
Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo
Tokyo's premier contemporary art hub, showcasing diverse Japanese & international artists within striking 1990s architecture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tokyo's premier contemporary art hub, showcasing diverse Japanese & international artists within striking 1990s architecture.
"A proper deep dive into local art history, not just the usual big names."

🎟️ Book Special Exhibition Tickets
Pre-book for popular shows like Ryuichi Sakamoto to skip long lines!
🚶♀️ Explore the Architecture
Don't just see the art; admire the building's design too!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ryuichi Sakamoto: Seeing Sound, Hearing Time
Special Exhibition Hall
An immersive exhibition exploring the intersection of sound and time, inspired by the late composer Ryuichi Sakamoto.

Architectural Marvel
Entire Museum
Designed by Takahiko Yanagisawa, the museum's striking 1990s architecture is a work of art itself.

Permanent Collection
Permanent Exhibition Hall
A deep dive into Japanese and international contemporary art, showcasing early local artists and diverse styles.

MSCHF Exhibition
Special Exhibition Hall
Experience provocative and viral art installations from the renowned MSCHF collective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Allocate Sufficient Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Special Exhibition Tickets
Pre-book for popular shows like Ryuichi Sakamoto to skip long lines!
🚶♀️ Explore the Architecture
Don't just see the art; admire the building's design too!
📸 Photo Policy Varies
Photography allowed in select rooms only. Check signs.
☕ Relax at the Cafe
Enjoy coffee and cakes in a lovely space after your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Special Exhibition Tickets
Pre-book for popular shows like Ryuichi Sakamoto to skip long lines!
🚶♀️ Explore the Architecture
Don't just see the art; admire the building's design too!
📸 Photo Policy Varies
Photography allowed in select rooms only. Check signs.
☕ Relax at the Cafe
Enjoy coffee and cakes in a lovely space after your visit.
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for more than 2 hours to see art & architecture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo for its impressive architecture and thoughtfully curated exhibitions, both permanent and special. The permanent collection offers a deep dive into Japanese art history, while special shows like Ryuichi Sakamoto's are highly engaging. However, long queues for popular exhibitions without advance booking are a common point of frustration.
"We only visited the main exhibition. It's quite reasonable in price with student and kids getting discounts.
It covers 90 years of modern contemporary art with a variety of styles from traditional watercolours to avant garde video installations. My family of five enjoyed it. Give yourself about 2 hours for the main exhibition.
Photography only allowed in some rooms.
The cafe had nice looking sandwiches, coffee and cakes on offer and looked like a lovely space to sit and reflect on the artworks you've just seen."
lex
"Nice change of pace from the usual tourist sites. No lines. Architecture has beautiful lines, stood the test of time. Front desk staff spoke English and efficient. Nice contempo art in their permanent collection as well as colorful plentiful special exhibit that was well marked and annotated."
Romina Wahab
"Visited the permanent collection and was inspired, so many early Japanese artists I’d never heard of, presented with real care. It felt like a proper deep dive into local art history, not just the usual big names. The building’s calm and spacious, and the gift shop is worth a browse too."
Michael Bugelli
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT) is accessible via public transport. Take the JR Sobu Line to Kinshicho Station and transfer to the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line to Sumiyoshi Station, then walk about 8 minutes. Alternatively, take the Toei Subway Oedo Line to Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station, which is about a 10-minute walk away.
mentions Ilham Gallery is a 3-min walk from Ampang Park LRT, but for MOT, expect a slightly longer walk from the nearest stations.Yes, there is a parking lot available at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. However, it is recommended to use public transportation due to potential congestion and the convenience of accessing the museum via train or subway.
From central Tokyo, taking the subway is generally the most efficient method. The Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line to Sumiyoshi Station or the Toei Subway Oedo Line to Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station are good options. Both offer a pleasant walk to the museum.
Yes, the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo is located in Koto City, which offers several other attractions. Nearby, you can find Kiyosumi Garden, a beautiful traditional Japanese garden, and the Edo-Tokyo Museum (currently closed for renovations, check status). The area also offers various cafes and local shops.
Taxis are available throughout Tokyo and can take you directly to the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. However, this can be more expensive than public transport, especially during peak hours or heavy traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the exhibition. General admission for the permanent collection is typically affordable, with discounts available for students and children.
Special exhibitions, like the Ryuichi Sakamoto or MSCHF shows, will have separate admission fees. It's best to check the official MOT website for current pricing.For popular special exhibitions, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid long wait times, as some visitors have experienced significant queues.
For the permanent collection, advance booking might not be as critical but is still a good idea during peak seasons.The Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo is generally open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last admission usually at 5:30 PM. However, hours can vary for special exhibitions and may differ on weekends or holidays. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, special exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo typically have a separate admission fee, which is often higher than the fee for the permanent collection. These exhibitions are a major draw and are frequently featured on social media.
Yes, you can usually buy tickets on-site at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. However, for highly anticipated exhibitions, purchasing tickets online in advance is strongly advised to save time and guarantee entry.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. While some areas may permit photography, it's often restricted in others, especially for special exhibitions. Always look for signage or ask museum staff before taking photos.
