Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum, Tokyo - a building with a tree in front
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Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum Tokyo

4.5
·2k reviews·Minato City, Japan

Step into the former home and studio of avant-garde artist Taro Okamoto, a unique museum showcasing his bold sculptures and paintings.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
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Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum, Tokyo - a building with a tree in front

Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum Tokyo

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into the former home and studio of avant-garde artist Taro Okamoto, a unique museum showcasing his bold sculptures and paintings.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"The dreamiest art museum in Tokyo, one of my favorite museums I've been to, ever. TikTok"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Double-Check the Name!

Ensure you're looking for 'Taro Okamoto,' not 'Taro Okamato.' A small but important detail for your search!

📍 Location is Key

This museum is a bit hidden. Use your map and look for signs carefully to avoid missing it.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Taro Okamoto's Former Residence

Taro Okamoto's Former Residence

Minami-Aoyama, Tokyo

Explore the personal living and working space of a revolutionary abstract artist. See where his iconic creations came to life.

Iconic Sculptures and Paintings

Iconic Sculptures and Paintings

Museum Galleries

Witness the vibrant and often provocative works of Taro Okamoto, a master of abstract expressionism. His art challenges perceptions.

Myth of Tomorrow Mural

Myth of Tomorrow Mural

Museum Grounds (check availability)

Discover the powerful 'Myth of Tomorrow' mural, a significant piece by Taro Okamoto with a fascinating history.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Finding This Hidden Gem

This museum is a bit tricky to find, tucked away in Minami-Aoyama. Plan your route in advance, as some visitors have missed it on their first try. Allow ample time to explore this unique space dedicated to a pivotal Japanese artist. TikTok

Artistic Immersion

Step into the former home and studio of Taro Okamoto, a visionary 20th-century artist. The museum offers a deeply personal glimpse into his creative world, showcasing his bold sculptures and paintings. Prepare for a visually stimulating experience. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Still manageable crowd levels
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

the dreamiest art museum in tokyo ✨ one of my favorite museums ive been to, ever. 🥹💕🌸 it took me forever to find so i didnt make it in time durin my tokyo portion of my trip so i booked it here after ...
@lexitaketa
86.1K likes • 366.1K views

🎯 Double-Check the Name!

Ensure you're looking for 'Taro Okamoto,' not 'Taro Okamato.' A small but important detail for your search! Reddit

📍 Location is Key

This museum is a bit hidden. Use your map and look for signs carefully to avoid missing it. TikTok

Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum 📍6 Chome-1-19 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0062, Japan Taro Okamoto, who is one of the most essential Japanese artists, was used to live here as his atelier. The ...
experience_real_japan
11 likes • 380 views
TOKYO EXHIBITION | TARO OKAMOTO MEMORIAL MUSEUM, Kenji Yanobe “Taro, Cat, and Sun” 《ヤノベケンジがふたたびジャック!》⇦ブログ「建築とアートを巡る」はプロフの🔗から 日々巡った建築とアートを発信中✨ #tarookamoto #kenjiyanobe #tokyoexhibition #tarookam...
_saaaaaoo_
691 likes • 34.3K views

🛍️ Unique Souvenirs

The museum shop sells original presentation documents and other unique items related to Taro Okamoto's work. Reddit

🎨 Art Lover's Paradise

Immerse yourself in the avant-garde world of a truly essential Japanese artist. Instagram

La maison bien étrange de Taro Okamoto à Tokyo🗼🇯🇵 ➡️ Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum, Tokyo, Japan ➡️ @kr0wslive pour toujours plus de découverte au Japon #japon #tokyo #vieaujapon #japonais #tarookamot...
kr0wslive
105 likes • 3.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Double-Check the Name!

Ensure you're looking for 'Taro Okamoto,' not 'Taro Okamato.' A small but important detail for your search! Reddit

📍 Location is Key

This museum is a bit hidden. Use your map and look for signs carefully to avoid missing it. TikTok

🛍️ Unique Souvenirs

The museum shop sells original presentation documents and other unique items related to Taro Okamoto's work. Reddit

🎨 Art Lover's Paradise

Immerse yourself in the avant-garde world of a truly essential Japanese artist. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum for its intimate atmosphere and the profound artistic experience it offers, showcasing the personal world of a pivotal Japanese artist. While some find it a bit challenging to locate, the unique insight into Okamoto's life and work makes it a highly rewarding visit for art lovers. TikTokInstagram

"(Mar 2025) Located in cool area, the museum provides some of the artist’s paintings and artworks. The place is not spacious but very inspirational. Also they have cafe and souvenirs as well."

