Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum 100th Anniversary Exhibition: Tracing a Century

Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum 100th Anniversary Exhibition: "Opening Beginnings - 100 Years of the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum"

The Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, a cultural cornerstone in the Ueno and Okachimachi area, celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2026. To commemorate this significant milestone, a special exhibition titled "Opening Beginnings - 100 Years of the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum" will be held. This exhibition focuses on the museum's century-long history since its establishment as the Tokyo Prefectural Museum of Art in 1926, highlighting the activities and people who have shaped its journey and the evolution of art.

The Museum's Journey and Role

Established thanks to a donation from coal merchant Keitaro Sato, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum opened its doors as Japan's first public art museum. Initially serving as a venue for art associations' exhibitions, it also became a prominent stage for legendary avant-garde art shows and exhibitions of masterpieces. Furthermore, the museum pioneered initiatives such as art lectures and the establishment of a library, actively providing spaces for citizens to engage with and deepen their understanding of art.

Unveiling a Century of History

Through its archives and valuable materials, this exhibition offers an opportunity to re-examine the museum's history and its role in society. Visitors can experience the museum's trajectory, which has evolved from its original building to its current structure, all while striving to be a "place for creation and coexistence." The exhibition will showcase the museum's significance as a vibrant hub where artists and audiences interact, and its vision for the future.

Event Details

Dates: November 19, 2026 (Thu) – January 11, 2027 (Mon, Holiday)
Venue: Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, Gallery B (8-36 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo)
Opening Hours: 9:30–17:30 (Fridays until 20:00)
Closed: December 7 (Mon), December 21 (Mon) – January 3, 2027 (Sun)
Admission: Free

Access

Within walking distance of JR Ueno Station, Tokyo Metro Ueno Station, and JR Okachimachi Station.

Official Checkpoint

For detailed exhibition content and event schedules, please refer to the official website.