Guida
The National Crafts Museum is located in the cultural zone near Kenrokuen Garden in the heart of Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture. It is a specialized museum dedicated to modern and contemporary crafts and design. The museum systematically collects and preserves craftworks from Japan and abroad, spanning from the late 19th century to the present day, serving as a vital hub for disseminating craft culture. The building itself is designed to harmonize with the surrounding historical landscape, allowing visitors to feel the cultural depth through both the exhibited works and the architectural design.
The museum's roots lie in the 'Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo,' located in Chiyoda, Tokyo. As part of a regional revitalization policy, it was relocated to Kanazawa, Ishikawa. While its name was officially changed to the 'National Crafts Museum' on April 1, 2021, it maintains its status as an integral part of the national museum network. Situated in Kanazawa—a city with a long-standing reputation for exquisite craftsmanship—the museum presents the historical context of how traditional Japanese handiwork evolves and integrates with modern design.
Exhibitions primarily consist of two formats: 'Collection Exhibitions' and 'Special/Project Exhibitions.' In the Collection Exhibitions, selected pieces from a vast collection of over 4,000 items—including ceramics, glass, lacquerware, woodworking, bamboo, textiles, dolls, metalwork, industrial design, and graphic design—are displayed. Approximately 100 pieces are showcased at a time, organized by specific themes or historical backgrounds. This allows visitors to observe the evolution of techniques and the unique expression of various materials in detail. Additionally, the Art Library holds specialized materials for researchers and enthusiasts seeking deeper knowledge.
The themes of the exhibited works vary depending on the season and the specific exhibition being held. During periods of 'Special Exhibitions' or 'Co-hosted Exhibitions,' visitors have the chance to encounter highly specialized and rare collections. Some programs, such as guided tours by volunteer docents, may also be conducted online or through specific schedules. It is recommended to check the official program in advance to enhance your understanding of the works.
The museum offers more than just viewing; it provides various educational programs. Workshops are available for families, including those with preschool children, in both in-person and online formats. The museum also organizes viewing programs for school groups, corporate workshops, and programs with English-language support, providing a rich learning environment through the lens of craftsmanship.
The National Crafts Museum is situated in the 'Kenrokuen Cultural Forest' area, where many of Kanazawa's major landmarks are concentrated. Within walking distance, you can visit Kenrokuen (one of Japan's three most beautiful gardens), the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art, and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa. This allows you to enjoy a seamless tour of both historical culture and cutting-edge contemporary art.
To protect the artworks and maintain a quiet environment, certain rules apply. While there is no strict dress code, comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you may stand for long periods. Regarding photography, please check the signage in each gallery, as restrictions apply to protect the works and copyrights. Touching the exhibits is strictly prohibited. For payments, credit cards and transit IC cards can be used for ticket purchases; please verify specific payment details at the venue. For the best experience, please respect the quiet atmosphere of the museum.