21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art Kanazawa
A circular architectural marvel showcasing dynamic contemporary art, famous for its interactive 'Swimming Pool' installation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene viewing
21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art Kanazawa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A circular architectural marvel showcasing dynamic contemporary art, famous for its interactive 'Swimming Pool' installation.
"The building is spectacular and can alone justify a visit."
🎯 Book the Pool in Advance
Free reservations are essential for the 'Swimming Pool' exhibit. Book online to guarantee your spot!
🗺️ Grab a Museum Map
The open layout can be confusing. A map helps navigate to all the must-see exhibits and installations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Swimming Pool
Ground floor
Walk beneath a shimmering pool of water, an illusionary masterpiece by Leandro Erlich. A truly unforgettable art experience.

The Building Itself
Entire museum
A circular, glass-walled architectural marvel by SANAA, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. A work of art in its own right.

Rotating Exhibitions
Various galleries
Discover engaging displays of contemporary Japanese and international art, from modern paintings to photography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for the Iconic Pool
Navigate the Unique Layout
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book the Pool in Advance
Free reservations are essential for the 'Swimming Pool' exhibit. Book online to guarantee your spot!
🗺️ Grab a Museum Map
The open layout can be confusing. A map helps navigate to all the must-see exhibits and installations.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the unique architecture.
📸 Pool Photos are Key
The 'Swimming Pool' is incredibly photogenic. Plan your visit around your photo opportunities.
Allocating time in Kanazawa
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book the Pool in Advance
Free reservations are essential for the 'Swimming Pool' exhibit. Book online to guarantee your spot!
🗺️ Grab a Museum Map
The open layout can be confusing. A map helps navigate to all the must-see exhibits and installations.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the unique architecture.
📸 Pool Photos are Key
The 'Swimming Pool' is incredibly photogenic. Plan your visit around your photo opportunities.
💰 Student Discounts Available
If you're a student, bring your ID for an affordable entry fee to special exhibitions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the museum's spectacular modern architecture and the unique 'Swimming Pool' installation, calling it a must-visit. While the layout can be confusing and some find ticket prices a bit steep for the size, the engaging exhibitions and proximity to downtown make it a highly recommended destination.
"The world renowned pool piece! Extra modern architecture design! Intriguing exhibitions! Extremely close to downtown! What other can you ask for? The pool piece itself needs a few hours of waiting, but we managed to get back after went back to hotel for some rest."
Steve Pei
"Amazing museum. The building is spectacular and can alone justify a visit. Exhibitions will of course vary but the swimming pool is really cool. Advance booking (free) via museum website is needed to visit the swimming pool. There is a discount if you buy tickets in advance. The public area is local arts and craft. Museum shop is smaller than many other museums."
Jacob Falck
"I visited when the main and special exhibition - as a student this only cost ¥800 which is quite affordable for an art gallery! I found the exhibitions engaging and I appreciated the information on each artist featured. As it was raining, the swimming pool was unfortunately closed. One thing I must note is that the layout of the museum is quite confusing - there isn’t a set route and I found it difficult to figure out how to access some areas, even when using the map. I’m sure there are some sections I may have missed. But overall, I really enjoyed the art, especially those featuring local artists of Japan!"
Isabelle Martin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is easily accessible. From Kanazawa Station, you can take a local bus (like the Kanazawa Loop Bus) to the 'Hirosaka/21st Century Museum' stop. It's also a pleasant walk from the station for those who enjoy a stroll.
Yes, there is parking available on-site, which can be convenient if you're arriving by car.
The museum is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring ramps and elevators to accommodate visitors with mobility needs.
The museum is extremely close to downtown Kanazawa, making it a convenient destination. Many visitors find it an easy walk from central areas.
Absolutely! The museum is close to other popular Kanazawa sites like Kenrokuen Garden and the D.T. Suzuki Museum, making it easy to plan a day of sightseeing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While general admission to the public areas is free, special exhibitions and the 'Swimming Pool' installation require advance booking. It's highly recommended to book these online to secure your spot.
General admission to the museum's public spaces is free. However, special exhibitions and the 'Swimming Pool' installation have separate ticket prices, which can be quite affordable, especially for students.
The museum typically opens around 10 AM and closes at 6 PM, with last admission usually at 5:30 PM. It's best to check the official website for the most current hours, as they can vary seasonally or for special events.
The 'Swimming Pool' exhibit requires advance booking and may be closed during certain times or for maintenance. Always check the museum's official website for availability and booking information.
Yes, student discounts are often available for special exhibitions, making it a more affordable option for younger visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the public areas and for most exhibitions, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Always look for signage indicating specific restrictions.
The 'Swimming Pool' installation is a prime photo opportunity. The building's unique architecture, especially the circular design and glass walls, also offers many visually striking angles.
Yes, you can take photos inside the 'Swimming Pool' exhibit, but be mindful of other visitors and the instructions provided. It's a very popular spot for capturing unique shots.
The main rules usually involve no flash photography and no tripods to avoid disturbing other visitors or damaging artworks. Some special exhibitions might have stricter rules.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is excellent for most areas. For the 'Swimming Pool,' a wide-angle lens can help capture the full effect.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
It's an interactive installation by Leandro Erlich that creates the illusion of a swimming pool filled with water, where visitors can walk underneath. It's a highly unique and popular art piece.
To fully appreciate the exhibits and the architecture, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you plan to spend significant time in the 'Swimming Pool' or at special exhibitions, allow more time.
The museum's circular, open-plan design is architecturally interesting but can be confusing. It's recommended to grab a map to navigate effectively.
While not always advertised, inquire at the information desk about any available guided tours or audio guides that can enhance your understanding of the artworks.
The museum focuses on contemporary art, featuring a mix of Japanese and international artists. You'll find paintings, sculptures, installations, photography, and more.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a cafe that serves local delicacies, including Noto beef, as well as Western and Japanese dishes. It's a convenient spot for a break.
The museum is located close to downtown Kanazawa, offering a wide array of restaurants and cafes serving local cuisine, from traditional Japanese to international flavors.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition halls. It's best to consume them in designated areas or before entering. The museum cafe is an option for refreshments.
While specific options can vary, many Japanese cafes offer vegetable-based dishes. It's advisable to check the menu upon arrival or inquire with the staff.
The museum shop offers a selection of art-related merchandise, books, and local crafts. While it might be smaller than some other museum shops, it can be a good place to find unique souvenirs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Book the 'Swimming Pool' in advance to avoid disappointment.
* Grab a map to help navigate the unique layout, especially with little ones.
* Take advantage of the free public areas for a more relaxed exploration.
* Consider visiting during weekday mornings for fewer crowds.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Key for art enthusiasts:
* Check the museum's website for current and upcoming special exhibitions.
* Allocate ample time to explore the diverse range of media, from paintings and sculptures to installations and photography.
* Don't miss the chance to experience Leandro Erlich's 'Swimming Pool' for a truly interactive art moment.
📸 Photography Buffs
Photography tips:
* Book the 'Swimming Pool' and plan your shots.
* Utilize the natural light streaming through the glass walls.
* Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the scale of the architecture.
* Be mindful of no-flash policies in exhibition areas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel: SANAA's Vision
The fluidity and transparency are central to SANAA's concept. Unlike imposing structures that dictate a viewing path, this museum invites interaction. The glass walls allow natural light to flood the interior and offer views of the park, integrating the museum into its urban landscape. This approach fosters a more relaxed and personal encounter with art, moving away from the formal, often intimidating, atmosphere of older institutions. The building's design is a testament to contemporary architectural innovation and its ability to enhance the appreciation of art.
Experiencing Leandro Erlich's 'Swimming Pool'
To experience the 'Swimming Pool,' advance booking is essential, and it's free of charge. Visitors often report a waiting time even with reservations, so planning your visit around your booked slot is crucial. The instructions within the exhibit can sometimes feel a bit confusing due to the unique nature of the installation, but the payoff is an unforgettable artistic illusion. It's a testament to how contemporary art can engage audiences in playful and thought-provoking ways, making it a must-see attraction.
Navigating the Museum's Unique Layout
This open-plan design means that different exhibitions and permanent installations are spread across various sections. You might find yourself moving between indoor galleries and outdoor spaces seamlessly. The public areas, which are free to access, showcase local arts and crafts and offer a more relaxed experience. Be prepared to wander and discover; the museum encourages a personal journey through its collection, making each visit a unique exploration.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit