Nara Prefectural Museum of Art

The Nara Prefectural Museum of Art is an art museum in Nara that houses around 4,100 works by Japanese artists from different periods. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and other artistic objects that are presented regularly in changing exhibitions.

The museum was founded in 1973 and designed by architect Mitsuo Katayama to support cultural development in the Nara region. Its establishment was part of a broader effort to position Nara as a cultural center.

The museum displays traditional artworks from the Nara region alongside contemporary pieces that rotate regularly, showing various artistic directions. Visitors can encounter Japanese paintings and sculptures spanning different historical periods.

The museum is easy to find with clear signage and visitors can move through the exhibition spaces without difficulty. Information about opening hours and admission rates is available on the website or on-site.

The museum provides English labels for most of the artworks on display, which helps international visitors understand the collection. It also runs regular family workshops where people can learn traditional Japanese art techniques hands-on.

Location: Nara

Inception: 1973

Architects: Mitsuo Katayama

Official opening: March 1973

Address: 10-6 Noboriojicho, Nara, 630-8213

Phone: +81742233968

Website: https://pref.nara.jp/11842.htm

GPS coordinates: 34.68586,135.83258

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:05