Discover the Ōta Memorial Museum of Art in Harajuku, Tokyo—home to 15,000 ukiyo-e prints by masters like Hokusai. Seasonal exhibitions, a museum shop, and exclusive souvenirs await.
- Escape Harajuku’s Buzz｜Find Calm at the Ōta Memorial Museum of Art
- Ōta Memorial Museum of Art｜A Tokyo Haven for Ukiyo-e Lovers
- Rotating Ukiyo-e Exhibitions｜Fresh Discoveries Every Season
- Ōta Museum Shop｜Souvenirs with Ukiyo-e Charm
- Kamawanu Harajuku｜Exclusive Tenugui & Japanese Accessories
- Ōta Memorial Museum of Art｜Why This Harajuku Spot is Unmissable
- Basic Information (Please check before visiting)
Escape Harajuku’s Buzz｜Find Calm at the Ōta Memorial Museum of Art
Discover the Beauty of Japan at the Ōta Memorial Museum of Art!
When you think of Harajuku in Tokyo, you probably picture fashion trends, youth culture, and cutting-edge street style. On weekends, the area bursts with energy as crowds fill the streets. But just a short stroll from the lively main avenues lies a serene, contemplative space: the Ōta Memorial Museum of Art. Here, it feels as if time slows down, offering a quiet escape from the city’s buzz.
Ōta Memorial Museum of Art｜A Tokyo Haven for Ukiyo-e Lovers
A Special Place to Immerse Yourself in Traditional Japanese Art
Founded in 1977 and relocated to its current Harajuku site in 1980, the Ōta Memorial Museum of Art is devoted exclusively to ukiyo-e, the iconic woodblock prints and paintings of Japan’s Edo to Meiji periods (1603–1912). Its collection includes around 15,000 works, from hand-painted scrolls to woodblock prints, featuring legendary artists like Katsushika Hokusai, whose The Great Wave off Kanagawa (Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji) draws visitors from all over the world.
Though modest in size, the museum’s traditional Japanese interior creates a calm atmosphere, perfect for appreciating each artwork up close.
For more on modern Japanese painting, see our Yamatane Museum of Art guide.
Rotating Ukiyo-e Exhibitions｜Fresh Discoveries Every Season
Unlike many museums, the Ōta Memorial Museum has no permanent exhibition. Instead, carefully curated displays change every one to two months, each organized around a theme. This means every visit offers a fresh perspective and new discoveries—whether it’s dramatic kabuki actor portraits, elegant bijin-ga (images of beautiful women), or landscapes reflecting Japan’s four seasons.
To preserve the vivid colors of centuries-old prints, lighting is kept soft. For those who love details, bringing a small magnifier or monocular can enhance the experience.
Ōta Museum Shop｜Souvenirs with Ukiyo-e Charm
Unique Souvenirs Inspired by Ukiyo-e
Before you leave, stop by the small museum shop near the entrance. You’ll find postcards, stickers, acrylic stands, and other goods featuring the museum’s collection. Some designs highlight the humor and playfulness often found in ukiyo-e, making for distinctive souvenirs that blend tradition with a touch of whimsy.
Kamawanu Harajuku｜Exclusive Tenugui & Japanese Accessories
In the basement, you’ll discover Kamawanu Harajuku, a shop specializing in tenugui—traditional Japanese cotton cloths once used as towels or wrapping cloths. Today, tenugui are popular as interior accents, fashion items, or unique gifts. Here, walls are lined with vibrant, artistic patterns, including designs you can only find at this Harajuku location. The shop also carries small Japanese accessories like chopstick rests, hand towels, and other items perfect for souvenirs.
Ōta Memorial Museum of Art｜Why This Harajuku Spot is Unmissable
A Peaceful Moment with Ukiyo-e in the Heart of Harajuku
The Ōta Memorial Museum of Art offers a rare combination of tranquility and beauty in the middle of bustling Harajuku. Whether it’s your first time in Japan or your fifth, you’ll likely discover something new and inspiring here. Take a break from the busy streets and immerse yourself in the timeless world of Ukiyo-e.
Basic Information (Please check before visiting)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Ōta Memorial Museum of Art |
| Address | 1-10-10 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0001 |
| Access | 5 min walk from JR Harajuku Station / 3 min walk from Meiji-Jingumae Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda & Fukutoshin lines) |
| Hours | 10:30 – 17:30 (last admission 17:00) |
| Closed | Mondays, exhibition changeover periods, year-end/New Year holidays |
| Admission | Varies by exhibition / Free for junior high school students and younger / Discounts available |
| Suggested Visit Time | Approx. 45–60 minutes |
| Official Website | https://www.ukiyoe-ota-muse.jp/ |
| Telephone | 050-5541-8600 (Hello Dial) |
| Notes | Reciprocal discounts with Yamatane Museum of Art and Toguri Museum of Art |
| Tip | Always check the official site for the latest exhibition details |
Please check the official website for the latest information.
