Suntory Museum of Art: A Treasure of Japanese Culture in Tokyo

Overview

The Suntory Museum of Art, located in the vibrant city of Tokyo, is a private museum that houses an impressive collection of approximately 3,000 works of Japanese art and crafts. Its philosophy revolves around the theme of 'art in life,' which has guided the curation of its exquisite collection over the past 40 years. Visitors can explore a rotating display of lacquerware, ceramics, paintings, glasswork, textiles, and more. Although much of the collection is not permanently exhibited, the museum frequently showcases temporary exhibitions alongside selected items from its vast inventory. Notable features of the museum include a specially designed tea ceremony room, Gencho-an, where traditional Japanese tea ceremonies are held every second Thursday. These sessions provide a unique opportunity to witness the Otemae ceremony first-hand. To stay updated on current and upcoming exhibitions, make sure to check the museum's official website.

Photo of Suntory Museum of Art
Photo of Suntory Museum of Art
Photo of Suntory Museum of Art
Photo of Suntory Museum of Art
Opening hours
  • Sunday 10:00 - 18:00
  • Monday 10:00 - 18:00
  • Tuesday 10:00 - 18:00
  • Wednesday 10:00 - 18:00
  • Thursday 10:00 - 20:00
  • Friday 10:00 - 18:00

Open 24/7

Contact Info
  • AddressJapan, 〒107-8643 Tokyo, Minato City, Akasaka, 9-chōme−7−4 東京ミッドタウン ガレリア 3階
  • Phone+81 3-3479-8600

Reviews

Emine Yılmaz
Turkey
5
The Suntory Museum offers a remarkable experience that truly transports you away from the bustling shopping mall atmosphere. The architecture is designed to create a sense of comfort and relaxation, allowing visitors to slow down and appreciate the space. The staff are both elegant and attentive, guiding visitors throughout the entrance and various floors. I particularly enjoyed the 'silent hour' from 10 to 11 am during my visit, which fostered an environment of quiet admiration for the art. It was fascinating to observe how Japanese patrons approach art with a calm demeanor, allowing everyone to take their time in reflecting on the pieces. I gained a deep appreciation for Japanese contemporary art while visiting.
Sophie Lee
South Korea
4
Situated within the Tokyo Mid Town building, the museum features approximately two floors of exhibitions, showcasing remarkable artifacts from daily life, such as trunks, ceramics, and glass items, aligning with the concept of 'Art in Life.' One of my favorites is the Western Kings on Horseback, an extraordinary example of early western-style painting in Japan. The artwork depicts figures including the King of Persia, the King of Ethiopia, and Henry IV of France, while the identity of the leftmost figure remains a subject of debate. This painting symbolizes Japan's connection to the broader world and its resilience, particularly during the Tokyo bombings in World War II.
Milan Novak
Czech Republic
4
The museum, located on the third floor of a shopping mall, was a bit challenging to locate at first, but I eventually found it. The exhibition includes numerous boxes, ceramics, clothing, and paintings. Although the ambiance is somewhat dim, I found it quite enjoyable. The atmosphere is good, but there are limited seating options. Have a wonderful visit!
Munkhbat N.
Mongolia
4
The museum is pleasant, but it’s rather small and didn’t particularly impress me.
John Smith
United States
5
This exhibit is reasonably priced and very intriguing. The service is excellent, and there's enough English support for those who don’t speak Japanese. Most of the exhibition areas do not permit photography, which is understandable. I recommend visiting to see it for yourself, as it is located in the beautiful Tokyo Midtown.