Noi GoNoY

"This museum was Okamoto’s home and studio from 1954 until his death. The building, designed by architect Junzo Sakakura (a student of Le Corbusier), was preserved and transformed into a museum by his partner Toshiko Okamoto to honor his legacy. Opened to the public on May 7, 1998, two years after Okamoto’s death in 1996. And this is small and cute museum with a tiny dreamy garden.
Count to spend here something between 1h to 2h max. Make lots of photos because this place is like a wonderland - just like Okamoto’s art. And do you wonder who’s Taro Okamoto? Well have you seen that huge tower of sun in Osaka - yup that’s the guy. There is also his huge Museum (dedicated to his art) in Osaka, but that’s for later.
Srsly recommend it if you’re in the area or just want soome quirky and cute stuff.
Check out their website for current exhibition - the big cat bang is fantastic ❤️❤️"

Katarzyna A.

"Colorful small art museum which I believe only shows art about taro okamoto. Worthwhile to drop by and feel his ideas."

Jacob Xu

What People Like

Intimate artist's home setting
Powerful abstract art
Unique cultural insight

What People Dislike

Difficult to find

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located in Minami-Aoyama. You can reach it via subway. The closest stations are Gaienmae Station (Ginza Line) or Aoyama-Itchome Station (Ginza Line, Hanzomon Line, Toei Oedo Line). From the stations, it's a short walk. TikTokInstagram

It can be a bit elusive! Some visitors have reported difficulty finding it, so it's best to use a reliable map app and be prepared for a short walk from the nearest station. TikTok

The Tokyo Metro subway system is highly efficient. Taking the Ginza Line to Gaienmae or Aoyama-Itchome is recommended for easy access to the Minami-Aoyama area where the museum is located.

While there might be paid parking lots in the vicinity, public transportation is generally the most convenient way to access the museum, especially given its somewhat hidden location.

Yes, you can use a taxi, but ensure your driver knows the exact address in Minami-Aoyama, as it's not a widely known landmark for all taxi drivers.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The museum typically opens around 9:30 AM and closes at 5:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary. Instagram

Admission fees are generally quite reasonable, often around ¥1,000 for adults. Check the museum's official website for current pricing and any potential discounts. Instagram

Advance booking is usually not required for general admission, but it's wise to check their website, especially if you plan to visit during peak exhibition times or holidays. TikTok

The museum is typically closed on Mondays and during the New Year holidays. Again, confirm with their official schedule before your visit. Instagram

Yes, the museum occasionally hosts special exhibitions, sometimes in collaboration with other artists like Kenji Yanobe. These may have different admission details or hours. Instagram

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

You'll see a collection of Taro Okamoto's sculptures, paintings, and personal belongings displayed in his former home and studio. It offers an intimate look at his artistic life. Instagram+1

While the art itself is abstract and thought-provoking, the space is relatively small. It's more suited for older children or those with an interest in art. TikTok

Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is allowed in most areas, but it's best to check for specific restrictions within galleries or during special exhibitions. Instagram

Most visitors spend about 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the museum and its exhibits. If there's a special exhibition, you might want to allocate a bit more time. TikTok

The museum itself does not typically have a cafe or restaurant. However, the surrounding Minami-Aoyama area is filled with stylish cafes and dining options. Instagram

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

The museum shop offers a selection of art books, prints, and unique items related to Taro Okamoto's work, including original presentation documents. Reddit

Minami-Aoyama is a fashionable district with numerous upscale cafes, bistros, and restaurants offering diverse culinary experiences. You'll find plenty of options for lunch or a snack. Instagram

While Minami-Aoyama leans towards contemporary dining, you can find excellent Japanese cuisine, including sushi and ramen, in nearby neighborhoods accessible by a short subway ride or walk.

Dining in Minami-Aoyama can range from moderately priced cafes to high-end restaurants. Expect to pay more for meals in this upscale district compared to other parts of Tokyo.

Explore the local patisseries and bakeries in the area for exquisite Japanese and French-inspired pastries. You might also find unique artisanal ice cream shops.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum is a fascinating place, its abstract art and intimate setting might be best suited for families with older children or teenagers who have a genuine interest in art. The museum is housed in Okamoto's former home, so it's not a large, sprawling complex with interactive exhibits. However, the bold colors and unique forms of his sculptures can capture the imagination of younger visitors. TikTok

Tips for families: Consider discussing Taro Okamoto's life and art beforehand to build anticipation. The 'Myth of Tomorrow' mural, if accessible, can be a powerful talking point about history and resilience. After your visit, explore the surrounding Minami-Aoyama area for child-friendly cafes or parks for a change of pace. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Culture Seekers

For those passionate about 20th-century art and Japanese modernism, the Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum is an absolute must-visit. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the personal world of a groundbreaking artist. The museum's former residence setting provides an intimate glimpse into his creative process and daily life, making the experience deeply resonant. Instagram

Recommendations: Take your time to absorb the atmosphere of his studio. Look for unique pieces in the museum shop, such as original presentation documents, which are highly sought after by collectors. Reddit Consider visiting during a weekday morning to enjoy a more contemplative experience without the crowds.

🚶 Solo Travelers & Explorers

The Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum is an excellent destination for solo travelers seeking a unique cultural experience in Tokyo. Its somewhat hidden nature makes the discovery feel personal and rewarding. The intimate scale of the museum allows for a focused and contemplative visit, perfect for individual reflection on Okamoto's powerful artistic statements. TikTok

Solo traveler tips: Allow yourself to get lost in the art and the ambiance of the former home. The surrounding Minami-Aoyama district is also wonderful for solo exploration, with its stylish streets and quiet cafes. Don't hesitate to strike up a conversation with museum staff if you have questions about Okamoto's work or life.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistic Vision of Taro Okamoto

Taro Okamoto (1917-1996) was a towering figure in 20th-century Japanese art, renowned for his avant-garde approach and prolific output across various mediums. His work is characterized by its bold, often surreal imagery, vibrant colors, and a profound engagement with universal themes of life, death, and humanity. Okamoto famously declared, 'Art is an explosion!' reflecting his belief in art's power to shock, provoke, and liberate. His artistic philosophy was deeply influenced by his experiences in Paris, where he studied under Surrealist masters, and his later involvement with the Abstract Expressionist movement. Instagram

The Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum is housed in his former residence and studio in Minami-Aoyama, Tokyo. This intimate setting allows visitors to experience his creative environment firsthand, offering a unique perspective on his life and work. The museum showcases a significant collection of his paintings, sculptures, and personal artifacts, providing a comprehensive overview of his artistic journey. Instagram

One of Okamoto's most significant, yet historically complex, works is the mural 'Myth of Tomorrow.' This monumental piece, depicting the horrors of nuclear war and the hope for rebirth, was lost for decades before being rediscovered and restored. Its presence at the museum (or its association with Okamoto's legacy) serves as a powerful reminder of art's capacity to address critical social and political issues. Reddit

Navigating Minami-Aoyama: An Artistic Oasis

Minami-Aoyama, the district where the Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum is located, is known for its sophisticated atmosphere, high-end fashion boutiques, and art galleries. It's a stark contrast to the bustling energy of Shibuya or Shinjuku, offering a more refined and tranquil urban experience. The area is a hub for design and creativity, making it a fitting home for Okamoto's legacy. Instagram

Getting to Minami-Aoyama is straightforward via Tokyo's efficient public transport system. The nearest subway stations are Gaienmae and Aoyama-Itchome, both well-connected to major lines. From these stations, a pleasant walk through tree-lined streets will lead you to the museum. Be prepared for a bit of a search, as the museum is not prominently signposted from afar, adding to its 'hidden gem' appeal. TikTok

Beyond the museum, Minami-Aoyama offers a delightful exploration for art and design enthusiasts. You can wander through its stylish streets, discover contemporary art spaces, and enjoy the chic ambiance. The area also boasts numerous cafes and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely break after immersing yourself in Okamoto's art. Instagram

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