Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art Overview
The Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art opened in Shinjuku City in October 2017 and is attracting attention as a place to experience the unique artistic world of Yayoi Kusama. Her artworks leave a strong impression on visitors not only because of their visual impact but also because of their profound message. The museum is a rare spot where visitors can trace Kusama's artistic journey and feel her influence.
Inside the museum, visitors can experience the diversity of Kusama's art by displaying representative works by Yayoi Kusama and related materials. Special exhibitions and lectures held several times a year are valuable opportunities for visitors to understand the ideas behind Kusama's work and her creative process. This allows visitors to not only view her work but also to sense its significance and message.
The purpose of establishing the Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art is to spread the message of world peace and human love through her artwork. Kusama's artwork reflects her own experiences and emotions and evokes deep empathy in the viewer. Such a message is essential in today's society, and the museum serves as a venue for its dissemination. Through Kusama's work, visitors will be reminded of the significance of striving for a better world.
The museum is operated by the Yayoi Kusama Memorial Art Foundation, which is dedicated to promoting Kusama's art, preserving and exhibiting her work, and providing educational programs. The foundation's transparency and credibility provide reassurance to visitors and help them gain a deeper understanding of Kusama's art.
The Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art is structured from the first basement floor to the fifth floor above ground, with each floor containing exhibition spaces of different themes and styles. This allows visitors to enjoy Kusama's work from diverse perspectives and experience the depth of her art. In particular, her installations and video works are characterized by their use of the entire space, providing visitors with a new sensory experience.
Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art Admission Fees
Admission to the Yayoi Kusama Art Museum is ¥1,100 for adults, ¥600 for elementary, junior high, and high school students, and free for preschool children. This pricing is intended to provide an accessible cultural experience for visitors of all ages. In particular, free admission for preschool children is a major attraction for families. In addition, group discounts are not set, so individual visitors pay the fee equally. This ensures visitors get a fair share of the museum's unique art experience.
Tickets for the Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art are fully reserved and can only be purchased through the official website. This system is designed to manage visitor flow and avoid crowding. Admission is limited to a specific date and time, with a 90-minute time slot for each visit. This allows visitors to enjoy the art in a relaxed environment and deepen their understanding of the artwork. Visitors can visit the museum with peace of mind, as reservations ensure a smooth admission process.
Ticket sales begin at 10:00 a.m. on the first day of each month for the following month. This sales schedule is essential in helping visitors plan and select their visit dates. In addition, the sales deadline is 30 minutes before each admission time, which allows visitors to plan and secure the tickets they need. Such a system is especially effective in avoiding crowding during popular exhibitions and events.
The Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art does not have a waiting list and prohibits the resale of tickets for commercial purposes. This policy is intended to ensure that visitors have fair access to tickets. Preventing resale encourages admission at a total price and preserves the value of the art experience. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets directly from the official website, allowing them to visit the museum confidently.
Admission is by appointment only, with a 90-minute capacity limit for each session. Visitors must enter within the allotted time, preventing crowding in the museum and providing a pleasant viewing environment. This system is designed to allow visitors to focus on the artwork. It is essential to make reservations in advance, especially for popular exhibitions. Visitors will have a better experience if they enter on time.
Directions to the Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art
Access to the Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art is very convenient. The nearest station is Ushigome Yanagicho Station on the Toei Oedo Line, a 6-minute from the East Exit. It is also possible to reach the museum from Waseda Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, about a 7-minute walk away. These stations offer good access from central Tokyo and are easily accessible for tourists. In particular, the area around Waseda Station is known as a student town and enjoys a lively atmosphere.
The Toei Bus is another convenient public transportation option. In particular, the White 61 bus stops at the "Ushigome Health Center-mae" or "Ushigome Bentencho" bus stop, from which the museum is only a few minutes' walk away. This bus route provides good access to nearby tourist attractions, making it an ideal stopover between sightseeing tours. The bus service is also widespread, so you can use the bus without worrying about the time.
The Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art does not have a dedicated or bicycle parking lot, so visiting by car, motorcycle, or bicycle is not recommended. Visitors are strongly encouraged to use public transportation. Especially in the crowded Shinjuku area, it is often difficult to find a parking space, and public transportation can reduce stress. Planning your transportation will help ensure a smooth visit.
