HOME Tokyo and Surroundings Tokyo Roppongi Visiting Museums in Tokyo: Introducing The National Art Center in Roppongi

Visiting Museums in Tokyo: Introducing The National Art Center in Roppongi

Last updated: 1 September 2020

The National Art Center in Roppongi doesn't have a collection of its own - instead, it fulfills the role of an art center that focuses on cultural exchange and communication, creating and entirely new type of museum. Next to themed exhibitions, unique restaurants and cafes offer a lot of ways to enjoy a day at the museum besides admiring art!

The impressive curtain wall entirely made out of glass that resembles one massive wave in motion is the beautiful front of the National Art Center, designed by star architect Kisho Kurokawa. The theme of the museum is "museum inside a forest", and following this, around 50 different species of plants grow on site, creating a stunning scenery that changes with the seasons. The inside of the museum is brightly lit with natural light, creating a relaxing, calm atmosphere. Especially noteworthy are the two huge cones that tower over visitors in the atrium-style lobby of the museum - the entire building undoubtedly is a piece of art in itself.

Three cafés are located inside the museum, along with one restaurant. This restaurant is "Brasserie Paul Bocuse Le Musee" on the third floor and the first restaurant that master of French cuisine Paul Bocuse opened in Japan. Authentic, delicious French food can be enjoyed n this three-star restaurant, awareded by Michelin. The menu also features special dishes that are centered around the special exhibitions being held and, to make the museum experience perfect, the restaurant is located on one of the two inverted cones, appearing like the place is floating in the air. During noon, the tables are bathed in sunlight while at night, the illuminated skyline of Roppongi spreads in front of one's eyes - Tokyo Tower included.

The museum shop "Souvenir from Tokyo," located inside the National Art Center, has a large selection of domestic and international goods chosen to embody the Tokyo perspective, without limiting itself to a specific brand or genre. While part of the shop is also in the lobby of the museum's first floor, the highlight clearly is the basement. From art-related books, crafts, fashion and accessories to daily necessities and snacks, the basement is filled with a colorful assortment of original goods. The many things on sale all tell a tale of creativity and intellectual curiosity and therefore represent the core of Tokyo like no other shop could - this is the perfect place to find a souvenir. A special recommendation are the special edition sweets that were made as a collaboration between the museum and the long-established traditional store Kikunoya in Ginza. Especially popular is "fukiyose," a beautiful, colorful assortment of different candies that do not only taste amazing but are also a feast for the eyes.