Guide
Towada Art Center is a contemporary art museum located in the heart of Towada City, Aomori Prefecture. Serving as the core of the 'Arts Towada' project, it is an open facility designed to provide new experiences through art. The most striking feature is its unique architectural structure: individual exhibition rooms are connected by glass walkways, creating a sense of movement. Visitors can enjoy viewing artworks while feeling as though they are strolling through a town. Many exhibition rooms feature large glass openings, creating an open, airy atmosphere that connects the art inside with the cityscape outside.
The museum opened on April 26, 2008. It was born from a regional initiative to transform vacant land—left over from administrative restructuring in the early 2000s—into a vibrant cultural hub through the 'Arts Towada' project. The museum is not just a standalone building; it is part of a larger urban development where the entire town functions as a museum. With the 'Art Plaza' and various pieces of street furniture decorating the landscape, Towada has established itself as a renowned 'Art Town' recognized both in Japan and internationally.
The museum houses 38 permanent works by artists active both in Japan and abroad. Most of these are 'commissioned works'—pieces specifically created for this museum—and many are large-scale installations. You can see works by world-famous artists such as Yayoi Kusama and Ron Mueck placed strategically throughout the museum and its grounds. The layout ensures that every time you move between rooms, you encounter a new visual experience, where the architecture and the art become one.
The museum is generally open during the day (9:00–17:00). While the permanent collection is always available, the special exhibitions change depending on the season and event schedule. The 'cube cafe&shop' located within the facility is a perfect place to rest between exhibits. Please note that the cafe's last order is at 16:30, so plan your afternoon visit accordingly. For the best experience of the seamless connection between the indoor art and the outdoor scenery, visiting during bright daylight hours is highly recommended.
More than just viewing art, the primary experience here is the act of walking through a space where architecture and art merge. As you traverse the glass-walled corridors, you will witness the beautiful overlap of the outdoor landscape and the indoor artworks. The facility also includes a community space and a cafe, fostering a sense of art in everyday life. Visitors can truly feel the dynamic scale and unique worldviews of contemporary art through these immersive environments.
The area surrounding the museum is a part of the 'Arts Towada' project, meaning the entire cityscape is infused with artistic elements. Directly across from the museum is the 'Art Plaza,' where you can encounter art while walking through the streets. The central district of Towada City is also decorated with art-related street furniture, allowing you to use the museum as a base for a scenic, art-filled stroll through the town.
Because the museum covers a large area, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. When moving between exhibition rooms, please be mindful of your footing to enjoy the architectural experience safely.