#japaneseart

#summervacay On my last trip to Tokyo, I really wanted to visit the Sumida Hokusai Museum, but time just didn't allow it. This time, I made sure it was a priority! I was incredibly lucky to catch the "Elegance of Heian" (平安のみやび) special exhibition, which was exactly the kind of theme I love – and it was closing on the 24th, so I rushed over as soon as I got back to Tokyo! Special Exhibition: Heian Court Life on Display (3rd Floor) The special exhibition was on the 3rd floor, showcasing ukiyo-e prints by Hokusai and his disciples, inspired by Heian period literature. What surprised me was how small many of the works were! Despite their size, it didn't detract from their exquisite detail. The last few pieces, in particular, left me in awe: the individual strands of hair on the court ladies were depicted with incredible precision, the colors in the images were rich and vibrant, and the paper even had subtle embossed patterns. Considering these were produced with hand-carved woodblocks, it truly speaks to an extraordinary level of craftsmanship and dedication! There were also a few nikuhitsu (hand-painted)美人図 (bijinga, or beautiful women pictures). While not by Hokusai himself, I particularly loved the design on one of the beauties' kimonos, which had playing cards featuring courtesans printed on it – a really cool touch! Permanent Collection: Hokusai's Masterpieces (4th Floor) The 4th floor houses the permanent exhibition, divided into two halls. One hall organizes Hokusai's works by his creative periods, offering a chronological journey through his different styles. Each artwork has an electronic screen in front of it where you can tap to read descriptions, and I was glad to see multiple language options, including Chinese. It was an incredible experience to finally delve into Hokusai's world and see how he and his pupils captured the refined beauty of the Heian era. #SumidaHokusaiMuseum #Hokusai #UkiyoE #HeianPeriod #JapaneseArt

#summervacay I recently visited the Fukuoka Art Museum, nestled right within Ohori Park, and the setting itself is just beautiful. Beyond Yayoi Kusama's famous giant pumpkin outside, the exhibits inside truly offered me so many delightful surprises – and all for under S$10! A Journey Through Art: Modern & Contemporary Wonders (1st Floor): The first-floor galleries are incredibly international, featuring multiple rooms, each with its own theme and unique characteristics. One gallery that particularly stuck with me focused on the theme of "roads," provocatively asking, "Where do roads lead?" It was quite thought-provoking. I even saw teachers with groups of children, quietly sitting on the floor, observing the art or interacting with their teachers. They were so well-behaved and didn't disturb anyone else – I really envied how Japanese children get such an enriching exposure to art from a young age! Most of the initial galleries had a strict no-photography policy, but the very last hall on this floor had some art installations and paintings where photography was allowed, which was a nice bonus. Ancient Japanese Treasures (Basement Floor): Downstairs, on the basement level, I discovered displays of ancient Japanese art. This section included various Buddhist statues and beautiful folding screens and paintings themed around "The Tale of Genji." It was a fascinating contrast to the modern works upstairs. The Fukuoka Art Museum definitely punches above its weight in terms of value and the quality of its diverse collections. It's a fantastic spot for art lovers or anyone looking for an enriching experience in Fukuoka! #Fukuoka #FukuokaArtMuseum #OhoriPark #ArtMuseum #YayoiKusama #JapaneseArt #ModernArt #TravelJapan #AffordableTravel #ArtAndCulture

#summervacay When visiting Kyoto, don’t just stick to temples, shrines, or matcha sweets — make time for this quiet, hidden gem: the Kyoto National Museum. As one of Japan’s oldest and largest national museums, it's a treasure trove of cultural heritage. The collection includes: 🖼️ Ancient Japanese paintings 🎎 Buddhist statues 🖋️ Calligraphy and manuscripts 🍶 Ceramics and lacquerware ⚔️ Traditional weapons and armor 🎫 Visiting Info Opening Hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) Closed: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a public holiday), and Dec 28–Jan 1 Suggested visit time: 3–4 hours — perfect for a slow-paced, peaceful exploration 🚶♀️ How to Get There By Subway: Take the Kyoto Subway Tozai Line to “Higashiyama” Station, about a 5-min walk By Bus: Get off at “Higashiyama Shichijo” stop, walk about 3 mins Or get off at “Higashiyama Yasui,” walk about 5 mins By Taxi: Around 10 minutes from Kyoto Station This museum is far less crowded than Kyoto’s famous landmarks, making it a great spot for slow travelers and those interested in Japanese history and arts. Ideal for rainy days or summer heat — quiet, cool, and full of culture 🌧️📚. #KyotoTravel #KyotoNationalMuseum #UnderratedMuseums #HiddenKyoto #JapanCulture #JapaneseArt #JapanHistory

