The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo, Tokyo - a building with a tree in front
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The National Museum of Modern Art Tokyo

4.3
·7k reviews·Chiyoda City, Japan

Explore centuries of Japanese art, from Meiji-era masterpieces to cutting-edge contemporary works, in a stunning modern setting.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Friday evenings

Fewer crowds, extended hours

CrowdLow
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The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo, Tokyo - a building with a tree in front

The National Museum of Modern Art Tokyo

Best Time

Friday evenings

Fewer crowds, extended hours

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore centuries of Japanese art, from Meiji-era masterpieces to cutting-edge contemporary works, in a stunning modern setting.

4.3
(7k reviews)

"A must-visit for art lovers, showcasing the dynamic evolution of Japanese creativity."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Buy Tickets On Arrival

Skip online booking hassles; walk-up tickets are usually available with minimal wait.

📱 Download the Museum App

Enhance your visit with Bluetooth info on exhibits and areas.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Meiji Period Masterpieces

Meiji Period Masterpieces

Permanent Collection

Explore the evolution of Japanese art from the 1868 Meiji Restoration to the present day.

Avant-Garde Japanese Art

Avant-Garde Japanese Art

Special Exhibitions

Discover bold and innovative works by influential Japanese artists like Yamada Masaaki.

Abstract Explorations

Abstract Explorations

Permanent Collection

Admire the striking geometric forms and bold lines in works by artists like Saito Yoshishige.

Planning Your Visit

Tickets & Entry: Skip the Online Hassle

While online ticketing is an option, many visitors report no issues purchasing same-day tickets upon arrival. This avoids potential complications with Japanese phone numbers for online bookings. Be prepared for potential short waits, especially on weekends.

Navigating the Collections

The National Museum of Modern Art Tokyo (MOMAT) houses a vast collection of Japanese art from the Meiji period onwards. To make the most of your visit, consider downloading the museum's app for Bluetooth-enabled information and focus on exhibits that pique your interest, as seeing everything might take half a day.

Best Times

When
Friday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, extended hours
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter galleries, relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Good for rainy days
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

FREE things to do in Tokyo❤️ Visit the National Art Center, Tokyo located in Nogizaka. It’s an ever-changing exhibition, offering a variety of art. Did you know about this free museum in Tokyo? #trave...
@feolazz
30.8K likes • 331.6K views

🎟️ Buy Tickets On Arrival

Skip online booking hassles; walk-up tickets are usually available with minimal wait. Reddit

📱 Download the Museum App

Enhance your visit with Bluetooth info on exhibits and areas. Reddit

National Stripes - (Left) Lee Ufan (B. 1936) From Line 1977 - (Right) Saito Yoshishige Dissymmetry Square No. 1, No. 2 1976 - #art #contemporaryart #artoftheday #artdaily #dailyart #artsy #arttrip #ar...
hoctavius
165 likes • 0 views
Layers of Happiness - Yamada Masaaki (1930-2010) Work C.O6 1960 - #art #contemporaryart #japaneseart #avantgardeasia #yamadamasaaki #masaakiyamada #abstractart #abstract #abstraction #lines #stripes #...
hoctavius
151 likes • 0 views

🚶‍♀️ Focus on Highlights

See what interests you most; you don't need to see every exhibit. Reddit

🖼️ Explore Diverse Art Forms

From traditional paintings to modern installations, there's something for everyone. Reddit

愛•本是泡沫 - @gem0816 - Ei-Q (Sugita Hideo, 1911-1960) Dawn 1957 - #art #contemporaryart #bubble #love #dawn #stars #ei-q #eiq #sugitahideo #hideosugita #instaart #instaartist #instamuseum #artsy #artwork...
hoctavius
128 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Buy Tickets On Arrival

Skip online booking hassles; walk-up tickets are usually available with minimal wait. Reddit

📱 Download the Museum App

Enhance your visit with Bluetooth info on exhibits and areas. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Focus on Highlights

See what interests you most; you don't need to see every exhibit. Reddit

🖼️ Explore Diverse Art Forms

From traditional paintings to modern installations, there's something for everyone. Reddit

☕ Relax at the Cafe

Enjoy a break with a view at the museum's restaurant. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise The National Museum of Modern Art Tokyo for its comprehensive collection of Japanese art from the Meiji period onwards and its engaging special exhibitions. The museum's modern architecture and convenient location are also frequently highlighted. Some visitors note that seeing the entire collection can be time-consuming, and photography restrictions in special exhibitions can be a minor drawback.

