Tokyo Art Gallery TOP20 List! From Classics to Niche, the Ultimate Guide for Art Lovers!

Tokyo is dotted with many captivating art galleries, offering a wealth of must-visit spots for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Based on a survey conducted by CM Site Co., Ltd., we present the "Top 20 Most Desired Tokyo Art Galleries to Visit."

Table of Contents show

20th Place: Mitsui Memorial Museum / Nihonbashi

Located in a historic Nihonbashi building, the "Mitsui Memorial Museum" ranks 20th. It showcases Japanese and East Asian art collected by the Mitsui family, renowned for the Mitsui Group, with a collection dating back to the Edo period.

While predominantly featuring tea utensils, the museum houses 6 National Treasures (e.g., National Treasure "Shino Tea Bowl, Inscribed Uohana Wall," National Treasure "Snow Pine Folding Screen") and 75 Important Cultural Properties. Visitors can savor these art treasures in a serene atmosphere.

Mitsui Memorial Museum (三井記念美術館)
Address: 7F Mitsui Main Building, 2-1-1 Nihonbashi Muromachi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Access: Mitsukoshimae Station
Admission: Adults 1,200 yen / High school & university students 700 yen / Free for junior high school students and younger
Hours: 10:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30)
Closed: Mondays
Website: https://www.mitsui-museum.jp/

19th Place: Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum / Marunouchi

Ranking 19th, the "Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum" is a restored Meiji-era building with a distinctive red-brick exterior.

It houses late 19th-century Western art from the same period as the building, including works by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Odilon Redon, and Félix Vallotton, making it particularly popular among female visitors.

Accessible by foot from Tokyo Station, it’s an ideal stop for sightseeing in the Marunouchi area.

Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum (三菱一号館美術館)
Address: 2-6-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Access: Tokyo Station
Admission: Varies by exhibition
Hours: 10:00–18:00 (extended to 20:00 on Fridays, the second Wednesday of each month, and the final week of special exhibitions; last entry 30 minutes prior)
Closed: Mondays, year-end/New Year holidays, during exhibition changes
Website: https://mimt.jp/

18th Place: Nezu Museum / Minami-Aoyama

Famous for East Asian antiquities, the "Nezu Museum" in Minami-Aoyama is surrounded by a bamboo grove and Japanese garden, harmonizing with Kengo Kuma’s architectural design to create a tranquil, healing atmosphere.

The museum primarily displays Buddhist statues, calligraphy, and tea utensils, ideal for visitors seeking a deep dive into Japanese culture. Its collection of 7,630 items includes 7 National Treasures, 92 IMPORTANT Cultural Properties, and 95 Important Art Objects, boasting an impressive lineup.

Nezu Museum (根津美術館)
Address: 6-5-1 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access: Omotesando Station
Admission:
Special Exhibitions: Adults 1,600 yen and up / High school students and above 1,300 yen and up / Free for junior high school students and younger
Planned Exhibitions: Adults 1,400 yen and up / High school students and above 1,100 yen and up / Free for junior high school students and younger
Hours: 10:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30)
Closed: Mondays
Website: https://www.nezu-muse.or.jp/

17th Place: 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT / Tokyo Midtown

The unique design-focused museum "21_21 DESIGN SIGHT" ranks 17th.

Designed by architect Tadao Ando, 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT itself is a work of art. Its popular exhibitions focus on "everyday life and design," with regular lectures and workshops offering fresh experiences for visitors.

21_21 DESIGN SIGHT
Address: Tokyo Midtown Garden, 9-7-6 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access: Roppongi Station / Nogizaka Station
Admission: Adults 1,600 yen / University students 800 yen / High school students 500 yen / Free for junior high school students and younger
Hours: 10:00–19:00 (last entry 18:30)
Closed: Tuesdays, year-end/New Year holidays (12/27–1/3), during exhibition changes
Website: https://www.2121designsight.jp/

16th Place: Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo / Kiyosumi-Shirakawa

Ranking 16th, the "Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo" in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa is a contemporary art landmark, opened in March 1995 to promote modern art.

