A massive collection gathered over seven decades
Hidden away in a building overlooking the Imperial Palace , the Idemitsu Museum of Arts showcases the artistic collections of petroleum magnate Sazo Idemitsu, who spent his life collecting Japanese and Chinese art.
Quick Facts
Themed exhibitions are held 5-6 times every year with representative works from the Idemitsu collection on display.
The museum has a year-round exhibition of major works by Georges Rouault, the French master of religious paintings
How to Get There
You can reach the museum by train or taxi.
The museum is a three-minute walk from Hibiya Station or a five-minute walk from Yurakucho Station. It is housed on the ninth floor of the Imperial Theater, between Tokyo International Forum and the Imperial Palace moat.
Art with a view of the palace
The Idemitsu Museum of Arts is based on the lifetime collection by Sazo Idemitsu and has continued to expand his collection with an impressive selection of more than 10000 pieces of Asian art. The Japanese paintings and calligraphy are particularly prized. You'll also find lovely examples of Chinese and Japanese ceramics along with Western paintings in the mix.
As the exhibits change according to the theme of the exhibition, it is best to check the museum website before your visit.
Pieces of pottery fired long ago
In addition to the themed exhibits, the unique Sherd Room is worth a visit. Here you can see fragments of pottery collected from kilns across the world. After your tour, relax in the armchairs by the windows for a bird's-eye view of the vast Imperial Gardens.
The latest information may differ, so please check the official website.
* The information on this page may be subject to change due to COVID-19.