"The exhibitions were thoughtfully arranged and showcased a wide range of Japanese modern and contemporary art. It gave me a deeper appreciation for the evolution of art in Japan. The museum is spacious, quiet, and very well maintained."

Linda

"An eye-opening experience to witness history from the world of art, with a nice selection of gifts from the souvenir shop too. A nice place to reflect upon history and one self through art in tranquility."

Dylan Danny

"Absolutely lovely (and big!) museum with a wide variety of exhibitions. The shop stocked some delightful items. Would highly recommend. You can get a coffee in the cute truck outside. Thank you!"

Josefine Danielsson

What People Like

Extensive Japanese art collection
Engaging special exhibitions
Modern architecture

What People Dislike

Photography restrictions
Can be time-consuming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is easily accessible via public transport. Take the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line to Nogizaka Station (Exit 5) or the Chiyoda, Tozai, or Hanzomon Line to Otemachi Station (Exit C2). It's also a short walk from JR Yotsuya Station. TikTok

While there isn't dedicated visitor parking, several public parking lots are available in the vicinity. It's generally recommended to use public transportation due to convenience and potential parking costs. Instagram

Yes, taxis are a convenient option. Simply provide the driver with the museum's name in Japanese (東京国立近代美術館) or its address. Instagram

MOMAT is located in the Roppongi area, close to other cultural institutions like the National Art Center, Tokyo, and the Mori Art Museum, making it easy to plan a day of art exploration. TikTok

From Shinjuku Station, take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Otemachi Station, then transfer to the Chiyoda Line towards Yoyogi-Uehara and alight at Nogizaka Station. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While advance online booking is an option, many visitors successfully purchase same-day tickets at the museum's entrance. This can be a simpler approach, especially if you encounter issues with Japanese phone numbers for online purchases. Reddit

Admission fees vary depending on the exhibition. General admission for the permanent collection is typically around 500-600 JPY, while special exhibitions may cost more. Check the official website for current pricing. Reddit

The museum does not typically offer free admission days. However, some special events or collaborations might have unique entry conditions. It's best to check their official announcements. TikTok

The museum is generally open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last admission at 4:30 PM. On Fridays, it often stays open until 8:00 PM. Always verify current hours on their website before your visit. Reddit

The Japan Rail Pass is for train travel and does not cover admission to museums or attractions. You will need to purchase separate tickets for MOMAT. Reddit

🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience

MOMAT primarily showcases Japanese art created since the Meiji period (1868). This includes paintings, sculptures, prints, photography, and contemporary installations, reflecting the nation's artistic evolution. Instagram+2

Yes, the museum offers a variety of exhibits that can engage children. The app's Bluetooth tracker can provide interactive information, and some special exhibitions might have family-friendly elements. Reddit

While official English guided tours might be limited, the museum often provides English audio guides for its permanent collection and major exhibitions. Check at the information desk upon arrival. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted in the permanent collection galleries for personal use, but without flash. However, special exhibitions often have restrictions, so always look for signage. Instagram

A visit to the permanent collection can take 1-2 hours. If you plan to explore special exhibitions thoroughly, you might spend 3-4 hours or even half a day. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, MOMAT has a restaurant and a cafe offering various food and beverage options. It's a convenient place to take a break and enjoy a meal or a snack during your visit. Reddit

The cafe typically offers light meals, snacks, and beverages. The restaurant might provide a more substantial dining experience, often with views of the surrounding area. Reddit

