21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa 金沢２１世紀美術館

Forward-thinking contemporary art museum showcasing artists from Japan and abroad

The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is a progressive museum situated in the center of Kanazawa. Entrances dotting the entire circumference of the round main building evoke its mission of being “a museum open to the world.” Inside the museum building, there are several permanent exhibits that remain popular with patrons. Quarterly temporary exhibits featuring domestic and international artists constitute the majority of the museum’s gallery space.

The outdoor exhibits and surrounding lawns make the museum grounds feel akin to a family park. Interactivity is key to the museum experience, exemplified by art installations that purposefully double as jungle gyms. The museum further accommodates parents and children with an on-site nursery and kids’ studio.

The indoor public zone, permanent installations, and outdoor exhibits are free of charge. Paid tickets are required for the temporary exhibitions.