Japan is a treasure trove of art and culture, offering an array of experiences for art enthusiasts. Our Director of Operations, Karol Contreras, recently visited Japan with her family, uncovering incredible art destinations across the Japanese islands. Here, she shares some must-visit spots and tips for making the most of your art-filled journey in Japan.
Japan Travel Tips by Art Market Liaison:
- Plan Ahead: Research the museums and exhibitions you want to visit and check their schedules and ticketing policies. Many museums, like the Yayoi Kusama Museum, require advance booking.
- Transport Logistics: Japan’s transportation system is efficient but can be complex. Plan your travel routes, including ferry schedules if you’re visiting islands like Naoshima. Keep a backup plan in case you miss a scheduled transport (you’ll understand why soon!)
- Respect the Rules: Many museums in Japan have strict rules regarding photography and touching the artwork. Respect these guidelines to ensure a pleasant experience for yourself and others.
- Local Cuisine: Take breaks to enjoy Japan’s exquisite cuisine. Many art sites have lovely cafes where you can rest and reflect on the art you’ve seen.
- Learn Japanese – or download an app: Google Translate is definitely a great travel companion in Japan, where not many people speak fluent English. While you might not pick-up Japanese ahead of your trip, it is worth learning a few helpful phrases or downloading an app to help you get around. We loved Waygo, which allows you to write or “draw” Japanese characters onto the screen. You can also hold your phone up to a set of words and the app will render a translation.
- Cultural Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with Japanese cultural etiquette, such as bowing, removing shoes before entering certain areas, and being quiet in museums.
Our Art Highlights:
Yayoi Kusama Museum, Tokyo
The Yayoi Kusama Museum in Tokyo is a must-see for fans of contemporary art. Known for her polka-dotted creations and infinity rooms, Kusama’s work is both mesmerizing and thought-provoking. Despite its Instagram-worthy appeal, please note that photography is not allowed in the current exhibition, so be prepared to fully immerse yourself in the experience without your camera.
Naoshima Island: The Art Island
Naoshima Island, often referred to as the “Art Island,” is a unique destination where art and nature harmoniously coexist. Part of Kagawa Prefecture, the island is known for its contemporary art museums, architecture, and public sculptures.
Much of Naoshima’s art was installed by the Benesse Corporation, which oversees artwork displays both on Naoshima and its neighboring islands The first thing you’ll encounter when arriving on the island is Yayoi Kusama’s iconic pumpkin, which sits by the ferry terminal. Other attractions on the island include the Lee Ufan Museum, the Benesse House Museum designed by the well-known Japanese architect Ando Tadao, the Hiroshi Sugimoto Gallery, and the Chichu Art Museum, which houses a particular gem – a collection of Claude Monet paintings.
The island offers various art installations and museums, making it a paradise for art lovers. Although, a gentle reminder to always check ferry times! Karol and her family had an adventurous late-night speedboat ride – James Bond-style – after missing the last ferry.
Aomori Museum of Art
Based in the hometown of one of Art Market Liasion’s favorite artists, Yoshitomo Nara, the Aomori Museum of Art offers a permanent exhibition of Nara’s works, capturing the essence of contemporary Japanese art. The museum also features a surprising collection of works by Marc Chagall, which is not to miss!
