The National Art Center Tokyo
A stunning architectural marvel hosting diverse, rotating art exhibitions, with a famous cafe from the anime 'Your Name'.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
The National Art Center Tokyo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning architectural marvel hosting diverse, rotating art exhibitions, with a famous cafe from the anime 'Your Name'.
"The building itself is a work of art, and the exhibitions are always top-notch!"
Check Exhibition Lineup
Always verify current exhibitions online; the center has no permanent collection. :mag:
Book Tickets in Advance
Consider buying tickets from Lawson's Loppi machines for quicker entry. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Architecture
Exterior and Atrium
A stunning glass facade and cone-shaped atrium create a mesmerizing, modern architectural marvel.
Salon de The ROND Cafe
3rd Floor
This unique cafe offers a magical ambiance, famously featured in the anime 'Your Name'.
Rotating Exhibitions
Various Galleries
Experience diverse Japanese and international art through constantly changing, high-quality temporary exhibitions.
Spiral Staircase
Atrium
An impressive spiral staircase offers a striking visual element and a popular photo opportunity.
Planning Your Visit
Check Exhibition Schedules
Consider Weekday Visits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Exhibition Lineup
Always verify current exhibitions online; the center has no permanent collection. :mag:
Book Tickets in Advance
Consider buying tickets from Lawson's Loppi machines for quicker entry. :ticket:
Capture the Architecture
The building itself is a masterpiece; don't miss photo ops of the facade and atrium.
Anime Fan Pilgrimage
Visit the Salon de The ROND cafe for a magical 'Your Name' anime filming location experience. :movie_camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Exhibition Lineup
Always verify current exhibitions online; the center has no permanent collection. :mag:
Book Tickets in Advance
Consider buying tickets from Lawson's Loppi machines for quicker entry. :ticket:
Capture the Architecture
The building itself is a masterpiece; don't miss photo ops of the facade and atrium.
Anime Fan Pilgrimage
Visit the Salon de The ROND cafe for a magical 'Your Name' anime filming location experience. :movie_camera:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the vast exhibition spaces. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning, modern architecture of The National Art Center Tokyo, often highlighting its unique glass facade and impressive atrium. The rotating exhibitions are generally well-received, offering diverse artistic experiences. The Salon de The ROND cafe is a popular spot, especially for fans of the anime 'Your Name'. Some visitors note that the lack of a permanent collection means checking exhibition schedules is essential.
"The National Art Center in Tokyo is an impressive place with its unique architecture and spacious design. I really enjoyed the variety of exhibitions, and the atmosphere felt calm and inspiring. The building itself is worth visiting, even if you’re not deeply into art. It’s also conveniently located near Roppongi, making it easy to include in a day trip around the area. A must-visit for art lovers and anyone looking for a beautiful cultural experience in Tokyo."
Pitiwat Pitipornpuwapat (Dook)
"The National Art Center in Tokyo is an architectural masterpiece in itself. With its strikingly futuristic design and spacious, light-filled interiors, the building feels like a work of art. The natural light streaming through the massive glass curtain walls creates a warm, tranquil atmosphere that enhances the entire experience.
One of the center’s unique features is that it does not have a permanent collection, meaning every visit offers a new and different exhibition. When I visited, a contemporary art exhibition was on display. Though the themes were complex, it offered fresh perspectives and left a lasting impression. The open layout, seating areas, and calming café inside the building also made it a perfect place to reflect and unwind after exploring the art.
Even on a rainy day, it’s a great place to visit, as you can stay completely sheltered while enjoying the space. The building’s design has a near-futuristic vibe—so much so that it felt like a location straight out of a sci-fi film, perhaps even something from Star Wars. It reminded me of the kind of pavilion I imagined as a child when dreaming about the Osaka Expo I never got to attend.
And even if you’re not there for a specific exhibit, just visiting to admire the architecture and enjoy a coffee at the café is satisfying in itself. Best of all, admission to the building is free. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone looking to enjoy art, architecture, and a peaceful escape from daily life."
shi du
"I usually go to museum when the weather isn’t good but seeing this museum bathed in sunlight was beautiful. I love this type of architecture so I highly recommend it. It was really peaceful. There’s various exhibition and most of them are free for students !
Also famous reference to the animated movie 「your name」."
