The National Art Centre Tokyo in Roppongi is one of the largest exhibition venues in Japan. It holds a rotating roster of temporary art and design exhibitions across the year in its 12 gallery spaces.
Opened in 2007, the Kisho Kurokawa designed building is an architectural marvel, featuring an expansive facade of curvy glass walls. The lofty foyer atrium features huge conical concrete structures rising out of the floor.
The exhibitions showing at any given time vary in size and scale, with blockbuster local and international art shows held alongside others by local and community art collectives. You usually have to pay to enter the larger exhibitions, while some of the community shows are free. Combination tickets are often available that allow you to access multiple shows on the same day for a discounted price. Note that the ticket booth is located outside the main building.
If you’re not interested in the art, the National Art Centre Tokyo is worth visiting for the building itself, for a bite to eat or for some shopping. Access to the foyer and the common areas is free and there are several casual dining options available throughout. In edition, there’s an impressive art and design store on the basement level that is nice for a browse.
Address: 7-22-2 Roppongi Minato-ku Tokyo
Getting there: Direct walking access from Nogizaka Station Exit 6 (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line)
Nearby: Chinese Cafe Eight, Mori Art Museum, Tokyo City View, 21 21 Design Sight, Roppongi Hills, Tokyo Midtown
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