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Museums #3 in Tajimi

Museum of Modern Ceramic Art, Gifu

4.2 · 662 reviews
Serene, minimalist, and reflective.
Museum of Modern Ceramic Art, Gifu, 現代陶芸美術館 セラミックパークMINO, 内, 4 Chome-2-5 Higashimachi, Tajimi, Gifu 507-0801, Japan
Interesting facts
1

The museum complex is built into a topographical depression, allowing the roof to act as an extension of the park's landscape.

2

Architect Arata Isozaki designed the facility to mimic the natural geological layers of the surrounding valley.

3

The institution hosts one of the world's most significant collections of British studio pottery outside of the United Kingdom.

4

Ceramic Park MINO, the surrounding complex, features a glass-walled 'Cascade' plaza that serves as a central hub for the facility.

5

The location is situated within a region that has been the center of Mino-yaki production for over 1,300 years.

Overview

The Museum of Modern Ceramic Art, Gifu, is a dedicated facility for international contemporary ceramics located within the Ceramic Park MINO complex. Designed by architect Arata Isozaki, the museum is integrated into the rugged hillside of Tajimi, a city historically significant for Mino-yaki pottery. Its collection emphasizes post-19th-century ceramic art, including works by influential figures such as Lucie Rie and Hans Coper. The site features the 'Ceramic Valley' concept, bridging traditional craftsmanship with modern artistic expression. The architecture utilizes natural light and open spatial design to harmonize with the surrounding Gifu landscape. Rotating exhibitions frequently highlight the evolution of ceramic techniques and materials. The site functions as both a repository for fine art and a study center for the historical progression of modern pottery. It remains a primary destination for those exploring Japan's ceramic heritage in the Gifu prefecture.

Photo spot

The dramatic, glass-walled 'Cascade' area within the Ceramic Park MINO complex.

Insider tips

Walk the outdoor pathways through the surrounding park to view the building's unique integration into the landscape.

Check the official website for current special exhibition themes before traveling, as these significantly change the gallery experience.

Utilize the on-site cafe for views overlooking the valley.

What to avoid

Assuming the museum is a general history museum; it is specifically focused on modern and contemporary ceramic art.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday).

Etiquette

Maintain silence in gallery spaces; flash photography is strictly prohibited inside exhibition rooms.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Autumn, when the surrounding hillside foliage complements the earth-toned architecture.
Address
Museum of Modern Ceramic Art, Gifu, 現代陶芸美術館 セラミックパークMINO, 内, 4 Chome-2-5 Higashimachi, Tajimi, Gifu 507-0801, Japan
35.331, 137.155
Get directions
Details
Key exhibits20th-century studio pottery, contemporary international ceramic installations
ArchitectArata Isozaki

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Autumn, when the surrounding hillside foliage complements the earth-toned architecture..

The dramatic, glass-walled 'Cascade' area within the Ceramic Park MINO complex.

Close by you'll find Kokeizan Eihoji Temple, Mosaic Tile Museum Tajimi, Mino Ceramic Art Museum.