Asahikawa Museum of Art
Hokkaido's first prefectural art museum, showcasing woodworking and regional artists within serene Tokiwa Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Asahikawa Museum of Art
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hokkaido's first prefectural art museum, showcasing woodworking and regional artists within serene Tokiwa Park.
"A well-curated small museum with great exhibits for its size, located in a very pretty park."
📸 Use Google Translate for Photos
While photos of art are restricted, use Google Translate's camera feature to capture and translate descriptions!
👟 Explore Tokiwa Park
Don't miss the outdoor sculptures and serene park setting before or after your museum visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Woodworking Collection
Gallery 2
Admire exquisite wooden artworks, a testament to Asahikawa's renowned craftsmanship.
Regional Artist Showcase
Gallery 1
Explore paintings, prints, and sculptures by talented artists from northern Hokkaido.
Tokiwa Park Sculptures
Outside the museum
Discover numerous outdoor sculptures scattered throughout the picturesque Tokiwa Park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art & Nature
Check Exhibition Schedules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Use Google Translate for Photos
While photos of art are restricted, use Google Translate's camera feature to capture and translate descriptions!
👟 Explore Tokiwa Park
Don't miss the outdoor sculptures and serene park setting before or after your museum visit.
☕ Relax at the Cafe
Enjoy a coffee and a moment of calm at the museum's cafe after your art immersion.
Check Exhibition Schedule
Verify current exhibitions and hours on their website to plan your visit effectively.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Use Google Translate for Photos
While photos of art are restricted, use Google Translate's camera feature to capture and translate descriptions!
👟 Explore Tokiwa Park
Don't miss the outdoor sculptures and serene park setting before or after your museum visit.
☕ Relax at the Cafe
Enjoy a coffee and a moment of calm at the museum's cafe after your art immersion.
Check Exhibition Schedule
Verify current exhibitions and hours on their website to plan your visit effectively.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Asahikawa Museum of Art for its well-curated, intimate collection, particularly its focus on woodworking and regional artists. Its serene location within Tokiwa Park and reasonable admission fees are also highlighted as positives. Some find the exhibits limited in scope, and the no-photography policy for artworks can be a drawback for some.
"The Hokkaido Asahikawa Museum of Art, nestled in Tokiwa Park at the heart of Asahikawa, is a serene and culturally rich hub that art lovers shouldn't miss. Opened in July 1982, it's recognized as Hokkaido's first prefectural art museum, designed to enrich the northern region’s cultural landscape.
Inside, visitors encounter two core collections: exquisite wooden artworks that spotlight Asahikawa's celebrated woodworking tradition, alongside paintings, prints, sculptures, and crafts by artists rooted in northern Hokkaido. These exhibits—ranging from both regional and international art—are thoughtfully rotated through “Museum Collection” and special exhibition programs, offering fresh perspectives throughout the year.
The museum is highly accessible, open daily from 9:30 AM to 5 PM (last entry at 4:30), with closures on Mondays (or the following day after national holidays), New Year’s holidays, and during exhibit changeovers. Admission to Gallery 2 is budget-friendly—around ¥260 for adults and ¥150 for students—with Gallery 1 fees varying depending on exhibitions.
Facilities are well-equipped, featuring free parking (shared with the park), wheelchair access, accessible restrooms, slopes, nursing rooms, wheelchairs on request, and even AED availability. There's also a cafe and museum shop, perfect for relaxing after viewing the galleries."
Neil - The Backpack Adventures
"Very well curated small museum that has great exhibits for its size. The museum is also located inside a park which is very pretty and there are numerous statues outside to view before entering! I was introduced to many new artists here! The museum has a no photos policy but foreigners can use google translate to take pictures and translate the descriptions of the art found around the museum! This is a great place to visit if you find yourself in Tokiwa park with an hour to spare! The ticket prices are also quite reasonable and they offer discounts for students and senior citizens."
Cai Davis (Max)
"Very humble & simple. Good place to hang out on hot days. Fees starts from 560 yen to 1000 yen"
Angie Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Tokiwa Park, in the heart of Asahikawa. It's accessible by public transport, with local buses serving the area. If driving, there is free parking available, shared with the park.
