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Nitori Museum of Art: A Glimpse into Otaru's Golden Age

Discover art and history in a beautifully preserved former bank, showcasing a diverse collection from Japan and beyond.

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Housed in the beautifully renovated former Hokkaido Takushoku Bank, the Nitori Museum of Art showcases a diverse collection of Japanese and Western art, including paintings, sculptures, and stunning Art Nouveau glasswork. The museum reflects Otaru's rich history as a thriving economic center.

A brief summary to Nitori Museum of Art

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the late spring to early autumn (May to October) for pleasant weather and local festivals.
  • Check the museum's website for temporary closures or changes in opening hours due to special exhibitions.
  • Consider visiting the other museums in the Otaru Art Village, including the Stained Glass Museum and the Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Otaru Station, the Nitori Museum of Art is approximately a 10-minute walk. Head east from the station towards the Otaru Canal. The museum is located near the canal in the Ironai district. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From Otaru Station, take a local bus towards the Otaru Art Village. The bus ride is about 5 minutes. Get off at the Otaru Art Village bus stop, which is right by the museum. The fare is around ¥220. A one-day bus pass is also available for ¥750, useful if you plan to visit multiple attractions via bus.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Otaru Station to the Nitori Museum of Art takes about 5 minutes. The estimated fare for this short trip is ¥950 - ¥1200.

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Discover more about Nitori Museum of Art

The Nitori Museum of Art, located in Otaru, Hokkaido, is a cultural gem residing within the walls of the former Hokkaido Takushoku Bank. This architectural landmark, once a vital part of Otaru's prosperous banking district (nicknamed the 'Wall Street of the North'), now serves as a stunning backdrop for a diverse art collection. The museum's collection features a blend of Japanese and Western art. Visitors can explore Japanese paintings by renowned artists like Taikan Yokoyama and Gyokudo Kawai, as well as Western art by Japanese artist Ryusei Kishida and international artists. Wooden sculptures by Koun Takamura and his disciples are also on display. A highlight is the Art Nouveau Art Déco Glass Gallery, which features a collection of lamps. The museum also exhibits stained glass artwork by Louis Comfort Tiffany. The building itself is a significant historical artifact. Designed in the Renaissance style by Kenichi Yahashi, who was also involved in the construction of the House of Parliament, the former bank boasts impressive cylindrical pillars and a colonnade. The two-story atrium preserves elements of the building's banking past, including a second-floor gallery corridor inspired by American bank architecture. The museum is operated by Nitori, a leading Japanese furniture and interior design company. The company's chairman, Akio Nitori, established the museum to share his passion for art with the public.

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