The Nogizaka and Roppongi areas surrounding the museum are filled with diverse dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets. Instagram

Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the museum galleries. It's best to consume your own food in designated areas outside the exhibition spaces or at the museum's cafe/restaurant. Reddit

Absolutely. The museum cafe is ideal for a quick coffee or tea break while you're exploring the art collections. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is usually allowed in the permanent collection galleries, but without flash. Special exhibitions often have stricter rules, so always check for signage. Instagram

Tripods and selfie sticks are generally not permitted inside the museum to ensure the safety of artworks and the comfort of other visitors. Instagram

The architecture of the museum itself can be quite photogenic. Look for interesting angles in the galleries, especially where natural light plays a role. Some artworks also lend themselves to striking compositions. Instagram+1

Yes, the exterior of The National Museum of Modern Art Tokyo is generally fine for photography. It's a modern building that can make for interesting shots. Instagram

While specific popular artworks can change with exhibitions, look for pieces with strong visual elements, unique textures, or vibrant colors that stand out. Instagram+2

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The National Museum of Modern Art Tokyo can be an engaging outing for families. While the art might be abstract, the museum's app offers interactive features that can make the experience more fun for younger visitors. Look out for special exhibitions that might have more visually stimulating or narrative-driven pieces. Reddit

Consider focusing on specific sections or artworks that are particularly colorful or have interesting shapes. The museum's cafe also provides a good spot for a break, allowing kids to refuel before or after exploring the galleries. Planning a shorter visit, perhaps focusing on the permanent collection, can be more manageable for children. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts on a Budget

MOMAT offers excellent value for art lovers. The admission fee for the permanent collection is quite reasonable, making it an accessible cultural experience in Tokyo. Reddit

To maximize your budget, consider visiting on a Friday evening when the museum is open later, potentially allowing you to combine it with other evening activities. Also, take advantage of the museum's cafe for a more affordable meal or snack compared to dining outside the museum. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Japanese Art History

The National Museum of Modern Art Tokyo (MOMAT) is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the evolution of Japanese art. Its extensive collection spans from the Meiji period (1868), a time of significant modernization and Western influence, right up to contemporary works. This allows visitors to trace the development of artistic styles, themes, and techniques as Japan navigated its place in the modern world. You'll encounter everything from traditional nihonga paintings that began to incorporate new perspectives, to bold abstract sculptures and thought-provoking installations. Instagram+2

What makes MOMAT particularly compelling is its focus on modern and contemporary Japanese artists. It provides a platform for both established masters and emerging talents, showcasing the dynamism and diversity of the nation's art scene. The museum frequently hosts special exhibitions that delve into specific artists, movements, or thematic explorations, offering deeper insights into particular facets of Japanese artistic expression. These temporary shows are often a highlight for repeat visitors and those seeking a more focused art experience. TikTok

For those new to Japanese art, the museum's layout and the availability of resources like the museum app can be incredibly helpful. The app uses Bluetooth to provide information about the artworks and areas you're in, making the exploration more interactive and informative. This blend of historical context and contemporary relevance makes MOMAT a must-visit for art lovers in Tokyo. Reddit

Navigating MOMAT: Tips for a Smooth Visit

Planning your visit to The National Museum of Modern Art Tokyo can be made much smoother with a few key insights. Many travelers find that purchasing tickets upon arrival is straightforward and avoids potential online booking issues, such as needing a Japanese phone number. While there might be a short queue, it's often less hassle than troubleshooting online systems. Reddit

To enhance your experience, consider downloading the MOMAT app. This handy tool utilizes Bluetooth technology to offer information about the exhibits and the museum's layout as you move through it. It's a great way to get more context without constantly searching for signs or audio guides. Reddit

When it comes to exploring the vast collections, remember that you don't have to see everything. Prioritize the exhibits that genuinely capture your interest. Whether it's a specific artist, a particular art movement, or a thematic display, focusing your time will lead to a more enjoyable and less overwhelming visit. The museum's diverse offerings mean there's always something new to discover, even for those who have visited before. Reddit

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