Akita Museum of Art
Tadao Ando Architecture Meets Foujita Masterworks
The Akita Museum of Art (officially Akita Prefectural Museum of Art) opened in September 2013 in a stunning triangular building designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, replacing the previous museum that had operated since 1967. The new museum's location on the waterfront facing Senshu Park creates a dramatic architectural dialogue between Ando's modernist concrete structure and the historic park surrounding the former Kubota Castle. The building's most distinctive feature is its spiral staircase rising through a triangular atrium, creating dynamic spatial experiences that have become iconic in architectural photography. The museum's opening revitalized Akita City's cultural district and established a new landmark visible across the city.
The museum's crown jewel is its collection of works by Léonard Tsuguharu Foujita (1886-1968), a Japanese-French artist who achieved fame in Paris during the 1920s. Born in Tokyo as Fujita Tsuguharu, he later became a French citizen and converted to Catholicism, taking the name Léonard. His connection to Akita stems from his commission to create the massive mural 'Events in Akita' (20.5 meters wide, 3.65 meters tall) in 1937, depicting seasonal festivals and customs of Akita Prefecture. This monumental work, along with over 250 other Foujita pieces in the collection, makes Akita Museum of Art the world's preeminent repository of the artist's works. Foujita's distinctive style blending Japanese and Western techniques found perfect expression in his Akita commissions.
Today, the museum attracts over 300,000 annual visitors who come for both the Foujita collection and Tadao Ando's architectural masterpiece. Beyond Foujita, the permanent collection includes approximately 3,000 works by Akita-born artists and pieces related to the prefecture's cultural heritage. The museum's waterside cafe, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Senshu Park, has become a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. Special exhibitions throughout the year bring international art to northern Tohoku. As a synthesis of world-class architecture, significant art holdings, and thoughtful urban integration, Akita Museum of Art represents Akita Prefecture's commitment to cultural excellence and regional vitality.
Key Highlights
- Tadao Ando's striking triangular concrete architecture completed 2013
- World's largest collection of Léonard Tsuguharu Foujita works
- Foujita's monumental 'Events in Akita' mural (20.5m x 3.65m)
- Iconic spiral staircase through triangular atrium
- Waterfront cafe with panoramic Senshu Park views
- Location adjacent to historic Kubota Castle ruins
Access Information
Location
1-4-2 Nakadori, Akita, Akita 010-0001, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • JR Akita Station (Akita Shinkansen, Ou Main Line) - 10 min walk
- • Kawabata Bus Stop - 3 min walk to museum
- • Akita Station West Exit - most direct walking route
Opening Hours
10:00-18:00 (last entry 17:30); Closed irregularly (check website), New Year period
Admission Fee
Permanent collection: Adults 310 yen, University students 210 yen, High school students and younger free; Special exhibitions: varies (typically 800-1,200 yen)
How to Get There
From JR Akita Station
Exit from West Exit and walk north along Nakadori Street towards the waterfront. The museum's distinctive triangular building becomes visible after 5 minutes. Cross the bridge over the moat to reach the museum entrance facing Senshu Park. Well-signed walking route.
10 minutes
From Akita Airport
Take Akita Airport Limousine Bus to Akita Station West Exit (35 minutes, 930 yen, buses timed to flight arrivals). Then walk 10 minutes to the museum. Alternatively, airport taxi directly to museum costs approximately 3,500 yen.
40 minutes
From Tokyo
Take JR Akita Shinkansen Komachi from Tokyo Station to Akita Station (3 hours 40 minutes), then walk 10 minutes to the museum. Shinkansen reserved seat costs approximately 17,500 yen one way. The museum makes an excellent stop when visiting Lake Tazawa or Kakunodate.
4 hours
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Tadao Ando Architecture
The building itself is a major artwork. The triangular floor plan and exposed concrete surfaces are signature Ando elements. The central spiral staircase rising through the triangular atrium creates stunning vertical perspectives—look both up and down. Natural light filtering through the glass roof changes the space throughout the day. Allow time to appreciate the architecture beyond the art.
Foujita's 'Events in Akita'
The museum's centerpiece is Foujita's massive 1937 mural depicting Akita's seasonal festivals and customs across a 20.5-meter canvas. The work has its own dedicated gallery for optimal viewing. Audio guides (available in English) provide detailed explanations of the scenes depicted, from Namahage rituals to Kanto Festival pole-balancing. This is the only place in the world to see this masterwork.
