Towada Art Center
Contemporary Art Museum Transforming a Regional City
Towada Art Center opened in April 2008 as the centerpiece of the ambitious Arts Towada project, an urban revitalization initiative aimed at transforming Towada City through contemporary art and architecture. Designed by renowned architect Ryue Nishizawa (winner of the Pritzker Prize for his work with SANAA), the museum's revolutionary design features 16 individual white cube pavilions of varying sizes connected by glass corridors, creating a porous structure that blurs boundaries between art, architecture, and the surrounding city. This radical approach to museum design won international acclaim and positioned Towada Art Center as a model for regional cultural development in post-bubble Japan.
The museum's permanent collection was carefully curated from its inception to feature site-specific installations created expressly for Towada Art Center by leading contemporary artists from around the world. Notable works include Yayoi Kusama's iconic 'Love Forever, Singing in Towada,' Yoshitomo Nara's massive 'Night Blanket,' and Ron Mueck's hyperrealistic sculptures. The outdoor Art Square extends the museum experience into the streetscape with monumental works by artists including Choi Jeong Hwa's colorful 'Flower Horse' and Inges Idee's 'Standing Woman.' This integration of art into public space revitalized the formerly quiet Kanchogai Street, transforming it into a vibrant cultural corridor.
Since its opening, Towada Art Center has attracted over 2 million visitors and become a catalyst for regional transformation, inspiring the opening of galleries, cafes, and shops along the Arts Towada street. The museum's success demonstrates how contemporary art and innovative architecture can revitalize regional cities facing population decline. The center's education programs engage local schools and communities, making contemporary art accessible to audiences who might otherwise never encounter it. As a pioneering example of art-led urban regeneration in rural Japan, Towada Art Center has influenced cultural policy nationwide and established Towada City as an unexpected contemporary art destination in northern Tohoku.
Key Highlights
- Ryue Nishizawa's acclaimed architectural design of interconnected pavilions
- Permanent collection of site-specific works by world-renowned artists
- Yayoi Kusama's mesmerizing 'Love Forever, Singing in Towada' infinity room
- Outdoor Art Square integrating sculptures into urban streetscape
- Catalyst for Arts Towada district revitalization project
- Over 2 million visitors since 2008 opening
Access Information
Location
10-9 Nishi-Nibancho, Towada, Aomori 034-0082, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • JR Shichinohe-Towada Station (Tohoku Shinkansen) - 30 min by bus
- • JR Misawa Station (Aoimori Railway) - 40 min by bus
- • Towada City Kanko Koryukan Bus Stop - 3 min walk
Opening Hours
9:00-17:00 (last entry 16:30); Closed Mondays (or following day if Monday is a national holiday), December 28-January 1
Admission Fee
Adults 1,200 yen, University students 800 yen, High school students and younger free; Special exhibitions may have different pricing
How to Get There
From JR Shichinohe-Towada Station
Take the Towada Kanko Electric Railway bus from the station to Towada City center. Alight at 'Towada-shi Gendai Bijutsukan Mae' (Towada Art Center) bus stop. Buses operate roughly hourly. Fare 700 yen one way. The art center is visible from the bus stop.
30 minutes
From Aomori City
Take JR Bus Oirase-gou from Aomori Station to Towada City (80 minutes, fare 1,850 yen). Alight at 'Kancho-gai' bus stop, then 5-minute walk to the art center. Buses run 4-5 times daily. Check schedule in advance as service is limited.
90 minutes
From Tokyo
Take JR Tohoku Shinkansen Hayabusa from Tokyo to Shichinohe-Towada Station (3 hours), then local bus to Towada Art Center (30 minutes). Total cost approximately 17,000 yen one way. Consider JR East Pass for savings if visiting multiple Tohoku destinations.
3.5 hours
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Architectural Experience
Ryue Nishizawa's design of 16 interconnected white pavilions is itself a major artwork. The varying sizes and heights create dynamic spatial experiences. Glass corridors frame views between indoor and outdoor spaces. Allow time to appreciate how the architecture shapes your encounter with the art. Photography of the building exterior is encouraged.
Must-See Artworks
Yayoi Kusama's infinity mirror room 'Love Forever, Singing in Towada' is the museum's most popular work—visit early to avoid queues. Yoshitomo Nara's 'Night Blanket' fills an entire pavilion. Ron Mueck's hyperrealistic sculptures are mesmerizing. Each work was created specifically for its pavilion, making this a unique collection you cannot see elsewhere.
