10 things to do in Sakai City Museum of Contemporary Art (堺市現代美術館) Sakai Japan



1. Explore the Permanent Collection: The Sakai City Museum of Contemporary Art (堺市現代美術館) is home to a wide collection of modern and contemporary art. From the early 20th century to the present, the museum showcases works from renowned Japanese and international artists. Visitors can explore the museum’s permanent collection, which includes sculptures, paintings, photographs, and installations.

2. Attend Special Exhibitions: The museum hosts regular special exhibitions, featuring works from both established and emerging artists. Visitors can explore the current exhibition, “The World of Ukiyo-e: A Journey Through the Edo Period,” which showcases traditional Japanese woodblock prints.

3. Take a Guided Tour: The museum offers guided tours of its permanent collection and special exhibitions. The tours are available in both English and Japanese and provide visitors with a comprehensive overview of the works on display.

4. Participate in a Workshop: The museum also hosts a range of workshops and classes, which are suitable for both adults and children. Visitors can learn the basics of Japanese calligraphy, take part in a drawing class, or create their own unique piece of art.

5. Visit the Museum Café: After exploring the museum’s galleries, visitors can take a break in the museum café. The café serves a selection of light meals and snacks, as well as a range of hot and cold drinks.

6. Shop at the Museum Store: The museum store stocks a range of souvenirs, books, and art supplies. Visitors can pick up a souvenir of their visit, or purchase a unique piece of artwork.

7. Join a Lecture: The museum regularly hosts lectures and talks by experts in the fields of art history and contemporary art. These events provide visitors with the opportunity to learn more about the works on display.

8. Participate in a Film Screening: The museum also hosts regular film screenings, featuring classic and contemporary films from Japan and around the world.

9. Visit the Library: The museum’s library is open to the public and contains a wide range of books on art and culture. Visitors can browse the shelves and take out books to read in the library’s comfortable reading area.

10. Enjoy the Scenic Views: The museum is located in a beautiful area of Sakai, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city from the museum’s rooftop garden. The garden is a great place to relax after a day of exploring the museum’s galleries.