In addition to hosting cutting-edge exhibitions from Japan and abroad, its permanent collection is extensive. The museum also features a café and library, perfect for an immersive art experience.

Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (東京都現代美術館)
Address: 4-1-1 Miyoshi, Koto-ku, Tokyo (inside Kiba Park)
Access: Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station
Admission: Varies by exhibition
Hours: 10:00–18:00 (last entry 17:30)
Closed: Mondays, year-end/New Year holidays, during exhibition changes
Website: https://www.mot-art-museum.jp/

15th Place: Mori Art Museum / Roppongi Hills

Located on the upper floors of Roppongi Hills, the "Mori Art Museum" is a contemporary art museum.

It regularly hosts exhibitions by international artists, attracting visitors with unique perspectives on themes like cities, architecture, and society, blending artistry with educational value. Combination tickets with the observation deck in the same building are also popular, making it worth a visit.

Mori Art Museum (森美術館)
Address: 53F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access: Roppongi Station
Admission:
Weekdays: Adults 1,800 yen and up / High school & university students 1,300 yen and up / Free for junior high school students and younger / 65 and older 1,500 yen and up
Weekends & Holidays: Adults 2,000 yen and up / High school & university students 1,500 yen and up / Free for junior high school students and younger / 65 and older 1,700 yen and up
Hours: Mon, Wed–Sun 10:00–22:00 (last entry 21:30) / Tue 10:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30)
Website: https://www.mori.art.museum/

14th Place: Yayoi Kusama Museum / Shinjuku

Ranking 14th, the avant-garde artist "Yayoi Kusama" has her dedicated museum. Operating on a reservation system, it features a high-density art space filled with her iconic polka dots and pumpkin motifs.

The museum aims to convey Kusama’s ideals of world peace and human love while promoting contemporary art. Visitors can immerse themselves in her one-of-a-kind fantastical world.

Yayoi Kusama Museum (草間彌生美術館)
Address: 107 Bentencho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Access: Ushigome-Yanagicho Station
Admission: Adults 1,100 yen / Junior high & elementary school students 600 yen / Free for preschool children
Hours: 11:00–17:30
Closed: Monday to Wednesday
Website: https://yayoikusamamuseum.jp/

13th Place: SOMPO Museum of Art / Shinjuku

An art landmark in Shinjuku, the "SOMPO Museum of Art" is renowned for housing Van Gogh’s "Sunflowers" (the only authentic piece in Asia).

Founded by an insurance company to give back to society, this museum now attracts art lovers with its Western masterpieces and distinctive special exhibitions.

SOMPO Museum of Art (SOMPO美術館)
Address: 1-26-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Access: Shinjuku Station
Admission: 26 and older 1,700 yen and up / 25 and younger 1,100 yen / Free for junior high school students and younger
Hours: 10:00–18:00
Closed: Mondays (except holidays), year-end/New Year holidays, during exhibition changes
Website: https://www.sompo-museum.org/

12th Place: Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum / Ueno

Nicknamed "Tobikan," the "Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum" ranks 12th and is Japan’s first public art museum.

As a hub for art and culture, it hosts large-scale international and domestic exhibitions and showcases the "Tokyo Metropolitan Collection" series (highlights from metropolitan institutions), covering diverse art forms.

Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum (東京都美術館)
Address: 8-36 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Access: Ueno Station
Admission: Varies by exhibition
Hours: 9:30–17:30 (last entry 17:00)
Closed: First and third Mondays of each month (postponed if a holiday), year-end/New Year holidays, maintenance periods
Website: https://www.tobikan.jp/

11th Place: Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum / Shirokanedai

Converted from the former Asaka Palace, the "Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum" is an Art Deco-style building. In 2015, its main building, main gate, and tea room were designated as National Important Cultural Properties.

The beautiful garden, substantial architecture, and curated special exhibitions complement each other perfectly. Even a visit just to admire the architectural details is worthwhile.

Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum (東京都庭園美術館)
Address: 5-21-9 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access: Shirokanedai Station / Meguro Station
Admission: Adults 200 yen / University students 160 yen / High school students & 65 and older 100 yen
Hours: 10:00–18:00 (last entry 17:30)
Closed: Mondays, year-end/New Year holidays
Website: https://www.teien-art-museum.ne.jp/

10th Place: Ueno Royal Museum / Ueno

Located in Ueno Park, the "Ueno Royal Museum" is known for hosting exhibitions with diverse themes, showcasing everything from Important Cultural Properties to cross-disciplinary works.

While it lacks a permanent collection, its special exhibitions featuring contemporary art, manga, prints, and ukiyo-e draw significant attention.

Ueno Royal Museum (上野の森美術館)
Address: 1-2 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Access: Ueno Station
Admission: Varies by exhibition
Hours: 10:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30)
Closed: Irregular closures
Website: https://www.ueno-mori.org/

9th Place: Tokyo Station Gallery / Tokyo Station

Ranking 9th, the "Tokyo Station Gallery" is located within Tokyo Station, born from the concept of transforming the station into more than just a transit point but a refined cultural venue.

Here, visitors can experience the fusion of historic architecture and modern art, making it a favorite among railway enthusiasts and architecture lovers. Its eclectic special exhibitions are also a major highlight.

Tokyo Station Gallery (東京ステーションギャラリー)
Address: 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Access: Tokyo Station
Admission: Varies by exhibition
Hours: 10:00–18:00 / Extended to 20:00 on Fridays
Closed: Mondays, year-end/New Year holidays, during exhibition changes
Website: https://www.ejrcf.or.jp/gallery/

8th Place: Chihiro Art Museum Tokyo / Shakujii

Ranking 8th, the "Chihiro Art Museum Tokyo" showcases the warm works of picture book artist Chihiro Iwasaki, making it the world’s first picture book museum.

Enjoyable for both children and adults, the museum displays original picture book illustrations and hosts unique exhibitions. The nature-surrounded building fosters a serene art experience.

Chihiro Art Museum Tokyo (ちひろ美術館・東京)
Address: 4-7-2 Shimo-Shakujii, Nerima-ku, Tokyo
Access: Kami-Igusa Station
Admission: Adults 1,200 yen / Free for those 18 and younger
Hours: 10:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30)
Closed: Mondays (postponed if a holiday), year-end/New Year holidays, winter closure, during exhibition changes
Website: https://www.chihiro.jp/tokyo/

7th Place: The National Art Center, Tokyo / Roppongi

The "National Art Center, Tokyo" stands out for its striking exterior, designed with the concept of a "museum in a forest," offering distinct seasonal views.

Without a permanent exhibition hall, it introduces works by domestic and international artists through rotating special exhibitions, a unique approach.

The National Art Center, Tokyo (国立新美術館)
Address: 7-22-2 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access: Nogizaka Station
Admission: Varies by exhibition/art group
Hours: 10:00–18:00 (last entry 17:30)
Closed: Tuesdays (postponed if a holiday)
Website: https://www.nact.jp/

6th Place: Sumida Hokusai Museum / Ryogoku

Built to honor ukiyo-e master Katsushika Hokusai, the "Sumida Hokusai Museum" near Ryogoku Station is dedicated to his works.

The permanent exhibition includes Hokusai’s hand-painted work at age 86, "The Painting of Susanoo-no-Mikoto Defeating the Evil Gods," and details of his life, alongside various themed special exhibitions.

Sumida Hokusai Museum (すみだ北斎美術館)
Address: 2-7-2 Kamezawa, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
Access: Ryogoku Station
Admission: Adults 400 yen / High school & university students 300 yen / 65 and older 300 yen / Free for junior high school students and younger
Hours: 9:30–17:30 (last entry 17:00)
Closed: Mondays (postponed if a holiday), year-end/New Year holidays (12/29–1/3)
Website: https://hokusai-museum.jp/

5th Place: Suntory Museum of Art / Tokyo Midtown

Located in Roppongi’s Tokyo Midtown, the "Suntory Museum of Art" takes 5th place. With the theme of "beauty in everyday life," it houses around 3,000 artworks, including Japanese National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties like paintings and ceramics, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern Japan.

