Matsumoto City Museum of Art

The Matsumoto City Museum of Art opened in 2002 in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, specifically designed to showcase the works of Yayoi Kusama, one of Japan's most internationally acclaimed contemporary artists. Born in Matsumoto in 1929, Kusama donated several major works to her hometown, forming the core of the museum's permanent collection. The museum building itself features Kusama's distinctive polka dot patterns on its façade, making it an instantly recognizable landmark in the city.

The museum holds the world's largest public collection of Kusama's work, with approximately 240 pieces including paintings, sculptures, and installations spanning her seven-decade career. Her signature infinity rooms, obsessive dot patterns, and vibrant pumpkin sculptures dominate the collection. Beyond Kusama, the museum exhibits works by other artists connected to Matsumoto and the Shinano region, including Western-style painters from the Meiji and Taisho periods. Rotating exhibitions ensure repeat visitors encounter fresh perspectives on contemporary art.

Visitors can explore multiple gallery floors showcasing Kusama's evolution from her early Japanese paintings through her groundbreaking New York period to her recent immersive installations. The museum shop offers exclusive Kusama-designed merchandise unavailable elsewhere, including art books, prints, and novelty items. Photography policies vary by exhibition, though Kusama's outdoor sculptures in the surrounding area typically permit photos. The museum experience typically requires one to two hours for a thorough visit.

Located approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Matsumoto Station in the city center, the museum is easily accessible for visitors exploring Matsumoto Castle and other nearby attractions. Several local bus routes stop near the museum for those preferring not to walk. Admission costs ¥410 for adults, with reduced rates for students and children, while special exhibitions may require additional fees. The museum provides English signage and audio guides to accommodate international visitors.