Sumida Hokusai Museum

The Sumida Hokusai Museum in Tokyo's Sumida Ward celebrates the life and work of Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849), one of Japan's most influential ukiyo-e artists. Hokusai lived nearly his entire life in the Sumida area, moving more than 90 times within the district during his career. The museum opened in November 2016, designed by renowned architect Sejima Kazuyo of SANAA, who created a distinctive aluminum-clad building with angular geometric forms that has become a landmark in the neighborhood.

The museum's collection focuses on Hokusai's extensive body of work, including his famous "Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji" series featuring the iconic "The Great Wave off Kanagawa." Hokusai was extraordinarily prolific, producing an estimated 30,000 works throughout his lifetime, ranging from woodblock prints to paintings and manga sketch books. The museum presents both permanent exhibitions introducing Hokusai's artistic development and temporary exhibitions that rotate seasonally, displaying original works, reproductions, and materials that contextualize his creative process and influence on both Japanese and Western art.

Visitors can explore interactive displays and digital installations that make Hokusai's techniques accessible to contemporary audiences. The museum includes hands-on exhibits where guests can learn about woodblock printing methods and see how multiple color layers combine to create finished prints. A museum shop offers high-quality reproductions, art books, and Hokusai-themed merchandise, while a lecture room hosts educational programs and workshops throughout the year.

The museum is located approximately 9 minutes' walk from Ryogoku Station on the JR Sobu Line or 5 minutes' walk from Ryogoku Station on the Toei Oedo Line. Admission costs 400 yen for adults for the permanent collection, with additional fees for special exhibitions. The museum is closed on Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a holiday) and during the New Year period.