Suntory Museum of Art

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The museum's interior design by Kengo Kuma utilizes warm, organic materials intended to evoke the feeling of a traditional Japanese home.

2. 2

   The collection is heavily centered on 'Art in Life' (Seikatsu no naka no bijutsu), prioritizing objects that were historically used in daily life rather than purely decorative pieces.

3. 3

   It houses significant works designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties of Japan.

4. 4

   The museum building is located in Minato City, not Toshima, despite database discrepancies regarding the ward.

5. 5

   Large glass facades are designed to filter sunlight through a screen of ceramic louvers to protect light-sensitive artifacts.

Overview

The Suntory Museum of Art is located within the Tokyo Midtown complex in Minato City, Tokyo, focusing on the theme of 'Art in Life.' Designed by architect Kengo Kuma, the museum emphasizes a harmonious integration of traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary urban materials, notably using wood and washi paper. The museum does not maintain a permanent exhibition, instead rotating its collection of approximately 3,000 items through several temporary exhibitions each year. Its holdings center on pre-modern Japanese art, including ceramics, lacquerware, textiles, and paintings. The interior features a distinctive 'floating' staircase and large glass panels that offer views of the surrounding garden. The museum is operated by the Suntory Foundation and serves as a quiet contrast to the surrounding commercial development of Roppongi.

Insider tips

• Check the official website exhibition schedule before arriving, as the museum frequently closes during the transition between temporary exhibitions.

• Visit the museum shop for high-quality, craft-focused souvenirs that reflect the current exhibition themes.

• The tea room, Kajuen, is situated within the museum and offers traditional matcha and seasonal Japanese sweets.