Beyond its precious collection, the museum’s comfortable Japanese-modern spatial design is also highly appreciated by visitors.

Suntory Museum of Art (サントリー美術館)
Address: Tokyo Midtown Galleria 3F, 9-7-4 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Access: Roppongi Station
Admission: Varies by exhibition / Free for junior high school students and younger
Hours: 10:00–18:00 (extended to 20:00 on Fridays, last entry 30 minutes before closing)
Closed: Tuesdays, year-end/New Year holidays, during exhibition changes
Website: https://www.suntory.co.jp/sma/

4th Place: Takao Trick Art Museum / Mount Takao

The "Takao Trick Art Museum," located at the lush foothills of Mount Takao, displays "trick art" that plays with visual illusions, offering fun for both children and adults.

All exhibits allow photography, so dive into the trick art and capture fun, magical photos!

Takao Trick Art Museum (高尾山トリックアート美術館)
Address: 1786 Takao-machi, Hachioji-shi, Tokyo
Access: Takaosanguchi Station
Admission: Adults 1,550 yen / Junior high & high school students 1,150 yen / Elementary school students 800 yen / Children 4 and older 600 yen
Hours: April–November 10:00–18:00; December–March 10:00–17:00
Closed: Thursdays
Website: https://www.trickart.jp/

3rd Place: The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo / Takebashi

Near Takebashi Station, "The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo" is Japan’s first national art museum, housing modern and contemporary art from the late 19th century to the present.

As Japan’s largest-scale museum, it holds about 13,000 works, with the "MOMAT Collection" exhibition regularly showcasing around 200 carefully selected pieces.

The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo (東京国立近代美術館)
Address: 3-1 Kitanomaru Koen, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Access: Takebashi Station
Admission: Varies by special exhibition
Hours: 10:00–17:00 (extended to 20:00 on Fridays and Saturdays)
Closed: Mondays (postponed if a holiday), year-end/New Year holidays, during exhibition changes
Website: https://www.momat.go.jp/

2nd Place: National Museum of Western Art / Ueno

Located in Ueno Park, the "National Museum of Western Art" is a national museum dedicated to Western art. Its permanent collection includes Western paintings from the late Middle Ages to the early 20th century, as well as Rodin sculptures.

The highlight is the main building, designed by Le Corbusier, which is designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Why not visit this sacred place that combines the value of both a museum and a world heritage site?

National Museum of Western Art (国立西洋美術館)
Address: 7-7 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Access: Ueno Station
Admission: Adults ¥500 / University students ¥250
Hours: 9:30 AM–5:30 PM (extended to 8:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays)
Closed: Mondays (postponed if a holiday), December 28–January 1
Website: https://www.nmwa.go.jp/

1st Place: Ghibli Museum, Mitaka / Mitaka

A must-visit for Ghibli fans, the "Ghibli Museum, Mitaka" tops the list of Tokyo museums! This is a dreamy place to immerse yourself in the world of director Hayao Miyazaki's works.

The museum features a theater screening original short films and exhibition areas showcasing Ghibli characters and art designs. In 2025, the third part of the "The Boy and the Heron" exhibition, "Background Art Edition," will be held, delving into the charm of background art.

Ghibli Museum, Mitaka (三鷹の森ジブリ美術館)
Address: 1-1-83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo (inside Inokashira Park West Garden)
Access: Mitaka Station
Admission: Adults/University students ¥1,000 / High school/Junior high students ¥700 / Elementary students ¥400 / Children aged 4 and above ¥100
Hours: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM)
Open Days: https://l-tike.com/ghibli/calendar/
Website: https://www.ghibli-museum.jp/

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