Discover the Yamatane Museum of Art in Tokyo, Japan’s first museum dedicated to Japanese painting (Nihonga). Explore seasonal exhibitions, cultural beauty, and must-see art.
A short walk from Tokyo’s bustling districts of Shibuya, Harajuku, and Ebisu lies the serene neighborhood of Shoto. In this quiet residential area, you’ll find the Yamatane Museum of Art, Japan’s first museum dedicated exclusively to Nihonga (modern and contemporary Japanese painting).Since opening in 1966, the museum has built a collection of over 1,800 works, spanning from the Meiji era (late 19th century) to the present day. With no permanent exhibitions, it hosts 4–5 special exhibitions a year, ensuring that every visit offers a fresh encounter with Japanese art.
Introduction to Yamatane Museum of Art
The museum’s elegant entrance, steeped in traditional Japanese design, sets the tone for your visit. Purchase your ticket at the information and ticket counter, and store any large bags in the lockers nearby. Passing the tempting café sign featuring seasonal Japanese sweets, you’ll descend the stairs to the underground galleries.
The exhibition area is split into two wings around the museum shop: the First Gallery on the right and the Second Gallery on the left.
Seasonal Exhibitions: Nihonga and the Beauty of Japan’s Seasons
Through its thematic exhibitions, the museum showcases Japan’s changing seasons, natural beauty, and cultural traditions. In the hushed atmosphere, each painting becomes a gateway to a peaceful “mini-journey,” far from the city’s noise. Most works are displayed in the First Gallery, but the Second Gallery offers a smaller yet equally exquisite selection you won’t to miss.
The central museum shop is filled with art-inspired goods, making it feel like the “third gallery.”
Café Tsubaki: Sweets & Matcha Inspired by Art
On the first floor, Café Tsubaki serves original Japanese sweets inspired by current exhibitions. The lineup changes throughout the year, offering something new with every visit. Created by a long-established confectioner in Aoyama, these wagashi are as beautiful as they are delicious. Paired with matcha or sencha, they offer a sensory immersion into Japanese culture.
Light meals such as nyumen (warm thin noodles) are also available—perfect for enjoying a relaxed lunch or tea time after your museum visit.
Discounts with Nearby Museums for an Art Tour
The Yamatane Museum offers mutual discounts with the Ota Memorial Museum of Art (ukiyo-e) and the Toguri Museum of Art (ceramics). Until December 31, 2025, show your ticket to receive a discount of 100–200 yen. Both are within easy reach, making it ideal to plan a mini art museum tour and explore Japan’s artistic heritage more deeply.
Basic Information (Please check before visiting)
| (data) item | Contents |
| name | Yamatane Museum of Art |
| category | Art Museum – Modern & Contemporary Japanese Painting |
| Location | 3-12-36 Hiroo, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo |
| Access | 10 min walk from JR Ebisu Station or Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line Ebisu Station. From Ebisu Station West Exit, take Toei Bus (Route Gaku 06) to “Hiroo Koen-mae” (1 min walk). From Shibuya Station East Exit, take Toei Bus (Route Gaku 03) to “Higashi 4-chome” (2 min walk). |
| Business Hours | 10:00-17:00 (last admission 16:30) |
| regular closing day | Mondays (next weekday if Monday is a holiday), exhibition changeover periods, New Year holidays |
| admission fee | Varies by exhibition (Adults: approx. ¥1,200–¥1,600) |
| Approximate time required | Approx. 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Official Site | https://www.yamatane-museum.jp/ |
| Phone number | 03-5777-8600 (Hello Dial) |
| remarks | Discount available with Ota Memorial Museum of Art & Toguri Museum of Art |
For the latest exhibition schedules and visitor information, please check the official website.
