Guide
The Fukuyama Museum of Art is a municipal art museum located in Nishimachi, Fukuyama City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Opened in 1988, the museum is uniquely situated within the historic landscape of Fukuyama Castle. Its location, which incorporates the former outer moat of the castle, serves as a vital cultural hub for the region. The museum boasts a diverse collection, ranging from modern Japanese and European art to an extraordinary collection of Japanese swords.
Established to promote regional arts and culture, the museum's site utilizes parts of the outer moat and small hills of the former Fukuyama Castle, creating a deep connection with the historical ruins of the castle fortress. Designed by Sato Sogo Plan, the museum has been a cultural landmark of Fukuyama since its opening in 1988. Much of the collection features artists with deep ties to Fukuyama and the Setouchi region, providing a profound sense of local history.
The exhibition content is remarkably diverse. Visitors can explore collections of modern Japanese art and 20th-century European art, featuring works by renowned artists such as Giorgio de Chirico and Albert Marquet, as well as masterpieces by leading Japanese artists like Ryusei Kishida and Rojin Kitokoji.
Of particular note is the "Komatsu Collection" of Japanese swords. Collected by the honorary citizen of Fukuyama, Mr. Yasuhiro Komatsu, this collection includes several National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, such as the Tachi (long sword) inscribed with the names 'Soku-fusa' and 'Chushu-sumi Sa'. These pieces represent the absolute pinnacle of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and metalworking.
The museum is surrounded by the expansive Fukuyama Castle Park, offering breathtaking scenery that changes with the seasons. The area is particularly beautiful during the cherry blossom season in spring and the vibrant foliage of autumn. We recommend visiting during the daytime (opening hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM) to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the harmony between the art and the natural environment.
The museum hosts approximately 4 to 6 special exhibitions per year, ensuring that visitors can encounter new themes and contemporary works regularly. Additionally, the 2nd floor houses the relocated Fukuyama Calligraphy Museum, where you can experience the elegant art of Japanese calligraphy. Between exhibitions, you can relax and enjoy a quiet moment at the on-site cafe.
Since the museum is located within Fukuyama Castle Park, it is surrounded by many historical landmarks. It is easily accessible to major sightseeing spots such as the Fukuyama Castle Tenshu (keep), the historic streets of Tomonoura, and other cultural sites within Fukuyama City. It is an ideal starting point for a cultural itinerary involving a stroll through the castle grounds.
To protect the artworks, photography restrictions may apply depending on the specific exhibition; please follow the instructions of the staff. We recommend wearing modest, comfortable clothing. Eating and drinking are strictly prohibited inside the galleries, except in the designated cafe area. The facility is barrier-free, with accessible entrances and restrooms available for wheelchair users.