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Explore Tokyo's Art Scene: 5 Galleries in Aoyama, Omotesando, and Harajuku
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Tokyo's Minami-Aoyama, Omotesando, and Harajuku districts provide an ideal art-filled stroll. We introduce five art galleries with chic designs and exciting art exhibits.
The Tokyo districts of Minami-Aoyama, Omotesando, and Harajuku are renowned for their excellent art galleries where art, architecture, and design intersect, offering visitors a window into Tokyo's history through artistic expression.
From the popular Espace Louis Vuitton to the hidden art spaces tucked away in alleys, all of them offer free admission.
Next time you visit Omotesando, do allocate some time to enjoy art on a delightful afternoon walk.
5 Art Galleries in Omotesando - Aoyama
1. Akio Nagasawa
2. hpgrp Gallery Tokyo
3. SPIRAL
4. Espace Louis Vuitton Tokyo
5. Gallery Dojunkai
How to Get to Omotesando and Aoyama
How to Get to Omotesando and Aoyama
Photo by Pixta
If you start from JR Harajuku Station, you will be walking from Harajuku, then Omotesando, and finally reach Minami-Aoyama. The stroll from Harajuku to Minami-Aoyama typically takes around 15-20 minutes.
Alternatively, you can get off at Omotesando Station or Meiji-jingumae Station, both served by Tokyo Metro lines.
Those who are comfortable with walking a bit longer can depart from Shibuya Station, passing through Minami-Aoyama, Omotesando, and ultimately arriving at Harajuku.
Minami-Aoyama
Photo by Pixta
There are three prominent galleries and exhibition spaces in Minami-Aoyama: Akio Nagasawa, hpgrp Gallery, and SPIRAL. We introduce them in detail below.
1. Akio Nagasawa
Akio Nagasawa is an art gallery conveniently situated just a 5-minute walk away from Omotesando Station. The exhibition space can be found on the second floor.
Akio Nagasawa is a distinguished publisher with a specialization in photography, showcasing the works of both domestic and international photographers. Presently, they have exhibition spaces not only in Aoyama but also in Ginza. If you have a passion for photography, this gallery is a must-visit!
One of the memorable events held here was an exhibition of works by acclaimed photographer Daido Moriyama in 2018. The exhibited works were captured during Moriyama's visits to Uwajima in Ehime Prefecture in 2004 and 2012 and included several pieces making their debut display.
Hotels near Akio Nagasawa Gallery Aoyama
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2. hpgrp Gallery Tokyo
Located on the first basement floor within Ohararyu Hall, hpgrp Gallery Tokyo showcases a wide array of artworks encompassing art, music, fashion, and more. This exhibition space provides an opportunity to explore various art forms and expressions.
hpgrp Gallery extends beyond Tokyo, with three additional locations within the city and a presence in New York as well.
At hpgrp Gallery, a new exhibition theme is introduced almost every month. Although the exhibition space itself may not be large, it offers a diverse selection of art.
Moreover, it is conveniently situated in close proximity to Akio Nagasawa. It is strongly recommended to include visits to both galleries as part of your art tour in Omotesando!
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3. SPIRAL
SPIRAL, located closest to Omotesando Station, was established in 1985 as a multifunctional building that seamlessly integrates with daily life.
Designed by the esteemed Japanese architect Fumihiko Maki, the building embodies the essence of Japanese modernism prevalent in the 1980s. As you explore deeper into the building, you will be captivated by the awe-inspiring spiral ramp.
Aside from dedicated exhibition spaces, the building also features a delightful café on the first floor. During your visit, you may notice many visitors indulging in afternoon tea there.
Continuing along the spiral ramp, you will arrive at a creative boutique offering an eclectic selection of items such as fragrances, stationery, and more.
As you conclude your exploration of the creative shops, you will discover a row of seats. This area provides an excellent vantage point to admire the beautiful scenery of Omotesando, perfect for capturing memorable photographs!
Hotels near SPIRAL
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Omotesando and Harajuku
Photo by Pixta
The galleries in Tokyo's Omotesando area often host major art exhibitions and many of these events have free admission.
The exhibitions usually rotate every five days to a month, showcasing a diverse range of art styles encompassing watercolors, sculptures, photography, and modern art. Sometimes you may even have the opportunity to meet the artists in person at the events!
Omotesando and Harajuku are home to two prominent exhibition venues, including Espace Louis Vuitton Tokyo and Gallery Dojunkai.
4. Espace Louis Vuitton Tokyo
In Tokyo, Louis Vuitton operates galleries in Omotesando and Ginza. Both of these galleries exude exceptional style, and if you have the chance, they are worth a visit.
To access the Espace Louis Vuitton Tokyo, enter the Louis Vuitton store and ask the friendly staff to guide you to the exhibition room. Inside the store, to the right, there is an elevator that will take you up to the seventh floor, where the gallery is situated.
WOLFGANG TILLMANS - MOMENTS OF LIFE Exhibition view at Espace Louis Vuitton Tokyo (2023) Courtesy of Fondation Louis Vuitton ©Wolfgang Tillmans. Photo credits: © Jérémie Souteyrat / Louis Vuitton. Picture courtesy of PR Times
One of the recent exhibitions held at Espace Louis Vuitton Tokyo was "Moments of Life" featuring works by Wolfgang Tillmans.
Tillmans considers photography as a socially engaged art directly connected to the real world, depicting subjects with empathy.
He is known for works that capture the vulnerability of the body, casual poses of his friends at rave parties and in the gay community, and the intimate moments of individuals in their daily lives.
Every exhibition held at Espace Louis Vuitton Tokyo is stimulating and inspiring so do visit this location on your art walk in Omotesando.
Hotels near Espace Louis Vuitton Tokyo
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5. Gallery Dojunkai
Amidst the modern architectural landscape of Omotesando, the structure known as Dojunkan stands out somewhat conspicuously. However, this building holds significant historical value.
In 1923, after the Great Kanto Earthquake, it was constructed using non-combustible materials such as reinforced concrete, considering that the most severe damage during the earthquake resulted from fires due to Japan's prevalence of wooden structures. Initially, the Dojunkan served as an upscale residential area for military personnel and professors.
Throughout the years, it faced multiple fires but miraculously remained standing, highlighting its importance. When architect Tadao Ando designed Omotesando Hills, he ensured the preservation of this old building.
The Dojunkan and Omotesando Hills are linked by a passage, symbolizing their historical and architectural significance, though the passage is usually inaccessible.
Gallery Dojunkai is located within Omotesando Hills Dojunkan. The exhibitions held here often showcase the works of emerging artists, creating a captivating contrast between the nostalgic atmosphere of this historic building and the new trends in contemporary art.
Hotels near Gallery Dojunkai
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Enjoy Art in Omotesando
Omotesando and Harajuku are more than just destinations for luxury shopping and fine dining; they also provide a serene atmosphere for leisurely strolls. You can discover art galleries, peruse bookstores, and when fatigue sets in, discover cozy cafés nestled in hidden lanes.
Despite the lively surroundings of Harajuku Station, a mere 10-minute walk will transport you away from the crowds. As you wander through these charming alleyways and explore remarkable art and design spaces, you will encounter a distinct and tranquil travel experience.
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Main image courtesy of PR Times
桃園出生，現居東京。喜歡旅行，瑜珈，藝術，和未知的相遇。
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