Photography Policy
Photography is permitted in most areas for personal use, but flash photography and tripods are prohibited. Some special exhibitions may restrict photography. The Kusama infinity room has a 2-minute time limit during busy periods. Outdoor Art Square works are freely photographable. The colorful 'Flower Horse' is particularly Instagram-worthy.
Art Square Outdoor Works
The outdoor Art Square along Kanchogai Street features monumental sculptures integrated into the urban environment. The works are accessible 24/7 free of charge. Notable pieces include Choi Jeong Hwa's vibrant 'Flower Horse,' Inges Idee's 'Standing Woman,' and other large-scale installations. Evening illumination creates different atmospheres for night photography.
Museum Cafe & Shop
The museum cafe offers light meals, coffee, and desserts in a bright space overlooking the Art Square. The museum shop sells exclusive artist merchandise, design items, and art books. Both are accessible without museum admission. The shop features works by Yoshitomo Nara and other exhibited artists not available elsewhere.
Special Exhibitions & Events
The museum hosts 2-3 special exhibitions annually featuring contemporary artists and thematic shows. Check the official website for current exhibitions. Weekend workshops and artist talks occasionally offer deeper engagement opportunities. The annual Towada Art Night event in autumn features extended hours and special programming.
Recommended Visit Duration
Allow 1.5-2 hours to view the permanent collection thoroughly. Add 30-60 minutes if special exhibitions are running. Visit on weekday mornings (9-11 AM) for the most intimate experience with major works. The museum can be crowded on weekends and during the autumn foliage season (mid-October to early November).
Arts Towada District
After visiting the museum, explore the revitalized Kanchogai Street and surrounding Arts Towada area. Several galleries, craft shops, and cafes have opened inspired by the art center. The district comes alive in summer with outdoor events. Pick up the Arts Towada walking map at the information desk for a self-guided tour.
FAQ
What is the Towada Art Center?
The Towada Art Center is a contemporary art museum featuring permanent installations by renowned international and Japanese artists. Opened in 2008 as part of Towada's urban revitalization, the museum's distinctive white cube architecture integrates indoor galleries with outdoor spaces, creating an interactive art experience throughout the building and surrounding Arts Towada streets.
What are the most famous artworks at Towada Art Center?
The most iconic work is Yayoi Kusama's 'Love Forever, Singing in Towada,' featuring her signature polka-dot pumpkin sculptures. Other highlights include Yoshitomo Nara's 'Night Walker,' a giant dog sculpture, Ron Mueck's hyperrealistic 'Standing Woman,' and works by international artists like Anish Kapoor and Do Ho Suh. The collection spans 40+ permanent installations.
How much does admission cost?
Regular admission is 1,200 yen for adults. University and high school students pay 800 yen, while junior high school students and younger enter free. Special exhibitions may have different pricing. Combination tickets with other nearby attractions may be available. The outdoor art along Arts Towada street is free to view.
How long should I spend at the Towada Art Center?
A thorough visit takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours to view the permanent collection and explore both indoor galleries and outdoor spaces. Art enthusiasts may spend longer contemplating the installations. Add extra time if special exhibitions are showing. Combining with the free outdoor art along Arts Towada street makes for a half-day cultural experience.
When is the Towada Art Center open?
The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry at 4:30 PM. It's closed on Mondays (or the following Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday) and from December 27 to January 1. Always check the official website before visiting as hours may vary for special events or exhibitions.
How do I get to Towada Art Center from Tokyo?
Take the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Hachinohe Station (about 3 hours), then transfer to the JR Bus Oirase-gogo Line to Towada Art Center stop (about 1 hour). Total journey takes approximately 4-5 hours. Alternatively, fly to Misawa Airport or Aomori Airport and take connecting buses to Towada City.
Is photography allowed inside the museum?
Photography policies vary by artwork. Some installations allow non-flash photography while others prohibit it entirely. Clear signage indicates where photography is permitted. Always check before taking photos. The outdoor artworks along Arts Towada street are generally photography-friendly, making for great social media posts.
What is Arts Towada?
Arts Towada is the streetscape project surrounding the art center, featuring multiple outdoor artworks and installations along a 1.1-kilometer stretch of road. These free, accessible works create an 'open-air museum' integrating contemporary art into the urban environment. It's become a symbol of Towada's cultural revitalization and is accessible 24/7.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes, children often enjoy the colorful and whimsical nature of many installations, particularly Kusama's polka dots and Nara's giant dog. The interactive nature of some spaces appeals to young visitors. However, parents should supervise children carefully as some artworks are delicate. Special family programs and workshops are occasionally offered.
