Suntory Museum of Art Tokyo
A serene Tokyo museum showcasing exquisite Japanese art, from intricate lacquerware to vibrant textiles, within stunning Kengo Kuma architecture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Suntory Museum of Art Tokyo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Tokyo museum showcasing exquisite Japanese art, from intricate lacquerware to vibrant textiles, within stunning Kengo Kuma architecture.
"The museum's design is as beautiful as the art; a peaceful escape in Tokyo."
Check current exhibitions
Always see what's on display; special shows are a major draw!
Admire the architecture
The museum's design is as beautiful as the art. Enjoy the natural light!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Special Exhibitions
Discover rotating displays of Japanese art, from ancient crafts to contemporary pieces. Always something new to see!

Lacquerware Collection
Marvel at exquisite examples of Japanese lacquer art, showcasing intricate designs and masterful craftsmanship.

Textile Art
Explore the beauty and artistry of traditional Japanese textiles, often featuring vibrant colors and detailed patterns.

Architectural Design
Experience the serene ambiance created by Kengo Kuma's design, utilizing natural materials and soft lighting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Embrace the Artful Architecture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check current exhibitions
Always see what's on display; special shows are a major draw!
Admire the architecture
The museum's design is as beautiful as the art. Enjoy the natural light!
Book tickets online
Avoid queues, especially for popular exhibitions.
Explore the collection database
See what tea ware and ceramics are in their collection.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check current exhibitions
Always see what's on display; special shows are a major draw!
Admire the architecture
The museum's design is as beautiful as the art. Enjoy the natural light!
Book tickets online
Avoid queues, especially for popular exhibitions.
Explore the collection database
See what tea ware and ceramics are in their collection.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Suntory Museum of Art for its serene atmosphere and beautifully curated exhibitions, particularly its focus on traditional Japanese arts like lacquerware and textiles. The architectural design by Kengo Kuma is frequently highlighted as a significant draw, creating a tranquil and aesthetically pleasing environment. Some visitors note that special exhibitions can be quite popular, leading to moderate crowds.
"super fun curation, very irreverent and thought-provoking. really like that they show a different dimension of japanese art. it’s also located in tokyo midtown so you can do some shopping before/after."
Esther Cheah
"Exhibition on a small collection of Emile Galle, mostly glassware in the 1880s.
Quite interesting. Weekend lunch time was crowded."
K. T
"Love the latest exhibition (More and More: Unsettling Japanese Art)! The museum provides English description and makes Japanese art very approachable. Highly recommended. They do rotating exhibitions (no permanent exhibits), so check out the website in advance to check if it’s up your alley."
Jennifer Frentasia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Suntory Museum of Art is conveniently located in Tokyo Midtown. You can reach it via the Tokyo Metro stations Nogizaka (Chiyoda Line), Roppongi (Hibiya Line, Oedo Line), or Akasaka (Chiyoda Line). Many visitors find Nogizaka Station to be the most direct route.
Yes, Tokyo Midtown offers parking facilities. However, public transportation is generally recommended due to potential traffic and the ease of access via subway lines.
Nogizaka Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line is often cited as the closest and most convenient station. Roppongi Station also provides access, though it might involve a slightly longer walk.
Suntory Museum of Art is part of the Tokyo Midtown complex, which is a hub of shops and restaurants. It's also relatively close to other museums like the Nezu Museum, making it easy to combine visits.
While subway access is primary, checking local bus routes that serve the Roppongi or Nogizaka areas would be advisable for specific bus travel plans.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees vary depending on the current exhibition. It's best to check the official website or social media for the most up-to-date pricing for special exhibitions.
Yes, tickets are typically available for purchase at the museum. However, for popular exhibitions, booking in advance online is highly recommended to secure your entry and avoid potential sell-outs.
The museum generally opens around 10 AM and closes around 6 PM, with last admission usually an hour before closing. Specific hours can vary by exhibition and day, so always confirm on their official site.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or group bookings. Check the museum's official website for details on any applicable concessions or special offers.
Some city passes might offer discounts or entry to certain attractions within Tokyo Midtown, but it's essential to verify if the Suntory Museum of Art is specifically included in any current tourist passes.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The museum focuses on Japanese art, featuring special exhibitions of lacquerware, textiles, paintings, ceramics, and more. They often highlight traditional crafts and historical periods.
