Watarium Art Museum

Watarium has a special spot in my heart and is in my top 3 Tokyo art galleries of all time. Watari-um is well known for its dynamic exhibitions that showcase both international and Japanese artists. The museum, established in 1990, has hosted so far works by famous artists such as Andy Warhol, Nam June Paik, Keith Haring, Yayoi Kusama, and Yoshitomo Nara . Worth mentioning is the fact, that Keith Haring’s connection with the Watarium dates back to 1983, when he held his first solo exhibition in Japan at Galerie Watari, the precursor to Watari-um. This exhibition was Haring’s introduction to the Japanese art scene. I can asure you that 90% of their exhibitions are fantastic (with 10% being just good 😉). The museum is housed in a outstanding building designed by Swiss architect Mario Botta (and sometimes itself becomes a canvas for paintings and performances). Last but not least - discount for pairs is a nice touch that allows you to enjoy art without breaking the bank. Make sure to check out their shop in B1F where you can purchase some amazing books and an artwork by Japanese and foreign artist.

It’s a 4-story building with a not big space. In addition to the artworks, the space composition that varies for each floor and the background of the wall are interesting. It‘s worth a visit, and the museum shop has a variety of postcard collections..

Another great museum in Tokyo. Although is small, they have a deep connection with pop art and have different exhibitions throughout the year. The store is pretty good too.

The building was designed by Swiss architect Mario Potter. It is a private museum and the first floor is a bookstore with a wide selection of designed cards and art books. The basement is a coffee shop. This museum is useful when you want to take a break in the Aoyama area.

Learning about the artist in a special way via VR and videos sound spectacular

A small little museum with lots to get you thinking. I really enjoyed reading about the works of art, my Faves were the Yoko One Chess set and the Fish Aquarium on the 4th Floor. Doesn’t take long to go through, but you can take as long as you want as they have little camp stools you can use to sit and take in the art. Lovely little Museum Shop with gorgeous cards and postcards.

Small gallery with well curated work, a lovely book shop, and small cafe. Worth dropping by to see. The current exhibition included work by Andy Warhol, Keith Harring, and Man Ray.

This is a small, modern museum with a little cafe and store near the shops in harajuku. I love how the exhibits were related to the parts and stories of the city that you don't typically see or think about. It can be ran through in less than an hour if you want.