permanent and representative works, such as Leandro Erlich's "Swimming Pool," which draw visitors' attention with their visual appeal, are popular with tourists.
Highlights
- Swimming Pool (Leandro Erlich): This exhibit looks like there is water when viewed from above. You can have a different experience by looking down through the glass or by going underground and looking directly below the water surface. It tends to get crowded, so make sure you leave plenty of time.
- The architecture itself: The circular exterior, multiple entrances, transparent glass walls connecting the inside and outside, and courtyard-like spaces make it worth visiting just to see the architecture.
- Permanent and special exhibitionsIn addition to the permanent exhibition of works by contemporary artists from Japan and abroad, the museum also hosts regularly scheduled special exhibitions of high quality with a wide variety of themes (there may be a fee for special exhibitions and specific dates and times may apply).
- Outdoor plaza and community space: There are many spaces that are open to the public for free, and you can see locals and tourists relaxing here. There are also shops and cafes, making it a convenient place to take a break.
- Museum Shop and CafeThere is a shop selling art-related goods and items by local artists, as well as a cafe where you can relax while watching the exhibitions.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
Address: 1-2-1 Hirosaka, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture, 920-8509
Official website: https://www.kanazawa21.jp/
- Train + walking: Approximately 20 minutes (1.5km) on foot from JR Kanazawa Station. It is within walking distance from the base of Hokuriku tourism.
- busFrom Kanazawa Station, take the Hokutetsu Bus bound for Kenrokuenshita or Nagamachi Samurai Residences, or the sightseeing bus (Kenrokuen Shuttle/Kanazawa Loop Bus) to the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art stop. The journey takes approximately 10 minutes.
- taxi: Approximately 10 minutes from Kanazawa Station (depending on traffic conditions).
- car: Paid parking is available in the surrounding area. However, it can get crowded during the tourist season, so we recommend using public transportation.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Free area only/Architectural tour: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Permanent exhibition + swimming pool tour: 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
- If you want to take your time to look around, including the special exhibition: 2 to 3 hours (varies depending on the size of the special exhibition)
Nearby spots
- Kenrokuen Garden and Kanazawa Castle Park: Within walking distance (popular tourist spots where you can enjoy the scenery throughout the seasons).
- Omicho Market (Omicho Market): Enjoy seafood and local delicacies in Kanazawa's kitchen.
- Nagamachi Samurai Residence Site, Higashi Chaya District: Recommended for strolling through the townscape that retains the atmosphere of the Edo period.
- Cafes and galleries near the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa: Great places to stop by before or after visiting the museum.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: The "Swimming Pool" is particularly popular, and there may be queues or restrictions on admission during holidays, tourist seasons, and weekends. Special exhibitions often require tickets with designated dates and times, so we recommend purchasing tickets in advance.
- Admission fee: There are zones that are free to enter and special exhibition zones that require admission fees, so please check the exhibition contents and fees on the official website in advance.
- Photography and photography etiquette: Photography is often permitted in free areas, but photography and flash photography are prohibited in special exhibitions and some artworks. Please observe general museum etiquette, such as not touching artworks or running.
- Opening hours and closing days: Generally, the museum opens around 10:00 (closing times may vary depending on the exhibition). It is closed on Mondays (but may be subject to change if it is a public holiday) and over the New Year holidays, so please check the official website for the latest information before visiting.
- Barrier-freeWheelchairs are permitted, but it is best to inquire in advance about the specific facilities (accessible toilets, wheelchair rentals, etc.).
- Seasonal precautionsIn winter, Kanazawa city can get quite cold, so please take precautions against the cold. In summer, tourist spots tend to get crowded, so we recommend arriving early.
Before visiting, be sure to check the official website for the latest opening hours, exhibits, and ticket sales information. Combine your visit with other attractions in Kanazawa to make the most of your day.