Ava
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Art Center Tokyo is easily accessible by public transport. It's a short walk from Nogizaka Station (Chiyoda Line) or a slightly longer walk from Roppongi Station (Hibiya and Oedo Lines). Many visitors find Nogizaka Station the most convenient.
Yes, there is an underground parking lot available for visitors. However, it can get busy, especially during popular exhibition periods.
Taxis are a convenient option, and the address is well-known. Inform your driver that you are going to The National Art Center Tokyo (Kokuritsu Shinbijutsukan).
The Chiyoda Line to Nogizaka Station (Exit 6) is generally considered the most direct and convenient subway access.
Yes, signage is usually clear from Nogizaka Station, guiding you directly to the art center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While you can purchase tickets on-site, buying them in advance, especially from convenience stores like Lawson, can help you get in quicker and avoid potential queues.
Yes, tickets are available for purchase at the counter. On weekdays, queues are generally not an issue, but it's always a good idea to check for special events.
Opening hours typically vary by exhibition, but generally, the center is open from 10 AM to 6 PM, with the last entry at 5:30 PM. It's usually closed on Tuesdays. Always check the specific exhibition schedule.
Entry to the building and its public spaces is generally free. However, admission fees apply to specific temporary exhibitions.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or group bookings, depending on the exhibition. It's best to check the official website or the ticketing platform for details.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies vary by exhibition. Generally, photography is allowed in public areas and for certain exhibits, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Always look for signage.
The iconic glass facade, the striking cone-shaped atrium, and the spiral staircase are highly recommended for architectural photography.
Yes, visitors often take photos at the Salon de The ROND cafe, especially given its fame from the anime 'Your Name'.
Drone photography is strictly prohibited within and around the art center premises to ensure the safety and security of visitors and the building.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive architecture of the building. For interior shots, good low-light performance is beneficial.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining options available. The most famous is Salon de The ROND, a cafe on the 3rd floor with a unique ambiance. There's also a restaurant and a cafe on the 1st floor.
This cafe is known for its stunning, open, circular design and its appearance in the popular anime film 'Your Name', making it a popular spot for fans.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition areas. It's best to consume them in designated areas or before entering.
The restaurant typically offers a selection of Japanese and Western dishes, catering to a range of tastes.
Prices are comparable to other upscale cafes and restaurants in Tokyo. The Salon de The ROND might be slightly pricier due to its unique setting and popularity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Salon de The ROND cafe offers a unique spot for a break, and its connection to the anime 'Your Name' might appeal to older children or teens. It's advisable to check the current exhibitions for any that might be particularly engaging for children, though most are geared towards adult art appreciation. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The spiral staircase is a particularly popular subject. On a sunny day, the natural light filtering through the glass creates dynamic shadows and highlights, making for incredible photos.
Remember to check photography rules for specific exhibitions, as they can vary. The Salon de The ROND cafe also offers a unique visual element, especially for those interested in its anime connection. 🎬 Anime Fans
Many fans make a special trip to experience this iconic spot, taking photos and soaking in the atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel
The design emphasizes transparency and fluidity, making the building itself an artwork. Visitors often praise the building's aesthetic appeal, noting how it complements the art displayed within. The interplay of light and shadow, especially on a sunny day, enhances the visual experience.
The structure is not just a container for art but an integral part of the visitor's journey, offering unique perspectives and photo opportunities at every turn. Beyond the main atrium, the building features a dramatic spiral staircase that adds to its architectural grandeur.
The overall design aims to create a welcoming and inspiring environment for art appreciation, making it a destination for both art lovers and architecture enthusiasts. Anime Pilgrimage Site
This connection has turned the art center into a popular pilgrimage site for anime enthusiasts. Many visitors specifically seek out the cafe to capture photos and immerse themselves in the world of 'Your Name'.
The cafe's unique circular design and open space contribute to its memorable appearance in the film, making the visit a nostalgic and exciting experience for fans. While the cafe is a major draw for anime fans, it's important to remember that the art center is primarily a venue for diverse art exhibitions. Visitors can enjoy the anime connection while also exploring the world-class art on display.
Navigating Exhibitions
It is crucial to check the center's official website for the current exhibition schedule before planning your visit. This will allow you to see which shows are on display and decide which ones align with your interests.
When you arrive, be sure to check for any specific photography rules for the exhibition you are visiting, as these can vary.
The diverse and ever-changing nature of its exhibitions makes The National Art Center Tokyo a consistently exciting destination for art lovers. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit