What types of art can I see at the Yokohama Museum of Art?

The museum displays modern and contemporary art from the late 19th century onward. The collection includes European works by Cézanne, Picasso, Magritte, and Dalí, and Japanese pieces by Yokoyama Taikan and Kishida Ryusei. The museum maintains a significant photography collection and features artists connected to Yokohama's international history.

How much time should I allocate for visiting the museum?

Plan 1.5 to 2 hours for the permanent collection only, or 2.5 to 3 hours if visiting both permanent and special exhibitions.

Can I take photographs inside the museum?

Photography is generally prohibited in special exhibition galleries. Some permanent collection areas may allow photography without flash. Check posted signage at each exhibition entrance for specific rules.

Are there English materials or tours available?

The museum provides English signage for major works and English pamphlets at the information desk. Audio guides may be available for certain special exhibitions. The information desk staff can assist with basic inquiries in English.

Is the museum suitable for children and families?

Yes. Children junior high school age and younger receive free admission to the permanent collection. Strollers are permitted in most areas. The museum occasionally offers children's workshops during school holidays that may require advance booking.

Yokohama Museum of Art

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The Yokohama Museum of Art opened in November 1989 as one of Japan's largest art museums, designed by renowned architect Tange Kenzo and his team. Located in the Minato Mirai 21 waterfront district, the museum was established to commemorate Yokohama's status as one of Japan's first ports to open to international trade in 1859. The distinctive building features a grand symmetrical façade and spacious galleries flooded with natural light, covering approximately 27,000 square meters of floor space.

The museum holds significant cultural importance as a bridge between Japanese and Western art traditions, reflecting Yokohama's historical role as a gateway for cultural exchange. Its permanent collection comprises over 13,000 works, with particular strength in modern and contemporary art from the late 19th century onward. The collection includes important pieces by European masters such as Cézanne, Picasso, and Dalí, alongside major Japanese artists including Yokoyama Taikan and Kishida Ryusei. The museum particularly emphasizes photographers and artists connected to Yokohama's development as an international city.

Visitors can explore seven exhibition rooms across multiple floors, with the permanent collection displayed on a rotating basis alongside special temporary exhibitions. The museum's signature feature is its Grand Gallery, a dramatic column-free space rising to the ceiling that hosts large-scale contemporary installations and events. Photography enthusiasts appreciate the dedicated photography gallery, while the museum shop offers quality art books and exhibition catalogues. A restaurant and café provide views over the museum's approach and the surrounding urban landscape.

The museum is easily accessible via the Minato Mirai Line, with the closest station being Minato Mirai Station (3-minute walk). Alternatively, visitors can use Sakuragicho Station on the JR Keihin-Tohoku and Yokohama Lines (10-minute walk). Admission to the permanent collection costs 500 yen for adults, with special exhibition tickets priced separately and typically ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 yen.

Yokohama Museum of Art

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What other travelers are saying about Yokohama Museum of Art

① Access from Tokyo From Tokyo Station, take the Tokaido Line to Yokohama Station, transfer to the Minatomirai Line, and ride to Minatomirai Station (40 min). 5-minute walk from Minatomirai Station. ② Cost Train fare: ¥700, Admission: ¥2000 ③ Review A museum conveniently located near Minatomirai Station. Its stylish architecture complements the modern landscape of the Minatomirai area. The Kanai wing is divided into temporary exhibitions and permanent exhibitions on opposite sides. The layout is well-designed, allowing visitors to naturally transition to the permanent exhibition after viewing the temporary one. The February 2026 special exhibition is titled "Always Beside You." It explores the exchange of art between Japan and Korea. The scope is broad, ranging from works related to the identity of Koreans in Japan to pieces that served as an antithesis to East-West division, including groundbreaking satellite broadcasts that connected the world at the time. A fascinating museum that can't be fully experienced in a short time.

44 G

Feb 12, 2026

In the centre of Yokohama you will find the art gallery. The entry fee is approx 1000yen per adult entry or 3600 for 2 adult. The collection is relatively small in size but some amazing well known artists. The staff are super friendly and helpful. Easy walk from all of the other Yokohama sites. Good if you have a few spare hours.

The art museum with beautiful exterior. They hold special exhibitions with different themes several times a year. Yokohama was a small fishing village until around 1850. But after the international port was built, it developed rapidly and became the metropolis like today. The exhibition introducing the history of Yokohama was very interesting. But I don't know if these exhibits are always on display.

A very emotional experience. The art is curated so well that I am actually considering coming back again soon because they actually changed the exhibition every 3 months or so. Just a friendly reminder for special exhibition you always have to book ahead because they always sell out.

The building itself is beautiful. A rich collection of Japanese and European art (Dali, Magritte, Kandinsky, Bacon, Ernst and more) with descriptions also in English.