#cityplaybook #historicallandmarks In the quiet elegance of Aoyama, the Nezu Museum offers a serene retreat from Tokyo’s urban energy. This cultural gem houses an exquisite collection of Japanese and East Asian art, including calligraphy, ceramics, screens, sculptures, and samurai-era treasures—all once owned by industrialist Kaichiro Nezu. The museum building itself, designed by celebrated architect Kengo Kuma, is a masterclass in contemporary Japanese design—simple, refined, and deeply connected to nature. As you walk through the calm, light-filled halls, the interior flows seamlessly into the surrounding garden, inviting contemplation and tranquility. Beyond the art inside, the museum’s expansive Japanese garden is a highlight in every season, with winding paths, teahouses, koi ponds, and moss-covered stone lanterns that feel worlds away from the city streets outside. With rotating exhibitions and a peaceful atmosphere, the Nezu Museum is not just a place to see art—it's a place to feel it. #NezuMuseum #CityPlaybook #TokyoHiddenGems #JapaneseArt #KengoKuma #AoyamaCulture #ModernMeetsTradition #TokyoMuseums #JapaneseGarden #ArtAndArchitecture

#cityplaybook Atami isn’t just about hot springs and ocean views—it’s also a hidden gem for art lovers. Perched on a hill with a sweeping view of Sagami Bay, the MOA Museum of Art (formerly Atami Museum of Art) is a peaceful escape that blends creativity with nature. The museum’s collection includes Japanese paintings, sculptures, and stunning traditional crafts. But it’s not just about the artwork—the building itself is a work of art, with spacious galleries, serene gardens, and even a replica of the Golden Tea Room. After taking in the exhibits, enjoy a walk through the peaceful Japanese-style garden or stop by the museum café for a tea break with a view. Why I recommend MOA Museum of Art in Atami: ・You can enjoy world-class art in a beautiful seaside setting ・The view from the museum is absolutely breathtaking—especially on clear days! 📍Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan #MOAMuseum #AtamiArtTrip #ArtAndNature #HiddenGemsJapan #JapaneseArt #AtamiViews #CityPlaybook

#cityplaybook #stunningview #attractive Located in the heart of Ueno Park, the Tokyo National Museum (TNM) is Japan’s oldest and most prestigious museum, offering a profound look into the art, history, and culture of Japan and Asia. With a massive collection of over 110,000 artifacts, including samurai armor, Buddhist statues, ancient scrolls, and ceramics, TNM is a must-visit for anyone curious about the soul of Japan. The museum complex includes several galleries, each with its own focus. The Honkan (Japanese Gallery) showcases traditional arts and national treasures, while the Toyokan explores broader Asian cultures. Don’t miss the seasonal exhibits, where rare kimonos, swords, or archeological finds are often on display. The museum grounds are just as beautiful—peaceful gardens, teahouses, and historic architecture create a serene atmosphere, especially in spring with cherry blossoms or autumn with golden foliage. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or just escaping the city buzz, the Tokyo National Museum offers an inspiring and contemplative journey through the ages. #TokyoNationalMuseum #CityPlaybook #ExploreJapan #JapaneseArt #SamuraiCulture #MuseumTokyo #UenoPark #CulturalHeritage #JapanHistory #NationalTreasures #TravelTokyo

Japanese artist, Yoshitomo Nara, was born and raised in Hirosaki, Aomori in Japan. His show “Hello, can we have Nara Yoshitomo exhibition” is held in his hometown, Hirosaki. the exhibition is about how he had 3 exhibitions in the Sake brewery. History of his work, lots of installations, and explanations. If you love his work, this is highly recommended! #japan #japantravel #narayoshitomo #japaneseart