Generally, photography is not permitted in exhibition halls to protect the artworks. However, some areas might allow it, so always look for signage or ask staff for clarification.
Designed by Kengo Kuma, the museum is known for its serene atmosphere, utilizing natural materials like Japanese paper and wood. The soft, diffused light creates a welcoming and tranquil environment.
Information on guided tours can usually be found on the museum's official website. These tours can offer deeper insights into the exhibitions and artworks.
Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours at the museum, depending on the size and complexity of the current exhibition. Some may linger longer if they find a particular exhibit captivating.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the museum itself may not have a full-service restaurant, it is located within Tokyo Midtown, which offers a wide array of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
Tokyo Midtown provides diverse culinary choices, including Japanese, Western, and international cuisines. You'll find everything from quick bites to fine dining experiences.
Tokyo Midtown has numerous cafes. Exploring the complex will reveal many options, from coffee shops to places offering light snacks and desserts.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not allowed inside museum exhibition spaces. It's best to consume any personal food items in designated areas outside the galleries or at nearby dining establishments.
Given the variety of dining in Tokyo Midtown, you are likely to find vegetarian and vegan options at many of the restaurants. It's advisable to check menus or inquire with the restaurant staff.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally prohibited inside the exhibition halls to protect the artworks. Always check for signage or ask museum staff for specific rules regarding photography.
Sometimes, museums may designate certain areas, like the lobby or specific displays, where photography is permitted. This is not guaranteed, so always look for official guidance.
The exterior of the museum, especially the entrance and the surrounding Tokyo Midtown complex, offers good photo opportunities. The architectural elements themselves are quite photogenic.
Flash photography is almost always forbidden in art museums as it can damage delicate artworks. Non-flash photography rules also apply strictly.
The unique architecture and the serene ambiance of the museum, along with the art itself (when photography is allowed), can be very Instagrammable. The surrounding Tokyo Midtown area also has visually appealing spots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting, focus on the visual aspects of the art – the vibrant colors in textiles, the intricate patterns in lacquerware, or the unique shapes of ceramics. Engaging children by asking them to find specific motifs or colors can make the experience more interactive. Always check for any family-oriented programming or exhibitions that might be more accessible to younger audiences.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
Pay close attention to the details and craftsmanship highlighted in each exhibition. The museum's collection database is also a valuable resource for those interested in specific types of Japanese art, such as tea utensils, offering a glimpse into their holdings and potential areas of focus.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Kengo Kuma
The design emphasizes diffused natural light, achieved through innovative use of screens and translucent materials. This creates a soft, inviting glow that enhances the viewing experience of the artworks without being harsh or distracting. The interplay of light and shadow, combined with the organic textures, makes the museum itself a work of art, offering a serene escape from the bustling city outside. Visitors often comment on the peaceful atmosphere and the thoughtful integration of the building with its surroundings.
Kuma's approach at the Suntory Museum of Art is a prime example of his philosophy of 'designing for the senses.' He aims to create spaces that engage visitors on multiple levels, fostering a connection with the art and the environment. The museum's structure, with its gentle curves and layered elements, invites exploration and contemplation, making a visit a holistic sensory experience.
Exploring Japanese Art Traditions
Beyond decorative arts, the museum also features paintings and ceramics, offering insights into the aesthetic sensibilities and artistic evolution of Japan. Exhibitions frequently focus on specific schools of art, influential artists, or thematic explorations, providing a comprehensive understanding of different artistic movements. The museum's commitment to preserving and presenting these cultural treasures makes it a vital destination for anyone interested in Japanese art history.
One notable aspect is the museum's focus on art that reflects Japanese life and culture, including items related to the tea ceremony, such as tea utensils and ceramics. This connection to daily rituals and cultural practices adds another layer of appreciation for the displayed works. The museum's collection database even allows enthusiasts to explore these items online, hinting at the depth of their holdings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit