Ginza Art and Museum Guide: Discover the Best Art Spots in Ginza

Ginza has been known as a hub for Japanese art and culture since the Meiji era and remains a special place where many artists and art enthusiasts gather. As someone born and raised in Tokyo, I strongly feel that Ginza's charm lies not only in shopping and gourmet experiences but also in its unique art experiences where tradition and innovation intertwine.

Indeed, the weekend crowds and somewhat high prices might be a concern for tourists. However, the historic galleries nestled between department stores and sophisticated museums exhibiting the latest contemporary art are tranquil spaces that make you forget such hustle and bustle.

From the Shiseido Gallery, which opened in 1919, to the Art Aquarium Museum, which just opened in 2020, I urge you to experience the passion for art that has been passed down through the ages.

One of Ginza's attractions is that many museums and galleries are free to enter and offer excellent English support, allowing you to easily enjoy an art walk.

And to conclude your art appreciation, I recommend our MagicalTrip food tours. Our tour where you can enjoy high-end sushi and tempura in Ginza and our special tour where you can enjoy wagyu beef with an English-speaking guide are excellent opportunities to experience Japan's "culinary art". These tours allow you to visit popular restaurants that are usually difficult to book.

In this article, I'll introduce you to Ginza's art scene, from hidden gems loved by locals to the latest spots popular among foreign tourists. I've also included information to help you plan a perfect day in Ginza, including special dining experiences to color your evening after art appreciation, so please read to the end!

Magical Trip's tour earned Tripadvisor's 'Best of the Best' award

Table of Contents
・About Ginza's Art Scene
・Major Museums in Ginza
・Art Galleries in Ginza
・Recommended Course for Visiting Museums and Galleries in Ginza
・Tours to Enjoy "Culinary Art" Through Authentic Japanese Food in Ginza
・Frequently Asked Questions About Museums and Galleries in Ginza

About Ginza's Art Scene

Ginza's art scene has continued to shine as the center of Japanese art and culture from the early 1900s to the present day. I'd like to share its charm based on my experience of observing this area for over 20 years.

As you walk through the streets of Ginza, you'll notice historic galleries and modern gallery spaces scattered between luxury department stores and brand shops. It's particularly noteworthy that many of these facilities are fully equipped with English support, creating an environment where overseas visitors can enjoy art appreciation with peace of mind.

I'm especially moved by the fact that you can encounter diverse art pieces spanning generations, from traditional Japanese paintings to cutting-edge digital art. Exhibitions by renowned domestic and international artists are held continuously throughout the year, offering new discoveries with each visit.

Major Museums in Ginza

Ginza is home to various museums, from those with a long history to facilities offering the latest art experiences. Each has its own unique character and continues to fascinate visitors. As a local, I'd like to introduce some particularly recommended facilities.

1. Shiseido Gallery

The Shiseido Gallery, opened in 1919, is known as Japan's oldest gallery. I first visited it when I was a student, and I still vividly remember being overwhelmed by the spacious exhibition space with its 5-meter high ceiling.

The characteristic of this gallery is the perfect harmony between the aesthetic sensibility unique to a cosmetics company and the innovativeness of contemporary art. In the regularly held group exhibition called "Tsubaki-kai," you can see works by up-and-coming artists.

<Information>
Access: B1F, Shiseido Ginza Building, 8-8-3 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Varies depending on the exhibition
Phone: 0335723901
Hours: Generally 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, but varies depending on the exhibition
Admission: Free
Website: https://gallery.shiseido.com/jp/

2. Art Aquarium Museum GINZA

I find this facility's innovative approach, which overturns the conventional concept of museums, to be the most impressive. The Art Aquarium Museum creates a fantastic space combining goldfish, light, and music.

The display after dusk is particularly spectacular. I feel that the underwater art created by the interplay of light effects and goldfish movements embodies a modern version of Japanese aesthetics. Its convenient location within Ginza Mitsukoshi is also attractive, allowing you to drop by between shopping.

I recommend it for those with small children as well, with a family-friendly pricing policy where up to two elementary school children and younger can enter free with one adult. As the exhibition content changes with the seasons, it's a popular spot with many repeat visitors.

<Information>
Access: 9F Entrance, Mitsukoshi New Building, 4-6-16 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-8212
Closed: None
Phone: 0335286721
Hours: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
Admission: 2,500 yen if purchased online, 2,700 yen if purchased at the counter, up to two elementary school children and younger free with one adult
Website: https://artaquarium.jp/

3. Ginza Graphic Gallery

As a specialized gallery for graphic design, this gallery has a special presence. I've gained a lot of inspiration from this place since my student days. From works by world-renowned designers to exhibitions by up-and-coming creators, there are always stimulating special exhibitions.

The attraction is that you can experience various forms of graphic design, from posters to book designs. The regularly held workshops and talk events are also not to be missed. I recommend this place not only for those interested in design but also for those who want to experience contemporary visual culture.

<Information>
Access: 1F, DNP Ginza Building, 7-7-2 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Sundays, Mondays
Phone: 0335715206
Hours: 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.dnpfcp.jp/gallery/ggg/

4. Pola Museum Annex

I particularly pay attention to this museum as a place where you can experience the forefront of Japan's contemporary art scene. The exhibitions dealing with diverse media from photography to painting and three-dimensional works always offer fresh surprises whenever I visit.

