Mitsumasa Anno Art Museum
Discover the imaginative world of Mitsumasa Anno through his art and a unique planetarium, housed in a Tadao Ando masterpiece.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Mitsumasa Anno Art Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the imaginative world of Mitsumasa Anno through his art and a unique planetarium, housed in a Tadao Ando masterpiece.
"The building's beautiful exterior blends in with the Tsuwano cityscape, and the interior has a warm, nostalgic feel."
📅 Check Closing Days
The museum is closed on Thursdays. Always verify hours before your visit!
🎟️ Planetarium Reservations
You must reserve your spot at the reception desk for the planetarium shows.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Anno Mitsumasa's Art
Main Building
Experience the whimsical and detailed works of Mitsumasa Anno, famous for his picture books and illustrations.
Planetarium Shows
Planetarium
Enjoy unique shows, some narrated by Anno himself, exploring the connection between art and science.
Tsuwano Hometown Exhibition
Main Building
See paintings reflecting Anno's deep affection and connection to his hometown, Tsuwano.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📅 Check Closing Days
The museum is closed on Thursdays. Always verify hours before your visit!
🎟️ Planetarium Reservations
You must reserve your spot at the reception desk for the planetarium shows.
🚶♂️ Explore Tsuwano Town
The museum is near Tsuwano Station. Wander the historic streets after your visit!
💺 Planetarium Comfort
Some visitors found the planetarium seats uncomfortable for lying back.
Tips
from all over the internet
📅 Check Closing Days
The museum is closed on Thursdays. Always verify hours before your visit!
🎟️ Planetarium Reservations
You must reserve your spot at the reception desk for the planetarium shows.
🚶♂️ Explore Tsuwano Town
The museum is near Tsuwano Station. Wander the historic streets after your visit!
💺 Planetarium Comfort
Some visitors found the planetarium seats uncomfortable for lying back.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Mitsumasa Anno Art Museum for its unique collection of whimsical art and the architecturally stunning building designed by Tadao Ando. The planetarium, though requiring reservations and having potentially uncomfortable seating, is a unique highlight. The museum's integration into the charming Tsuwano townscape is also a significant draw.
"Museum with the works of the late Anno.
There is a planetarium, but the seats were too painful to lie back on."
John T
"Extra!"
Michel Tsurumoto
"🏣60-1 Ushiroda, Tsuwano Town, Shimane Prefecture
🅿️🚗...Yes, there is one.
🚃...About a 2-minute walk from Tsuwano Station.
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Opening Hours:
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
(Closed on Thursdays)
Admission Fee:
800 - 250 yen
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Born in Tsuwano on March 20, 1926
1950
Became an art teacher
1961
Retired from teaching and became an independent artist
1968
Received international acclaim for his works such as "Mysterious Pictures," "ABC Books," and "Travel Picture Books."
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March 20, 2001
The museum opened in front of Tsuwano Station.
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Died in 2020.
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In recognition of his many achievements, he received numerous awards both domestically and internationally, including the Brooklyn Museum Prize, the Hans Christian Andersen Award for Illustration, the Kate Greenaway Medal Special Award, the Medal with Purple Ribbon, the Order of Cultural Merit, and the 56th Kikuchi Kan Award.
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Main building (exhibition), annex (study building)
Exhibits are rotated four times a year.
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Designed by
Tadao Ando
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Check closing days.
Unfortunately, I wasn't able to enter the museum this time, but I did get to see the exterior of the building."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is conveniently located about a 2-minute walk from Tsuwano Station, making it easily accessible by train.
Yes, there is parking available near the museum for visitors arriving by car.
Tsuwano Town is known for its historic streets and traditional atmosphere, offering a charming complement to your museum visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees range from 250 to 800 yen for adults, depending on current exhibitions or special events.
The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on Thursdays.
Yes, you can re-enter the museum on the same day with your ticket.
Advance booking is generally not required for museum entry, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any updates.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
The museum features the works of Mitsumasa Anno, including his illustrations, picture books, and paintings, often with a focus on his hometown.
Visitors typically spend about three hours exploring the museum and the planetarium at a leisurely pace.
Yes, there is a planetarium that offers shows, some narrated by Mitsumasa Anno himself, exploring the link between art and science.
Planetarium reservations must be made at the reception desk upon arrival.
Yes, the exhibits are rotated four times a year, offering a fresh experience for repeat visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask museum staff about restrictions on taking photos inside the exhibition areas.
The museum's exterior, designed by Tadao Ando, blends beautifully with the Tsuwano cityscape and offers picturesque photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the planetarium! While reservations are needed at the reception, the shows can be a fun and educational outing for kids, exploring the universe through a unique artistic lens. The museum's proximity to Tsuwano Station also makes it an easy destination for a family day trip.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Appreciate the architectural brilliance of Tadao Ando, whose design for the museum is as much a work of art as the pieces it houses. The serene environment and thoughtful layout provide an ideal setting for deep engagement with Anno's intricate and whimsical creations.
🚶♂️ Solo Travelers & Day Trippers
You can comfortably spend a few hours exploring the art and enjoying a planetarium show. The museum's peaceful atmosphere is perfect for a contemplative solo visit. Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming streets of Tsuwano Town for a complete day trip experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Mitsumasa Anno
The Mitsumasa Anno Art Museum, designed by the acclaimed architect Tadao Ando, serves as a dedicated space to showcase his diverse body of work. The museum's collection is rotated four times a year, ensuring that visitors can experience different facets of Anno's artistic journey with each visit. This dynamic exhibition schedule highlights his versatility, from his early works to pieces inspired by his beloved hometown.
Anno's artistic philosophy often emphasized the interconnectedness of art and science, believing that imagination is a crucial tool for understanding the world. This belief is beautifully reflected in the museum's inclusion of a planetarium, offering a unique educational and artistic experience that complements the visual arts.
Tadao Ando's Architectural Vision
Ando's signature style is evident in the clean lines, geometric forms, and the serene, contemplative atmosphere he cultivates within the museum's spaces. The building's exterior is designed to blend with the cityscape, while the interior offers a warm and nostalgic feel, enhancing the visitor's experience of Anno's art. The thoughtful design ensures that the architecture itself becomes a part of the artistic appreciation, guiding visitors through the exhibits and creating moments of quiet reflection.
The inclusion of a planetarium within an art museum is an unusual yet inspired choice, reflecting a shared vision between Anno and Ando to explore the broader connections between different fields of knowledge and creativity. This architectural feature underscores the museum's commitment to providing a multi-faceted cultural experience that stimulates both the intellect and the imagination.
The Planetarium Experience
Shows in the planetarium are approximately 35 minutes long and are scheduled at specific times throughout the day, including 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, and 3:00 PM. Some of these presentations are narrated by Mitsumasa Anno himself, adding a personal and intimate touch to the experience. It's important to note that reservations are required and must be made at the reception desk upon arrival.
While the planetarium offers a fascinating complement to the art exhibits, some visitors have noted that the seats can be uncomfortable for extended periods, particularly if one wishes to recline fully. Despite this minor point, the planetarium remains a highly recommended part of the museum visit for its educational value and its unique connection to Anno's broader artistic vision.
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