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Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art

Opened in 2002 as a symbol of cultural recovery from the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, this is one of Western Japan's largest art museums. Designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, the building features distinctive spaces using exposed concrete and natural light. The museum houses over 10,000 works, focusing on modern sculpture, prints, and works by Hyogo-related artists.

Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art

GALLERY

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WHY VISIT

A masterpiece of Tadao Ando architecture standing along the waterfront of HAT Kobe. This museum, symbolizing recovery from the earthquake, captivates visitors with its unique space where the coldness of concrete meets warm natural light. Sculptures scattered inside and outside, and the landscape where the sea and architecture unite, offer a special experience where art and architecture harmonize.

🏛️

Tadao Ando Architecture

Ando's largest architectural work featuring exposed concrete and natural light. Characterized by a maze-like spatial composition

🎨

Rich Collection

Over 10,000 works including masterpieces by Rodin, Picasso, Kandinsky, and Warhol

🌊

Outdoor Sculptures & Waterfront

Free outdoor sculptures including Kenji Yanobe's 'Sun Sister Nagisa'. Beautiful scenery where sea and architecture unite

📐

Ando Gallery

Free gallery on the 2nd floor offering deep insights into Tadao Ando's architectural world

☕

Café & Museum Shop

Relax after art appreciation at 1F 'ROUND POINT CAFE'. Museum shop offers original merchandise

PHOTOGRAPHY GUIDE

BEST SHOTS

  • — The spiral staircase inside offers beautiful photos from both above and below
  • — Compositions highlighting the contrast between concrete walls and natural light
  • — Outdoor 'Sun Sister Nagisa' (approx. 6m tall) with waterfront scenery
  • — Combination of building exterior and waterside landscape
  • — Architectural detail photography at Ando Gallery
  • — Full view of the museum from Nagisa Park

BEST TIMING

  • — Morning hours with natural light are ideal for architectural photography
  • — Weekdays are less crowded, allowing leisurely photography
  • — Waterfront areas offer particularly beautiful light in the evening
  • — Collection exhibitions are held year-round

Combining the exterior architecture and waterside scenery creates even more impressive shots. The outdoor sculpture area can be photographed without admission fee. Photography restrictions inside vary by exhibition, so it's recommended to check in advance. Ando Gallery (2F) is a free area where photography is allowed.

ESSENTIALS

Opening Hours
10:00-18:00 (Last entry 17:30) | Closed: Mondays (or next day if national holiday), Year-end/New Year, Maintenance days
cost
Collection Exhibition: Adults ¥550, University students ¥400, High school students and below free | Special exhibitions: Varies by exhibition | Discounts for seniors (70+) and disabled visitors | Free admission on November 3 (Culture Day) and Kansai Culture Days (mid-November)
Best Time
Recommended on weekday mornings. Enjoy artworks and architecture in a calm atmosphere while avoiding crowds. Special exhibitions are worth visiting even on weekends. Free admission on November 3 (Culture Day) and mid-November Kansai Culture Days.
Suggested Duration
About 2 hours
Access
10-min walk south from JR Nada Station South Exit | 8-min walk south from Hanshin Iwaya Station (Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art) | 15-min walk south from Hanshin Kasugano-michi Station | Immediately from Kobe City Bus routes 29/101 'Kenritsu Bijutsukan-mae' stop
Accessibility
Barrier-free facility throughout. Elevators available. Wheelchair rental provided. Multi-purpose restrooms installed.
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