For directions to the museum and information on the surrounding area, check the official website for a detailed map. The map also includes routes from the nearest train station and nearby tourist attractions to help visitors enjoy their visit efficiently. Visitors are also encouraged to check the website prior to their visit for the latest exhibition and event information, as it is constantly updated.
Due to the limited site area of the Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art, there is no waiting area upon entry. Therefore, visitors are expected to arrive at the museum according to the designated admission time. Admission is by appointment only, and each visit is limited to a 90-minute time slot, so purchasing tickets in advance and visiting at the designated time is essential. This will allow visitors to avoid crowds and have a leisurely time to enjoy the exhibitions.
Points to note when visiting
Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art uses a complete reservation system to optimize the visitor experience. Visitors must plan, as they can only enter the museum 10 minutes before their reserved time. This system avoids crowding and allows visitors to enjoy the art in a quiet environment. Also, because the museum is small, visitors should refrain from arriving before the entrance start time. This will ensure a smooth entrance.
The museum is relatively small, and 30 to 40 minutes is usually recommended. This short time frame allows visitors to fully appreciate Yayoi Kusama's unique works. The compact exhibits allow visitors time to think deeply about each piece. Visitors can get the most out of the limited time to view Kusama's art.
Photography is permitted in some regions of the Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art, but flash and tripods are prohibited. This rule is intended to protect the artwork and not detract from other visitors' experience and work. Visitors are expected to consider their surroundings when documenting the beauty of the art. This ensures a quiet viewing environment and the enjoyment of art by all.
Visitors must leave large hand luggage in the lockers on the first floor when visiting the museum. This rule is designed to use the museum's space efficiently and allow visitors to enjoy art comfortably. Visitors are encouraged to manage their valuables on their own. Visitors can concentrate on viewing the art in a safe and secure environment by keeping a close eye on their baggage. Visitors may also consult with staff depending on the availability of lockers.
Eating and drinking are prohibited in the Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art. This policy is essential to protect the artwork and to maintain a quiet viewing environment for visitors. When visiting the museum, visitors are encouraged to plan for food and beverages and to enjoy meals outside the museum. There are many restaurants in the surrounding area where visitors can refresh themselves after viewing art.
Sights around Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art
Natsume-zaka is a historical slope only a 2-minute walk from the Yayoi Kusama Museum of Art. This slope offers visitors the pleasure of strolling through a place that has been a picturesque townscape since the Edo period (1603-1868).
The landscape changes dramatically as one climbs the hill, revealing quiet residential areas and old buildings. In particular, the area surrounding Natsume-zaka is dotted with buildings with historical backgrounds, which visitors can appreciate as they stroll along. Visitors will discover the hidden charms of Shinjuku by walking along the slope.
After descending Natsume-zaka, the Soseki Sanso Memorial Hall awaits. This memorial hall houses exhibits related to the famous writer Soseki Natsume and is a valuable place for visitors to gain a deeper understanding of his literary legacy.
The museum displays a wealth of materials related to Soseki's life and works, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in his literary world. The memorial hall is also surrounded by a tranquil garden where visitors can relax and contemplate literature. For literature fans, this is a must-see spot.
Walking further from the Soseki Sanso Memorial Hall, you will see the tomb of Seki Takakazu, a mathematician of the Edo period. This tomb is a place to remember Seki Takakazu, who contributed significantly to the development of Japanese mathematics, and is an important cultural and historical site to learn about his achievements.
The tomb is in a quiet environment where visitors can contemplate his outstanding achievements. Especially for those interested in mathematics and history, a visit to Seki Takakazu's tomb will give visitors a sense of the depth of learning in the Edo period.
After visiting the tomb of Seki Takakazu, we recommend visiting Jorinji Temple. This temple is about two minutes from the museum and offers a serene atmosphere. Jorinji Temple is an essential place of worship for the locals and offers visitors peace of mind. The temple has a beautiful garden where visitors can enjoy the changing scenery of the four seasons. It is an ideal spot, especially for those who want to spend some quiet time.
After leaving Jorinji Temple, take a short walk to explore the charming neighborhood of Kagurazaka. Kagurazaka, about 17 minutes from the museum, is an area that blends old-world Japanese flair with modern cafes and stores. In particular, just strolling along the cobblestone streets of Kagurazaka, lined with historic buildings and fashionable stores, is an enjoyable experience. Visitors will also discover something new as they enjoy the local cuisine and art.
Official Site (English)→Yayoi Kusama Museum