Photography Policy
Photography is generally prohibited inside exhibition galleries to protect artwork, though the iconic spiral staircase and public areas may be photographed. Check with staff for current policies. The museum exterior, especially from Senshu Park across the water, offers excellent architectural photography opportunities. Best exterior shots are during blue hour or when illuminated at night.
Museum Cafe & Shop
The second-floor cafe features floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of Senshu Park and the waterfront. Popular for coffee breaks and light meals. Reasonably priced lunch sets (900-1,200 yen). The museum shop sells Foujita-themed merchandise, art books, and local Akita crafts. Both cafe and shop are accessible without museum admission.
Senshu Park Combination
After visiting the museum, walk across the bridge to explore Senshu Park, site of the former Kubota Castle. The park features reconstructed castle gates, moats, and seasonal flowers. The hilltop observation deck offers views back to the museum. Combined museum and park visit takes 2-3 hours. Particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season (late April) and autumn foliage (early November).
Special Exhibitions
The museum hosts 3-4 major special exhibitions annually, often featuring international artists or significant Japanese collections. These require separate admission (800-1,200 yen) beyond the permanent collection fee. Check the official website before visiting to see current exhibitions. Weekend lectures and gallery talks occasionally accompany major shows.
Best Visit Times
Visit on weekday mornings (10-11 AM) for the quietest experience, especially important for appreciating the Foujita galleries without crowds. The cafe is less busy before noon. Autumn (October-November) brings peak visitor numbers due to foliage season. Allow 1-1.5 hours for permanent collection, add more time if special exhibitions are of interest.
Audio Guide & Information
English audio guides available for rent (500 yen) provide detailed commentary on Foujita's works and the building architecture. English pamphlets at the information desk offer exhibition overviews. Some gallery text includes English translations. The friendly staff can assist with basic English inquiries about the collection and building.
FAQ
What is the Akita Museum of Art known for?
The Akita Museum of Art is famous for housing works by Tsuguharu Foujita (Leonard Foujita), particularly his monumental 3.65m x 20.5m masterpiece 'Events in Akita.' The museum, designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, features a stunning triangular atrium and waterfront location. The collection focuses on Foujita's works alongside other Japanese and international artists with connections to Akita.
Who was Tsuguharu Foujita?
Tsuguharu Foujita (1886-1968) was a Japanese-French painter who achieved fame in Paris during the 1920s. Known for his distinctive style blending Japanese techniques with Western modernism, particularly his milky-white backgrounds. His large mural 'Events in Akita' was created for the Masakichi Hirano Art Museum and now forms the centerpiece of the Akita Museum of Art collection.
How much does admission cost?
Regular admission is 310 yen for adults, 210 yen for university students, and free for high school students and younger. Special exhibitions cost extra, typically 1,000-1,500 yen including the permanent collection. These prices make it one of the most affordable major art museums in Japan, offering excellent value for the quality of works displayed.
What are the museum's opening hours?
The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with last admission at 5:30 PM. It's closed on irregular days, so check the official website calendar before visiting. During special exhibitions, hours may be extended. The museum is typically open on national holidays but closed the following day.
How do I get to the Akita Museum of Art?
From JR Akita Station, walk about 10 minutes toward the Senshu Park area. The museum is located along the moat of the former Kubota Castle grounds. The distinctive modern triangular structure is easy to spot. Alternatively, take a local bus to the nearby Akita City Hall stop.
What makes Tadao Ando's architecture special at this museum?
Tadao Ando designed a dramatic triangular atrium rising 20 meters high with a grand spiral staircase and water feature reflecting natural light. The minimalist concrete and glass design creates contemplative spaces while the building's geometry optimally displays Foujita's massive mural. The architecture itself is considered an artwork, characteristic of Ando's sophisticated use of space and light.
How long should I spend at the museum?
A typical visit takes 1-1.5 hours to view the permanent collection including Foujita's works and explore the architectural spaces. Add 30-60 minutes if special exhibitions are showing. The museum cafe is worth additional time for its atmosphere overlooking the water feature. Art enthusiasts might spend 2+ hours appreciating the details.
Can I take photos inside the museum?
Photography policies vary by exhibition and artwork. Generally, flash photography and tripods are prohibited. The main Foujita mural typically allows non-flash photography, but always check signage and follow staff instructions. The architectural spaces, particularly the dramatic atrium and staircase, make for excellent photos where permitted.
Is the museum suitable for children?