Yes, it's situated within the well-known Tokiwa Park, making it a straightforward destination to locate within the city.
Absolutely! It's a perfect stop if you're exploring Asahikawa or using it as a base for day trips to nearby attractions like Biei and Furano.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is typically open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours and any temporary closures.
Admission fees vary. Gallery 2, featuring the permanent collection, is budget-friendly (around ¥260 for adults, ¥150 for students). Special exhibitions in Gallery 1 have separate, variable fees.
Yes, discounts are often available for students and senior citizens. It's advisable to inquire at the ticket counter or check their website for specific details.
The museum is generally closed on Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday), and during New Year's holidays and exhibit changeovers. Always confirm on their website.
While advance tickets might not always be necessary for the permanent collection, it's recommended for special exhibitions, especially during peak seasons. Check their website for online booking options.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The museum features a significant collection of wooden artworks, reflecting Asahikawa's woodworking heritage, alongside paintings, prints, sculptures, and crafts by artists from northern Hokkaido.
Photography of the artworks is generally not permitted. However, some visitors have found workarounds using translation apps with camera functions to document descriptions.
Yes, the museum is well-equipped with facilities like wheelchair access, accessible restrooms, slopes, and wheelchairs available on request. AEDs are also available.
The museum is located in Tokiwa Park, which offers beautiful scenery, walking paths, and numerous outdoor sculptures to explore.
Yes, there is a cafe and a museum shop where you can relax, enjoy refreshments, and purchase souvenirs or art-related items.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafe where visitors can enjoy light refreshments and drinks. It's a convenient spot to take a break.
The cafe typically offers beverages like coffee and tea, along with light snacks. It's a good place for a short rest rather than a full meal.
Asahikawa city has many dining options. You can find various restaurants, from local Hokkaido cuisine to international flavors, a short distance from Tokiwa Park.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography of the artworks is prohibited to protect them. However, some visitors have used translation apps with camera features to document artwork descriptions.
The surrounding Tokiwa Park offers beautiful scenery, especially during different seasons, and features numerous outdoor sculptures that make for great photo opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed in Tokiwa Park for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more engaging experience, use the Google Translate camera feature to help kids understand the descriptions of the art, turning it into a fun learning activity. Remember that photography of artworks is restricted, so manage expectations regarding photo opportunities inside the galleries.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Don't overlook the opportunity to explore the outdoor sculptures in Tokiwa Park, which extend the artistic journey. The reasonable admission fees make it an accessible cultural experience. Consider dedicating a few hours to fully appreciate both the indoor collections and the park's artistic ambiance.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Take advantage of the opportunity to delve into the unique woodworking art and discover local Hokkaido artists without the pressure of a large group. The cafe is a perfect spot to reflect on the art you've seen, and the surrounding park offers a pleasant environment for quiet contemplation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Woodworking in Asahikawa
Beyond the permanent collection, the museum also hosts special exhibitions that may delve deeper into specific aspects of woodworking or feature contemporary artists who are pushing the boundaries of the craft. It's a unique opportunity to see how this traditional art form continues to evolve and inspire. The museum's location in Hokkaido, a region rich in natural resources, further emphasizes the connection between the land and the art created from it.
Exploring Tokiwa Park
During warmer months, the park is a vibrant space for relaxation and recreation. In winter, it transforms into a serene, snow-covered landscape, offering a different kind of charm. The presence of these outdoor art installations means that the artistic experience extends beyond the museum walls, making a visit to the area a comprehensive cultural outing. It's an ideal spot for a peaceful walk or a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the city.
Navigating Asahikawa's Art Scene
While the museum focuses on woodworking and regional art, Asahikawa itself is a city with a growing appreciation for the arts. Exploring the city further might reveal smaller galleries or public art installations. For those interested in a broader cultural experience, combining a visit to the museum with exploring the city's other attractions, such as the Asahiyama Zoo, can make for a well-rounded itinerary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit