The 2020 renovation was the largest in the museum's history, adding 3,000 square meters of new space.
The 'Glass Ribbon' is a sub-level entrance that connects the museum to the surrounding Okazaki Park.
The building survived World War II largely intact, unlike many other civic structures from the early Showa period.
It holds one of the most comprehensive collections of Kyoto-based Nihonga from the 20th century.
The museum features a rooftop garden terrace that offers views of the surrounding Okazaki temple district.
The Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art is one of Japan's oldest public art museums, originally opened in 1933 as the Kyoto Enthronement Memorial Museum of Art. It features a unique blend of Teikan-yoshiki (Imperial Crown style) architecture, characterized by a Japanese-style roof atop a Western-style brick building. Following a major renovation completed in 2020 by architects Jun Aoki and Teppei Fujiwara, the facility incorporates modern elements like a glass-walled 'Glass Ribbon' entrance lobby. The museum houses a significant collection of Nihonga (Japanese-style) paintings, particularly works by artists associated with the Kyoto school. The permanent collection highlights modern and contemporary art from the Meiji period through the present. The facility includes the Higashiyama Cube, a dedicated space for contemporary art exhibitions. Outdoor spaces such as the Japanese-style garden and the front lawn plaza are accessible to the public. It serves as a central hub for the cultural district of Okazaki.
The 'Glass Ribbon' stairwell and entrance area offers a striking contrast between modern glass architecture and the historic brick facade.
Check the official website for rotating exhibition schedules as the 'Higashiyama Cube' changes displays frequently.
Utilize the museum’s free Wi-Fi and the public lounge area in the central atrium for a break.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the combination of historic galleries and new exhibition spaces involves extensive walking.
Trying to see every single wing in a single visit without checking the exhibition map first; the museum is larger than it appears.
Closed on Mondays (unless it is a public holiday) and during New Year holidays; also closes periodically between major exhibitions for installation.
Photography is restricted in specific galleries; refrain from using flash or tripods; keep voices at a moderate volume.
