Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art

The Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art (兵庫県立美術館) is an art museum located in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, on the shore of Osaka Bay. Designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, the museum opened its doors in 2002.

The museum’s collection focuses primarily on modern and contemporary Japanese art, with a particular emphasis on artists with ties to the Kansai region. However, it also includes works from other Asian countries and Western art, providing a comprehensive overview of diverse artistic expressions.

The museum’s permanent collection boasts over 10,000 works of art, encompassing paintings, sculptures, prints, photographs, and ceramics. Notable artists represented in the collection include Yasuo Kuniyoshi, Tsuguharu Foujita, Yayoi Kusama, and Hiroshi Sugimoto, among many others. The museum also regularly hosts special exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing works by both established and emerging artists from Japan and abroad.

The museum building itself is a work of art, designed by Tadao Ando in his signature minimalist style. The building’s modernist architecture, characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and extensive use of concrete, creates a unique and contemplative atmosphere. Its large windows offer stunning views of the surrounding sea and cityscape, further enhancing the visitor experience.

In addition to its exhibitions and collections, the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art offers a variety of educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages. These programs aim to deepen understanding and appreciation of art and culture, providing opportunities to engage with the museum’s collection in interactive and educational ways. The museum also features a cafe and a museum shop where visitors can relax and purchase art-related merchandise.

Getting there

Here are the main ways to access the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art:

By Train

From Sannomiya Station:

• Take the Hanshin Main Line to Iwaya Station (4 minutes, 160 yen)
• Walk about 10 minutes from Iwaya Station to the museum

Alternatively:

• Take the JR Kobe Line to Nada Station (3 minutes, 140 yen from Sannomiya)
• Walk about 15 minutes from Nada Station to the museum

By Bus

From Sannomiya:

• Kobe City Bus No. 29 or 101 (210 yen, 10-15 minutes)
• Hanshin Bus direct to HAT Kobe (210 yen, 10 minutes)

From Oji-koen:

• Kobe City Bus No. 100 (210 yen, 10 minutes)

By Car

From Osaka:

• Take National Highway 2 or 43 westbound
• Turn left at “Iwayanakamachi 4” intersection

From Sannomiya:

• Take National Highway 2 eastbound
• Turn right at “Iwayanakamachi 4” intersection

Parking

• Underground parking available
• 400 yen for the first two hours, then 200 yen every 30 minutes
• 80 spaces (including 2 for disabled visitors)
• Open 9:30-19:00 (until 21:00 on Fridays and Saturdays during special exhibitions)

Details

Hours	10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Reception closes 30 minutes before closing time. Closed on Mondays.
Admission	Adults: 500 yen Age 70 and above:250 yen University Students: 400 yen
Phone	+81 78-262-1011
Address	1 Chome-1-1 Wakinohamakaigandori, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-0073