Guide
The Aichi Prefectural Museum of Art is a public art museum located in Higashi-ku, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture. It specializes in collecting and displaying 20th-century art from both Japan and the international community. Since opening in its current location within the Aichi Arts Center in 1992, it has become a cornerstone of the region's cultural scene. The museum holds a diverse collection spanning Western painting, Japanese-style Western painting, and traditional Japanese painting, offering a profound look into the evolution of modern art.
The museum's predecessor, the Aichi Prefectural Cultural Hall Museum, opened in 1955. It holds the distinction of being the second public museum of its kind in Japan, following the Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Modern Art. The move to the Aichi Arts Center in 1992 allowed for a much more robust exhibition and collection system. The museum also serves as a vital hub for cultural exchange, often hosting international art festivals. Furthermore, it is a leader in digital preservation, offering advanced research-based digital archives that include high-resolution images of the reverse sides of works and X-ray photography.
The exhibition spaces are primarily divided between the 10th-floor Special/Collection Exhibition Rooms and the 8th-floor Gallery. The collection includes world-renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Gustav Klimt, and Andy Warhol. It also preserves significant works by Japanese masters like Ryuzaburo Umhara, Sotaro Yasui, Taikan Yokoyama, Shunso Hishida, and Kan'u Yamamoto. Being able to compare these international giants with Japanese masters in a single facility is a truly valuable experience for art enthusiasts. The collection also includes important cultural properties by artists such as Gyokudo Urakami and Yosa Buson.
Opening hours vary depending on the exhibition room. The 10th-floor Special/Collection Exhibition Rooms are open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, while the 8th-floor Gallery is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. While the specific exhibitions change seasonally, we recommend checking the official schedule in advance to ensure you don't miss the most significant pieces of the season. We recommend visiting during the daytime to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil, sophisticated atmosphere of the museum.
Visitors can engage deeply with the history and techniques of art through professionally curated displays. The museum's commitment to digital archiving allows enthusiasts to explore the intricate details of works via the website, including X-ray views. Beyond the galleries, the museum shop offers a variety of art books and exclusive merchandise. Visiting the museum alongside other facilities in the Aichi Arts Center provides a comprehensive way to experience the cultural depth of Nagoya.
The Aichi Arts Center is situated in the heart of Nagoya. The adjacent Oasis 21 is a popular urban landmark where you can enjoy shopping and dining. The museum is conveniently located within walking distance of both Sakae Station and Hisaya-odori Station, making it an easy stop during a day of sightseeing in the city.
To protect the artworks, it is highly recommended to leave large bags in the cloakroom or lockers. Please be mindful of your attire; avoid clothing that may be overly disruptive to the exhibition environment. While the museum shop and certain facilities accept cashless payments, it is always good to have a plan. Photography rules vary by exhibition, so please follow the instructions of the staff. To maintain a peaceful atmosphere, please set your smartphone to silent mode and keep conversation volumes low.