Hokkaido Museum of Art, Asahikawa

Overview

The Hokkaido Museum of Art, Asahikawa, opened in 1982. Located in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, it houses a collection of works by artists with connections to the Dohoku region, and, reflecting Asahikawa's reputation as a woodcraft town, features traditional wood crafts, modern wood sculptures, and woodworking. The museum also holds special exhibitions showcasing outstanding works from Japan and abroad. The museum building itself is a masterpiece designed by Giya Tagami, a leading architect in Hokkaido. The warm, inviting atmosphere of the wood-rich space provides a relaxing setting for art appreciation. Key collections include paintings by Ryuki Nanbata (born in Asahikawa), Susumu Sato (born in Shibetsu), and Sadao Abe; wood carvings by Akira Kamiyama, Kei Funakoshi, and Bikki Sunazawa; crafts and designs by Norio Tanno; and wood crafts by Tatsuaki Kuroda (Living National Treasure). The museum also features a cafe, "Tokiwa no Ki," serving freshly brewed coffee, and a museum shop selling Asahikawa-related crafts and catalogs from past exhibitions. The Asahikawa Museum of Art is a place to enrich your soul and experience art. Be sure to visit when you are in Asahikawa.