Are there English explanations available?
Yes, the museum provides English information for major artworks through pamphlets and labels. Audio guides in English may be available for rent. The distinctive visual nature of the installations means much can be appreciated without extensive text. Staff at the information desk may have limited English but are helpful.
What makes the Towada Art Center architecture special?
Designed by architect Ryue Nishizawa (SANAA), the building consists of 16 connected white cube structures of varying sizes and heights. This modular design creates diverse gallery spaces while blurring boundaries between interior and exterior. The architecture itself is considered an artwork, with glass corridors and courtyards integrating nature and art.
Can I visit as a day trip from Aomori City?
Yes, Towada is about 90 minutes from Aomori City by JR bus. A day trip is feasible, allowing several hours at the art center and lunch in Towada before returning. Alternatively, combine it with Lake Towada (another 50 minutes by bus) for a full day exploring the region's art and natural beauty.
Are there restaurants or cafes near the museum?
Yes, the museum has a cafe called Cube Cafe serving light meals, coffee, and desserts in a stylish setting. Nearby along Arts Towada street, you'll find several cafes and restaurants. Towada City center, a short walk away, offers more dining options including local specialties like Towada Barayaki (rose pork and onions).
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the museum is fully wheelchair accessible with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms throughout. Wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge. The open, modern design facilitates easy navigation. The outdoor Arts Towada area is also accessible, though some sidewalks may have slight inclines.
What other attractions are in Towada City?
Besides the Art Center, visit Lake Towada (about 50 minutes by bus), a stunning caldera lake with hiking and boat tours. Oirase Stream offers scenic riverside hiking through forests and waterfalls. The Komaki Onsen area provides relaxing hot springs. Towada City itself features local museums and the regional specialty dish, Towada Barayaki.
When is the best time to visit Towada Art Center?
The museum is excellent year-round, but combining with seasonal outdoor attractions varies the experience. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for enjoying the outdoor art. Summer allows combining with Lake Towada activities. Winter showcases the white architecture against snow. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. Special exhibitions add variety throughout the year.
Can I buy art-related souvenirs?
Yes, the museum shop sells exhibition catalogs, art books, postcards, and merchandise featuring works from the collection, including Kusama and Nara-themed items. You'll find unique gifts not available elsewhere, including locally-made crafts inspired by the collection. The shop is accessible without museum admission.
Are there special exhibitions in addition to the permanent collection?
Yes, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions featuring contemporary artists, thematic shows, and special projects. These change several times per year, providing reasons for repeat visits. Check the official website for current and upcoming exhibitions. Special exhibition admission may cost extra beyond the regular entrance fee.
Why was the art center built in Towada?
The Towada Art Center was created as part of an urban revitalization project to attract visitors and inject cultural vitality into the declining regional city. By investing in contemporary art and innovative architecture, Towada successfully transformed its identity, becoming a cultural destination and model for art-led regional development in Japan.
Can I combine visiting the art center with Lake Towada?
Yes, and this is highly recommended for a full day or overnight trip. From Towada Art Center, take the JR bus to Lake Towada (about 50 minutes). The lake offers different scenery depending on season—autumn foliage is spectacular. Consider staying overnight in the Lake Towada area to fully enjoy both the cultural and natural attractions without rushing.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Hasshoku Center Market
A vibrant seafood market where visitors create their own kaisendon (seafood rice bowls) by purchasing ingredients from dozens of stalls, offering a hands-on taste of Aomori's fishing culture.
Hirosaki Castle
One of Japan's twelve surviving original castles, famous for its spectacular cherry blossom festival featuring over 2,600 cherry trees reflected in moat waters beneath the castle tower.
Hirosaki Park Cherry Blossoms
One of Japan's top three cherry blossom viewing sites, featuring 2,600 sakura trees surrounding historic Hirosaki Castle, with spectacular moat reflections and night illuminations.
Lake Towada
A stunning caldera lake straddling Aomori and Akita prefectures, famous for crystal-clear blue waters, scenic boat cruises, and autumn foliage surrounding volcanic peaks.
Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse
An interactive museum showcasing the spectacular illuminated floats from Aomori's famous Nebuta Festival, allowing year-round experience of this dynamic summer tradition.
Oirase Gorge
A pristine 14-kilometer mountain stream flowing through moss-covered forests, featuring dozens of waterfalls, crystal-clear waters, and Japan's most celebrated autumn foliage.