Where Architecture, Light, and Creativity Come Together

🌟 What is The National Art Center, Tokyo?
Unlike traditional museums with permanent collections, The National Art Center, Tokyo is a “museum without art”—a unique cultural institution that hosts rotating exhibitions only.
It’s housed in a breathtaking building designed by Kisho Kurokawa, with sweeping glass curves, sky-high ceilings, and a minimalist atmosphere that enhances any exhibit held within.
If you’re looking for inspiration, peace, and world-class curation, this space is a must-visit for every creative soul.
🔭 Why Visit?
- 🖼️ No Permanent Collection: Every visit is new and unpredictable
- 🌍 Global & Japanese Exhibitions: From Monet to manga, modern to classical
- 🏛️ Stunning Architecture: One of the most iconic museum designs in Asia
- 📚 Art Library & Reading Lounge: Free to enter, filled with art books
- ☕ Chic Café & Restaurant: Dine inside the architectural marvel
- 🎨 Visitor-Friendly: English info, digital guides, and calm atmosphere
📸 Featured Zones
Zone | Description |
---|---|
Main Exhibition Halls | 12,000+ sqm hosting major art showcases |
Glass Atrium | Curved glass façade with natural light |
2F Café Salon de Thé Rond | Circular café hovering above the atrium |
Museum Shop | High-quality art goods, posters, and stationery |
Art Library | Open-access library for quiet reading and research |
🎟️ Admission & Info
- 🖼️ Exhibitions: Vary monthly; fees typically ¥1,000–¥2,000
- 🎫 Tickets: Available online or at the entrance (some require timed slots)
- 📖 Art Library: Free admission
- ☕ Café & Shop: Free entry (no exhibit ticket required)
🕒 Opening Hours
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Fridays until 8:00 PM)
Last entry 30 min before close
📅 Closed on Tuesdays
🚨 Visitor Tips
- 📅 Check exhibition calendar in advance — it changes frequently
- 📷 Photography is often restricted inside galleries — OK in public areas
- 🧘♀️ Great spot for peaceful solo visits or creative recharging
- 🌸 Visit in spring — cherry blossoms line the approach to the museum
- 🧴 Use coin lockers for large bags (available in basement level)
🚉 Access
- Nogizaka Station (Chiyoda Line): Direct underground access from Exit 6
- Roppongi Station (Oedo / Hibiya Lines): 5–7 minute walk
- Short walk from Tokyo Midtown, ideal to combine in one day
🍴 Top 3 Nearby Cafés & Eats
1. Salon de Thé Rond (Inside Museum)
- 🍰 Elegant circular café on a “floating” platform above the atrium
- ☕ Great for coffee, tea, and cakes in a serene space
- 🕒 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
2. Union Square Tokyo (Tokyo Midtown)
- 🥗 Stylish NY-style brasserie with open kitchen & garden views
- 📍 5-min walk through Midtown Garden
- 🕒 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
3. Blue Bottle Coffee Roppongi Café
- ☕ Minimalist, airy space with top-tier espresso and pastries
- 📍 Roppongi Intersection (10 min walk)
- 🕒 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
🔁 Sample Itinerary: Art & Design Day in Roppongi
🕒 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- ☕ Start with coffee at Blue Bottle
- 🖼️ Explore current exhibit at The National Art Center
- 📚 Quick browse at the art library
- 🍰 Afternoon tea at Salon de Thé Rond
- 🌳 Walk to 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT or Tokyo Midtown
- 🛍️ Optional shopping or dinner nearby
📍 Address & Contact
Address
7-22-2 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-8558, Japan
Phone
📞 +81-3-5777-8600
Website
https://www.nact.jp/english/