Hara Museum of Contemporary Art

This museum, dedicated to contemporary art, opened in Shinagawa in 1979. It was originally the private estate of business tycoon Kunizo Hara, who held various posts such as chairman of Tokyo Gas and Japan Airlines. The building is typical of the work of the architect Jin Watanabe, along with the former Nihon Gekijo and the main building of the Tokyo National Museum in Ueno. With influences derived from 1930s European modernist architecture, this Western-style design is valuable in itself as a record of the early Showa era. In the museum, as well as the five or six exhibitions, events such as lectures, live music and performances are held regularly, promoting new talent as well as both domestic and international modern art. Also recommended is the café d’Art, overlooking the courtyard of the museum – visit to catch a refreshing breeze for a moment. It’s worth checking out its quirky, changing menus which reflect the theme of the current exhibition.