While primarily an art museum for adults, families with older children interested in art will find value. The impressive architecture and large Foujita mural appeal to visual learners. The museum occasionally hosts family-oriented programs and workshops. Free admission for children makes it economical for families. Very young children may find it less engaging than more interactive museums.
Are there English explanations available?
Basic English descriptions are available for major works including the Foujita mural. Pamphlets and some signage include English text. Audio guides may be available in English. The visual nature of the art allows appreciation regardless of language, though deeper understanding benefits from Japanese language ability or advance research.
What other attractions are near the museum?
The museum is adjacent to Senshu Park, the site of Kubota Castle with reconstructed turret and gardens beautiful in all seasons. Nearby attractions include the Akita City Folk Art Museum, Kawabata Street's traditional buildings, and Akita Castle ruins. The Red Brick Building and Akita Station area shopping are within walking distance.
Does the museum have a cafe or restaurant?
Yes, the Museum Cafe offers coffee, tea, and light meals in a stylish space overlooking the water feature in Ando's dramatic atrium. The atmosphere makes it popular even among non-museum visitors. The menu includes sandwiches, pasta, desserts, and seasonal specials. The cafe can be accessed without museum admission.
When is the best time to visit?
Weekday mornings offer the quietest experience. Special exhibitions draw larger crowds but provide variety beyond the permanent collection. Combining with nearby Senshu Park is lovely during cherry blossom season (late April) or autumn foliage (early November). The museum's climate-controlled environment makes it ideal for rainy or hot summer days.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the modern facility is fully wheelchair accessible with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms. Wheelchairs can be borrowed at the entrance. The open gallery spaces and wide corridors facilitate easy navigation. The architectural design prioritizes accessibility without compromising aesthetics.
Can I visit as a day trip from Tokyo?
While possible, it's a long day trip. The Akita Shinkansen from Tokyo to Akita takes about 4 hours one way. Consider staying overnight in Akita to also visit Lake Tazawa, Kakunodate samurai district, or Oga Peninsula. Alternatively, combine the museum with other Akita city attractions for a more relaxed single-day visit.
What is 'Events in Akita' about?
Foujita's monumental mural 'Events in Akita' (1937) depicts annual festivals, customs, and daily life in Akita throughout the four seasons. The 20-meter-long work showcases traditional practices including rice planting, Kanto Festival performances, and winter activities. It's a cultural document as well as artistic masterpiece, celebrating regional identity through Foujita's distinctive style.
Are there special events or workshops at the museum?
Yes, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, artist talks, workshops, and educational programs. Gallery talks and guided tours help visitors understand the collections. Check the official website for current events. Annual programs might include children's art workshops, lecture series, and special viewing sessions during exhibitions.
Can I buy art-related souvenirs?
Yes, the museum shop sells exhibition catalogs, art books, postcards featuring Foujita's works, and original merchandise. You'll find high-quality reproductions, stationery, and locally-made crafts. The shop offers unique items related to both the permanent collection and special exhibitions. Some items can be purchased without museum admission.
What makes this museum different from other Japanese art museums?
The combination of Tadao Ando's award-winning architecture and the extensive Foujita collection makes it unique. Few museums worldwide have such comprehensive holdings of Foujita's work. The intimate scale compared to major urban museums creates a more contemplative experience. The focus on regional connections while maintaining international artistic standards distinguishes it from typical prefectural museums.
Should I visit the Akita Museum of Art or Senshu Park first?
Either order works, but visiting Senshu Park first allows outdoor exploration while weather permits, then enjoying the climate-controlled museum afterward. The park provides historical context about the Kubota domain that commissioned Foujita's work. Conversely, starting at the museum followed by park relaxation creates a cultural-to-nature progression. Allow 2-3 hours total for both.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Kakunodate Samurai District
A beautifully preserved samurai town featuring traditional black-walled samurai residences along tree-lined streets, offering an authentic glimpse into Edo-period warrior life in northern Japan.
Lake Tazawa
Japan's deepest lake at 423 meters, known for its stunning cobalt blue waters, legendary golden statue of Princess Tatsuko, and year-round ice-free surface.
Nyuto Onsen
A secluded hot spring village nestled in the mountains of Akita, featuring seven traditional ryokan with milky-white sulfur waters and pristine beech forest surroundings.
Yokote Kamakura Snow Festival
A 450-year-old winter tradition featuring hundreds of igloo-like snow houses where children serve amazake and mochi, creating one of Japan's most enchanting winter festivals.