Guide
The Tokyo University of the Arts Museum is a highly prestigious institution operated by the Tokyo University of the Arts, one of Japan's leading art universities. The museum operates two main sites: the Ueno Campus in Ueno Park and the Toride Campus in Toride, Ibaraki Prefecture. It houses an extensive collection of significant materials in the history of Japanese art. The campus features a blend of historic red-brick architecture and modern design, making the architecture itself a piece of art to be experienced. Visitors can feel the footsteps of those who dedicated their lives to the revival of Japanese art through a high-quality, immersive experience.
The museum's history dates back to the establishment of the Tokyo School of Fine Arts in 1887. Based on the educational philosophies of figures like Okakura Tenshin and Ernest Fenollosa, who were instrumental in the revival of Japanese art, the collection of fine arts has been a long-standing tradition. The exhibition spaces have evolved alongside history, such as the red-brick 'Display Hall' built in 1929 and the castle-style 'Masaki Memorial Hall' in 1935. In 1994, the Toride Campus was completed in Ibaraki Prefecture for the preservation and dissemination of artistic materials, and with the completion of the new 'Toride Storage Building' in 2024, the museum continues its mission of preserving, inheriting, and creating new artistic expressions.
The collection is incredibly diverse, with the antique art collection being particularly breathtaking. It includes precious works that tell the story of Japanese history, such as the National Treasure 'Eien Kagyo' and 'Kansei-ji Temple Materials,' as well as Important Cultural Properties like 'Maki Kaifu-zu' by Ogata Korin and the 'Seated Dainichi Nyorai' by Kaikei. In modern art, the museum holds famous works such as 'Hibo Kannon' by Kano Hogai and 'Salmon' by Takahashi Yuichi. Exhibitions change frequently, featuring themes like the 'Geidai Collection Exhibition' or special exhibitions reflecting the research of faculty and students.
Exhibition content varies significantly depending on the season and specific events. During the winter, you may encounter graduation exhibitions or research presentations by doctoral and master's students, allowing you to feel the passion of students at the forefront of Japanese art education. At the Toride Campus, the 'Toride Storage Building' sometimes hosts events like stargazing using the building's walls as a backdrop, offering an experience that transcends the traditional gallery space. Please note that the last entry is at 16:30, so plan your visit accordingly if you intend to arrive near the closing time of 17:00.
Beyond simple viewing, there are opportunities to witness the process of art preservation. At the Toride Campus, the 'Visible Storage' concept allows visitors to experience the management and preservation of artistic materials through the entrance areas. Furthermore, the museum follows the 'Wall Museum Concept,' where the entire space—including walls, floors, and lighting—is designed with artistic intent by faculty members. You can also spend a relaxing time immersing yourself in art while utilizing the museum shop or the on-site cafeteria.
The Ueno Park area, where the museum is located, is a major cultural and artistic hub in Tokyo. It is adjacent to the Tokyo National Museum, the National Museum of Western Art, and the National Museum of Nature and Science, allowing you to explore a comprehensive range of history, Western art, and science within walking distance. Ueno Park itself offers a beautiful environment for strolling among greenery and ponds. For a different atmosphere, visiting the Toride Campus in Ibaraki will offer a unique experience where architecture and art are one with the expansive campus.
To protect the exhibits, photography may be restricted or prohibited in certain areas. Please be aware that some exhibitions may require restrictions on smartphone use. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes to enjoy the space. Please maintain a quiet demeanor and do not touch any exhibits. The museum is equipped for accessibility and offers wheelchair rentals for visitors.