Established in 1966, the Idemitsu Museum of Arts houses an impressive collection of Japanese art, including paintings, ceramics, and calligraphy. The museum was founded by Sazo Idemitsu, the founder of the Japanese petroleum company, and is located on the 9th floor of the Imperial Theater Building in the Marunouchi area of Chiyoda, Tokyo.
The museum’s collection includes over 7,500 items, with approximately 1,000 pieces on display at any given time. The exhibits are rotated regularly, ensuring that visitors can always see something new and exciting. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also hosts special exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing a range of Japanese art and culture.
Exhibitions
The Idemitsu Museum of Arts is known for its impressive collection of Asian art, which includes Japanese paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, and more. The museum hosts several exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing different themes and styles of art.
One of the current exhibitions at the Idemitsu Museum of Arts is titled “Iro-e and Sometsuke— Elegantly Decorated Ceramicware.” This exhibition features ceramics with elegant designs that reflect the tastes of each period and region. Visitors can explore the intricate patterns and colors of these beautiful ceramic pieces.
Another past exhibition at the museum was “The World of Ukiyo-e: From the Collection of the Idemitsu Museum of Arts.” This exhibition showcased the museum’s extensive collection of ukiyo-e prints, which are a type of Japanese woodblock print. The exhibition included works by famous artists such as Hokusai and Hiroshige.
In addition to these special exhibitions, the museum also has a permanent collection that includes over 10,000 pieces of Asian art. This collection includes works from Japan, China, Korea, and Southeast Asia.
Overall, the Idemitsu Museum of Arts is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Asian art. With its impressive collection and rotating exhibitions, there is always something new to discover at this museum.
Collections
The Idemitsu Museum of Arts is home to an impressive collection of Eastern Asian antiques, including ceramics, paintings, calligraphy, and textiles. The collection was gathered over 70 years by Sazo Idemitsu, the founder of the museum, and includes over 15,000 works of art in total.
One of the highlights of the collection is the extensive selection of Japanese art, including many pieces from the Edo period. Visitors can explore a variety of different styles and mediums, including ukiyo-e prints, lacquerware, and metalwork.
In addition to Japanese art, the museum also features a significant number of Chinese and Korean pieces. The Chinese collection includes works from the Tang, Song, and Ming dynasties, while the Korean collection includes ceramics and paintings from the Goryeo and Joseon periods.
Many of the pieces in the collection are not only beautiful but also historically significant. For example, the museum houses a number of pieces that were once owned by shoguns and other important figures in Japanese history. Visitors can learn more about the historical context of the pieces by reading the informative labels and descriptions provided by the museum.
The museum also hosts special exhibitions throughout the year, which offer visitors the chance to see even more rare and unique pieces. Past exhibitions have included themes like “The Art of the Samurai” and “Korean Ceramics from the Joseon Dynasty”. It is recommended to check the museum’s website or inquire at the front desk to see what exhibitions are currently on display.
History
The Idemitsu Museum of Arts was founded in Tokyo in 1966 by Sazo Idemitsu, the founder of the Japanese petroleum company. The museum was established to house and display his vast private art collection, which includes Japanese paintings, calligraphic works, and Eastern porcelain.
The museum was originally located in the Marunouchi area of Chiyoda, Tokyo, before moving to its current location on the 9th floor of the Imperial Hotel Tower in 2007. The move was part of a major renovation project that included the refurbishment of the elevator hall and other areas of the museum.
Since its founding, the Idemitsu Museum of Arts has organized five or six theme-based exhibitions each year, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore various aspects of Japanese art and culture. The museum’s exhibitions have covered a wide range of topics, from traditional Japanese painting and calligraphy to contemporary art and design.
The museum’s permanent collection includes over 7,000 works of art, including paintings, calligraphic works, ceramics, lacquerware, and metalwork. The collection spans a wide range of periods and styles, from ancient Jomon pottery to contemporary art and design.
Throughout its history, the Idemitsu Museum of Arts has played an important role in promoting Japanese art and culture both locally and internationally. Its exhibitions and collections have been praised for their depth, diversity, and quality, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers and enthusiasts.
Architecture
The museum was designed by H2O Design Associates and opened its doors to the public in 1966. The museum’s architecture is a unique blend of traditional and modern styles, which perfectly complements the art collection displayed inside.
The building’s exterior features a simple and elegant design, with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic. The museum’s façade is made of glass and steel, which allows natural light to flood the interior spaces. The use of glass also provides visitors with stunning views of the surrounding cityscape.
Inside the museum, visitors will find a spacious and well-lit interior that is designed to showcase the art collection. The museum’s galleries are arranged in a logical and intuitive manner, which makes it easy for visitors to navigate the space. The interior design is also notable for its use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, which create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
One of the most striking features of the museum’s architecture is its use of water. The museum’s interior spaces are designed to incorporate water features, such as fountains and reflecting pools, which create a sense of tranquility and serenity. The use of water also serves to highlight the beauty of the art collection, which is displayed against a backdrop of flowing water.
Location and Access
The Idemitsu Museum of Arts is located on the 9th floor of the Teigeki building in Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo. The museum is between the Tokyo International Forum and the Imperial Palace moat and is easily accessible by public transportation, with several stations located nearby.
Visitors can reach the museum by taking the JR Yamanote Line and walking for approximately 5 minutes from Tokyo Kokusai Forum Exit of Yurakucho Station. Alternatively, you can take the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line and walk for approximately 3 minutes from B3 Exit of Yurakucho Station.
Hours
The museum is open from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm, with last admission at 5:00 pm. It is closed on Mondays, except when Monday is a national holiday, in which case it is closed the following day.
Admission and Discounts
The regular admission fee is 1,000 yen for adults, 700 yen for college and high school students, and free for children under 18. Discounts are available for groups of 20 or more, as well as for seniors aged 65 and over. Visitors with disabilities and their accompanying caregivers are also eligible for discounts.
Exhibitions and Facilities
The museum has a permanent collection of over 15,000 works of art, including paintings, calligraphy, pottery, and lacquerware, as well as rotating special exhibitions. Printed information about the art and the exhibit as a whole is provided in both Japanese and English. The museum also has a gift shop and a café, where visitors can relax and enjoy the view of the Imperial Palace.
Tips for Visitors
Visitors are not allowed to take photographs or use mobile phones inside the museum. Bags and backpacks must be checked at the entrance, and umbrellas and strollers are not allowed in the galleries. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, as the museum is spread out over several floors. Finally, visitors should be aware that the museum can get quite crowded on weekends and holidays, so it is best to arrive early or visit on a weekday if possible.
