Saitama Prefectural Museum of Modern Art
Affordable modern art museum with unique design chairs and rotating local artist exhibits, set in a beautiful park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Saitama Prefectural Museum of Modern Art
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Affordable modern art museum with unique design chairs and rotating local artist exhibits, set in a beautiful park.
"Outstanding art museum with fabulously cool collection of design chairs you can actually sit in."
Sit and Stay Awhile
Take advantage of the unique design chairs to rest and truly soak in the art. :chair:
No Flash Photography!
Capture memories freely with no-flash photography, a rare treat in Japanese museums. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Designer Chair Lounge
Throughout the museum
Relax and admire art from stylish, comfortable design chairs you're invited to use.
International Modern Masters
Main exhibition halls
See works by renowned artists like Picasso, Monet, and Pissarro in an accessible setting.
Local Artist Showcases
Lower levels
Discover impressive photography and traditional Saitama dolls crafted by talented local artists.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Affordable Art Immersion
Beyond the Main Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What are some interesting places to visit in Saitama/Saitama-shi?
Sit and Stay Awhile
Take advantage of the unique design chairs to rest and truly soak in the art. :chair:
No Flash Photography!
Capture memories freely with no-flash photography, a rare treat in Japanese museums. :camerawithflash:
What thing are there in places like Kawasaki, Saitama, Chiba, etc.?
What are some "hidden gem" museums in Japan that you would recommend?
Explore the Gardens
The museum is set in a beautiful park with outdoor statues – perfect for a stroll. :deciduous_tree:
Incredible Value
With adult admission at only 200 JPY, it's one of the most affordable art experiences. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
Sit and Stay Awhile
Take advantage of the unique design chairs to rest and truly soak in the art. :chair:
No Flash Photography!
Capture memories freely with no-flash photography, a rare treat in Japanese museums. :camerawithflash:
Explore the Gardens
The museum is set in a beautiful park with outdoor statues – perfect for a stroll. :deciduous_tree:
Incredible Value
With adult admission at only 200 JPY, it's one of the most affordable art experiences. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Saitama Prefectural Museum of Modern Art for its exceptional value and unique features, particularly the comfortable design chairs and the allowance of no-flash photography. The diverse exhibits, from international masters to local artists, are appreciated, though some may find the layout spread across multiple floors. It's considered a peaceful and enriching cultural stop.
"Outstanding art museum with fabulously cool collection of design chairs you can actually sit in. Modern art (Picasso, Monet, Pissaro et al.,) is beautifully accessible and you are allowed to take no flash photography. This is almost unheard-of in most private collections in Japan. I will visit again and again. The price for adult admission is only 200JPY. The downstairs exhibit today had local artists work- a huge photography juried show with outstanding work, even from high-school students. I especially enjoyed the other exhibit downstairs of locally crafted Saitama dolls. Each display is a separate artist’s work, only labeled with each artist’s name. I met two lovely women who were stationed at a table at the entrance and found out that the two women were two of the artists. They gifted me with a handmade bag charm!"
Jesse Cukierkorn
"Wonderful place to be explored calmly! Many statues strategically placed throughout the gardens and inside we can see many rooms with several exhibits to be enjoyed at the same time!"
Maria Kawasaki
"Very Nice museum. B1 is public, otherwise you Van buy entrance to the first floor for only 200 yen.
The museum is located a super Nice
Area in the kita Urawa park"
Rebekka Haahr
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is conveniently located within Kita Urawa Park and is a short walk from Kita-Urawa Station. This makes it easily accessible via public transport, a common recommendation for navigating Japan.
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, being near a train station suggests public transport is the preferred method. If driving, check for public parking options in Kita Urawa Park. :car:
Yes, the Saitama Prefectural Museum of Modern Art is accessible from Tokyo. You can take a train to Kita-Urawa Station, which is well-connected to major Tokyo hubs. :train2:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is remarkably affordable, with adult tickets costing only 200 JPY. This low price makes it a fantastic value for experiencing diverse art collections.
While the general admission is 200 JPY, temporary or special exhibitions might have separate pricing. It's always a good idea to check the museum's official website or inquire upon arrival for the most current information. :ticket:
Advance booking is generally not required for the Saitama Prefectural Museum of Modern Art due to its affordable pricing and focus on accessibility. However, for very popular temporary exhibitions, it might be advisable. :calendar:
Opening hours can vary, especially for temporary exhibitions. It's best to check the official Saitama Prefectural Museum of Modern Art website for the most up-to-date information on daily opening and closing times. :clock1:
Information on specific discounts for students or seniors is not widely publicized. Given the already low general admission price, it's worth inquiring at the ticket counter if you qualify for any potential concessions. :moneywithwings:
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
The museum features a diverse collection, including international modern art by masters like Picasso and Monet, as well as rotating exhibits of local artists, photography, and traditional Saitama crafts.
Yes, you can take photos inside the museum, but without flash. This is a generous policy that allows visitors to capture their favorite pieces. :camerawithflash:
Absolutely! The museum is famous for its collection of stylish design chairs that visitors are encouraged to sit in while enjoying the art, offering a unique and comfortable viewing experience.
The museum's accessible art and the unique design chairs can be engaging for children. The surrounding park also offers space for them to play. :child:
Visitors recommend exploring calmly, taking your time to appreciate the different exhibits and enjoying the comfortable seating. Don't forget to explore the lower levels for local artist showcases.
🎫 🌳 Gardens & Surroundings
The museum is situated in Kita Urawa Park, which features outdoor statues and green spaces, making it a pleasant area for a walk or relaxation after your museum visit.
Yes, Kita Urawa Park is a lovely area with strategically placed statues and is a great complement to the museum visit, offering a peaceful environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the indoor exhibits, the museum's location within Kita Urawa Park provides ample space for children to run around and explore the outdoor statues. This combination of engaging indoor exhibits and outdoor recreational space makes it a well-rounded destination for a family day out. Consider exploring the local artist exhibits on the lower floors, which might feature more visually engaging pieces for younger eyes.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a stroll through the surrounding Kita Urawa Park, which is free to enter and offers pleasant scenery and outdoor art installations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Accessible Art
Beyond the price, the museum's approach to viewing art is also unique. The presence of stylish design chairs throughout the galleries invites visitors to linger, relax, and truly immerse themselves in the artworks. This thoughtful inclusion transforms the typical museum visit into a more comfortable and contemplative experience. Furthermore, the policy allowing no-flash photography is a rare and appreciated gesture in Japan, enabling visitors to capture memories of their visit without disturbing the art or other patrons.
This blend of affordability, comfort, and visitor-friendly policies creates an environment where art appreciation is encouraged and facilitated, making the Saitama Prefectural Museum of Modern Art a gem for both seasoned art lovers and casual visitors alike. It's a place where you can explore masterpieces and local talent at your own pace, in a relaxed setting.
Discovering Local Treasures
These exhibits can range from striking photography juried shows to intricate displays of traditional crafts. One visitor specifically mentioned enjoying an exhibition of locally crafted Saitama dolls, noting the unique artistry and the opportunity to connect with the cultural heritage of the area.
Exploring these local showcases offers a deeper understanding of Saitama's artistic landscape and provides a refreshing contrast to the international collections. It's a chance to discover hidden gems and appreciate the diverse creative spirit of the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit