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Ōta Memorial Museum of Art: A Journey into Ukiyo-e

Discover the enchanting world of Ukiyo-e at the Ōta Memorial Museum of Art in Harajuku, Tokyo. Monthly exhibitions showcase stunning woodblock prints.

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Nestled in Tokyo's vibrant Harajuku district, the Ōta Memorial Museum of Art is a sanctuary dedicated to ukiyo-e, the captivating Japanese woodblock prints of the Edo period. Founded in 1980, the museum showcases a vast collection of over 14,000 pieces, offering visitors a glimpse into the "floating world" of Japanese art and culture.

A brief summary to Ōta Memorial Museum of Art

  • Tuesday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website for the current exhibition theme to align with your interests.
  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, to avoid crowds and have a more intimate viewing experience.
  • Note that the museum only accepts cash for admission and purchases.
  • Be aware that photography is not allowed inside the museum.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Ōta Memorial Museum of Art is easily accessible by public transport. From Meiji-jingumae Station (Chiyoda and Fukutoshin Subway Lines), take Exit 5 and walk straight on Omotesando St. Make a right turn just before the Softbank cellphone store; the museum will be on the corner. The museum is also a short walk from Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line). Take the Omotesando Exit, walk to Omotesando Street, and turn away from the park. The museum is on a side street about a 5-minute walk from the corner. Subway fare from Shinjuku to Meiji-jingumae Station is approximately ¥200.

  • Walking

    From the Omotesando area, the museum is easily reachable by foot. Head towards Harajuku and look for the intersection of Omotesando and Meiji Street. Find the Softbank cellphone store and turn onto the side street just before it. The museum will be on the corner. Walking from Harajuku Station takes about 5-6 minutes.

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Discover more about Ōta Memorial Museum of Art

The Ōta Memorial Museum of Art, established in 1980, stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of ukiyo-e. Ukiyo-e, meaning "pictures of the floating world," flourished during the Edo period (1603-1868) and captured the essence of Japanese life, from kabuki actors and courtesans to landscapes and scenes of everyday life. The museum's foundation lies in the extensive collection of Seizo Ota V, a businessman who passionately amassed over 14,000 ukiyo-e prints and related works. The museum's collection includes masterpieces by renowned artists such as Katsushika Hokusai, Utagawa Hiroshige, and Kitagawa Utamaro. Exhibitions are rotated monthly to preserve the delicate prints and offer diverse viewing experiences, often focusing on specific themes or artists. This approach ensures that each visit offers a fresh perspective on the art form and its cultural significance. The museum also organizes lectures and offers grants to those interested in researching ukiyo-e. Stepping into the Ōta Memorial Museum is like stepping back in time. The intimate setting allows for close appreciation of the intricate details and vibrant colors of the ukiyo-e prints. Beyond the art itself, the museum provides insights into the historical context and techniques behind ukiyo-e, enriching the visitor experience. The museum is located in Harajuku, a place known for being on the cutting edge of modern trends, to attract a younger audience to appreciate the art form.

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