Aomori Museum of Art
青森県立美術館
“I was overwhelmed by the scale of the building and the unique collection of works on display. ”- Nene Sato
- Nene Sato
Foundation and Inception:
Opened in 2006, the museum was designed to celebrate Aomori’s rich cultural heritage and foster contemporary artistic exploration.
The building was constructed near the Sannai-Maruyama Historical Site, a Jōmon-era archaeological site dating back over 4,000 years, reflecting the deep historical roots of the area.
Architectural Vision:
Designed by Japanese architect Jun Aoki, the museum’s structure mimics the earthy tones and forms of the nearby Sannai-Maruyama ruins, integrating art and history.
Connection to Aomori:
The museum reflects Aomori's identity by showcasing local artists, such as the famous contemporary artist Yoshitomo Nara.
Symbolic Works:
“Aomori Dog”: A signature piece by Yoshitomo Nara, this giant sculpture embodies the museum’s playful yet profound artistic essence.
Marc Chagall: The museum houses a collection of Chagall’s stage design works, including pieces for the ballet Aleko.
Local and Contemporary Art:
It features a significant focus on artists from Aomori and Tohoku, showcasing works that explore regional themes, such as folklore, landscapes, and traditions.
Integration of History and Art:
The museum bridges ancient and modern culture, providing insight into the Jomon period through its proximity to the Sannai-Maruyama site and highlighting contemporary artistic efforts.
Community Engagement:
Offers a range of cultural and educational activities, including workshops, lectures, and special exhibitions designed to connect visitors with Aomori’s artistic legacy.
This video explains the connections with Yoshitomo Nara (Japanese only).
Here are some YouTube videos.
This video introduces the architecture and facilities (Japanese only).
【Address】
〒038-0021 185 Chikano, Yasuda, Aomori-shi, Aomori
TEL 017-783-3000
FAX 017-783-5244
MAIL bijutsukan@pref.aomori.lg.jp
【From JR Aomori Station】
20 min. by bus bound for "Sannai Maruyama Iseki"
The Bus Stop: "Kenritsu-bijutsukan-mae"
【From JR Shin-Aomori Station】
10 min. by bus called "Nebutan Go"
The Bus Stop: "Kenritsu-bijutsukan-mae"
【From Aomori Airport】
30 mins by car
【Highway】
5 mins. from Aomori I.C. on the Tohoku Expressway
9:30 – 17:00
*Final Admission 30 minutes before closing.
The 2nd and 4th Mondays, and 12/26 – 1/1, except for National Holidays on Monday, in which case the museum opens on the holiday and closes the following Tuesday instead. We may also irregularly close during the temporary exhibitions.
─ 700yen (560yen) for adults
─ 400yen (320yen) for college students
─ free for High school students and younger
Visiting this museum, I was overwhelmed by the scale of the building and the unique collection of works on display. One of the strengths of this museum is that you can see the architecture, which blends in with the Aomori landscape, and the works of Yoshitomo Nara, who is one of Japan's greatest artists who was born in Aomori. I visited in spring, but I think the snowy landscape in the winter would make this museum even more attractive.