MOT showcases a wide range of contemporary art, including Japanese and international artists. You'll find everything from traditional paintings and sculptures to avant-garde video installations and conceptual pieces.
They host both permanent collections and rotating special exhibitions.Yes, the museum can be a great experience for families. The permanent collection offers a broad overview of art history, and special exhibitions often have engaging displays. Discounts for students and children make it more accessible.
The Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo is a large institution with extensive exhibition spaces. It's designed with a spacious and modern aesthetic, making it a significant architectural landmark as well.
MOT offers standard museum facilities, including restrooms, a gift shop, and a cafe. The architecture itself is a highlight, with beautiful lines and a calm, spacious atmosphere.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo has a cafe that offers coffee, cakes, and sandwiches. It's described as a lovely space to relax and reflect on the art you've seen.
The cafe at MOT typically serves light fare such as sandwiches, coffee, and cakes. It's a convenient spot for a break during your visit.
The area around the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, has several local cafes and restaurants. You can find more diverse dining options if you explore the neighborhood after your museum visit.
While specific prices aren't detailed, museum cafes in Tokyo are generally moderately priced, offering a convenient option within the venue. It's a good place for a quick refreshment rather than a full meal.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition halls of museums. It's best to consume any personal food items in designated areas outside the museum or at the cafe.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules vary by exhibition. Some areas allow it, while others prohibit it, especially for special exhibitions. Always check for signage or ask staff before taking pictures.
Often, photography is permitted in the museum's public spaces and sometimes in designated sections of the permanent collection. However, special exhibitions frequently have stricter rules to protect the artworks.
Flash photography is almost always prohibited in art museums, including MOT, as the light can damage delicate artworks over time. Always ensure your flash is turned off.
Absolutely! The museum's striking architecture by Takahiko Yanagisawa is a major draw for photographers.
Many visitors also find the art installations themselves to be highly photogenic, especially during popular exhibitions.Natural light can be beautiful inside the museum, especially in areas with large windows. Weekday mornings often offer fewer crowds, allowing for more relaxed photography sessions without obstructing other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While some special exhibitions might be more abstract or mature in theme, many are visually engaging and can capture children's attention. It's advisable to check the current exhibition details beforehand to gauge suitability. The spaciousness of the museum also means kids have room to move (respectfully, of course!) without feeling overly confined. The cafe provides a nice spot for a break and a snack.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Connoisseurs
The museum's architectural design by Takahiko Yanagisawa also adds another layer of appreciation, providing a sophisticated backdrop for the art. Visitors who appreciate a 'proper deep dive into local art history' will find the permanent collection particularly rewarding. Planning ahead by booking tickets for popular shows is key to maximizing your time and enjoyment.
📸 Photography Buffs
While photography of artworks is restricted, the museum's design itself is a subject worth capturing. Look for interesting angles, play with light and shadow, and explore the grand halls. For those interested in capturing art installations, keep an eye on current exhibitions, as many are highly photogenic and have been featured on social media.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture of MOT
Yanagisawa's vision for MOT was to create a space that was both functional for displaying art and aesthetically pleasing. The museum features a distinctive exterior and a grand, open interior layout, with large exhibition halls and ample natural light in certain areas. This architectural brilliance has been noted by many visitors, who find the building's design as compelling as the artworks it houses.
Exploring the museum is an opportunity to appreciate modern Japanese architecture. The building's enduring design has stood the test of time, providing a beautiful backdrop for both the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions. It's a testament to how architecture can enhance the appreciation of art, making MOT a must-visit for art and architecture enthusiasts alike.
Exploring Special Exhibitions
Visitors should be aware that these popular exhibitions can attract large crowds, leading to considerable wait times if tickets are not purchased in advance. Reports indicate queues of up to 1.5 hours for highly anticipated shows. Therefore, booking your tickets online ahead of time is a crucial tip for a smoother experience, allowing you more time to immerse yourself in the art rather than waiting in line.
These exhibitions are often the main draw for many visitors and offer a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge contemporary art. The way these exhibitions utilize the museum's space is also frequently praised, making the entire experience memorable and impactful. Checking the MOT's official schedule is essential to plan your visit around these exciting temporary displays.
The Permanent Collection: A Deep Dive
The collection spans a wide array of styles and periods, from traditional watercolors to avant-garde video installations, providing a comprehensive overview of artistic evolution. This curated selection allows for a thoughtful exploration of artistic movements and the cultural contexts that shaped them. The presentation of these works is consistently described as being done with 'real care'.
Experiencing the permanent collection provides a different, often more serene, perspective compared to the buzz of major temporary shows. It's an opportunity to appreciate the foundational works that have influenced contemporary art and to discover new favorite artists in a calm, spacious environment. The museum's architecture further enhances this experience, creating a peaceful setting for contemplation.
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