Towada Art Center

The Towada Art Center (十和田市現代美術館) is a contemporary art museum located in the city of Towada in Aomori Prefecture, Japan. The museum, designed by architect Ryue Nishizawa, was opened in 2008 as part of the city’s initiative to revitalize itself through art.

The museum’s collection focuses on contemporary art, featuring works by both Japanese and international artists. The collection encompasses a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, video, installation, and performance art.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Towada Art Center hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing the work of established and emerging artists.

One of the museum’s most notable features is its unique architecture, designed to harmonize with Towada’s natural environment. The building is characterized by a series of large, overlapping shells that create a striking, undulating roofline. The museum’s art installations are not confined to the exhibition rooms but extend to the hallways, courtyards, and even the surrounding park, creating a seamless integration of art and nature.

The Towada Art Center also houses a cafe and a museum shop, providing visitors with additional opportunities to enjoy their visit.

Getting there

By Train and Bus

1. Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Shichinohe-Towada Station
2. From Shichinohe-Towada Station, take a bus bound for Towada City
3. Get off at the “Towada Art Center” bus stop (about 40 minutes, 660 yen)

By JR Bus

• Take the JR Bus bound for Lake Towada from Hachinohe Station
• Travel time: About 40 minutes
• Fare: 1,330 yen
• Japan Rail Pass and JR East Tohoku Area Pass can be used

Details

Hours	9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Reception closes 30 minutes before closing time. Closed on Mondays.
Admission	Adults: 1,800 yen
Phone	+81 176-20-1127
Address	10-9 Nishi2bancho, Towada, Aomori 034-0082