What's particularly noteworthy is that all exhibitions have extensive English explanations of the works. This allows overseas visitors to deeply understand the background of the works and the artists' intentions. The free admission is another reason why you can easily experience art here.

<Information>
Access: 3F, POLA Ginza Building, 1-7-7 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: None
Phone: 05055418600
Hours: 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.po-holdings.co.jp/m-annex/

5. Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum

The greatest charm of this museum is its presence, which can be said to be a work of art in itself. It's a museum utilizing a building from the Meiji era, where you can enjoy the architectural beauty of that time from the exterior to the interior.

The exhibitions centered on modern Japanese art have become an important place for understanding Japan's art scene that has evolved with the changing times. The museum also has a café and museum shop where you can spend time leisurely.

It's located in the Tokyo Station area but is within walking distance from Ginza, making it a convenient location.

<Information>
Access: 2 Chome-6-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-0005
Closed: Mondays
Phone: 0357778600
Hours: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Admission: Varies depending on the exhibition, but generally paid
Website: http://mimt.jp/

Art Galleries in Ginza

In Ginza, there are not only large-scale museums but also numerous small galleries with unique characteristics. What I find particularly attractive as a local is the unique perspective and curation each gallery offers. Sometimes there are unexpected encounters with works, which is the real thrill of art walks in Ginza.

1. Akio Nagasawa Gallery Ginza

This gallery is highly regarded among core art fans as a space that deals primarily with photography in contemporary art. One of the reasons I became interested in photographic art was my encounter with an exhibition at this gallery.

Of course, they exhibit works by famous artists, but they also actively introduce works by up-and-coming photographers. Despite its location in the heart of Ginza, the charm of this gallery is that you can face the works in a calm atmosphere.

<Information>
Access: 6F, Ginsho Building, 4-9-5 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Sundays, Mondays
Phone: 0362643670
Hours: 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.akionagasawa.com/jp/exhibition/group-show-3/

2. Vanilla Gallery

Located on the second basement floor, Vanilla Gallery provides a quiet space away from the hustle and bustle of Ginza. Despite its small scale, it has a reputation for high-quality curation, and I visit it every time there's a new exhibition.

The exhibitions here are always full of surprises, and you can enjoy a wide range of displays from experimental works by emerging artists to themed group exhibitions. Works are also available for purchase, making it a popular spot among art collectors.

<Information>
Access: B2F, Tosei Building, 8-10-7 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: None
Phone: 0355681233
Hours: 12:00 PM–7:00 PM
Hours (Weekends): 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.vanilla-gallery.com/

3. Gallery Q

The reason I particularly like Gallery Q is its emphasis on dialogue with artists. Artist talks are often held during exhibition periods, providing opportunities to deepen understanding of the works. While located in the center of Ginza, it has succeeded in creating a space where art feels accessible.

The exhibitions centered on contemporary art always provide fresh perspectives. I often drop by on my way home from work, and each time I make new discoveries. Works are also available for purchase, and they are known for their friendly approach to those who want to start an art collection.

<Information>
Access: 3F, Kusumoto No.17 Building, 1-14-12 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Sundays
Phone: 0335352524
Hours: 11:00 AM–7:00 PM
Hours (Saturdays): 11:00 AM–5:00 PM
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.galleryq.info/

4. Gallery 58

Gallery 58 is a special place for me, primarily dealing with works by local artists. Many works are in an affordable price range, making it one of the ideal galleries for those who want to start an art collection. New exhibitions are held regularly, and each time there are fresh encounters with new works.

Despite its convenient location in the heart of Ginza, it's charming that you can appreciate works in a calm atmosphere. The knowledgeable staff is another feature of this gallery, creating an environment where you can easily ask questions about the works.

<Information>
Access: 4F, Ryuei Building, 4-4-13 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Sundays
Phone: 0335352524
Hours: 12:00 PM–7:00 PM
Hours (Saturdays): 12:00 PM–5:00 PM
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.gallery-58.com/

Recommended Course for Visiting Museums and Galleries in Ginza

To efficiently tour Ginza's art spots, a bit of planning is necessary. Based on my experience of walking through Ginza for over 20 years, I'd like to introduce the best courses for different times of the day.

Each course is designed not only for art appreciation but also to fully enjoy the charms of Ginza. I've made special efforts to ensure that foreign tourists can enjoy both the depth of Japan's art scene and the gourmet experiences unique to Ginza, the city of fine dining.

Morning: Course to Visit Traditional Art Spots in Ginza

Starting from JR Yurakucho Station, I recommend heading first to the Wako Building. This historic building, constructed in 1932, is a work of art in itself. The clock tower, in particular, is loved by many as a symbol of Ginza and is a popular photo spot. The elegant architectural beauty of the entire building in the Neo-Renaissance style stands out even more in the soft morning light.

From there, it's about a 5-minute walk to the Shiseido Gallery. In this gallery with over 100 years of history, you can enjoy contemporary art exhibitions that fuse tradition and innovation. What I particularly like is that you can leisurely face the works in the unique serene space of this place. As the exhibition content is regularly updated, there are new discoveries even if you visit each season.

After art appreciation, it's time for lunch at a long-established restaurant where you can fully enjoy the atmosphere of Ginza. The two restaurants I've selected are both famous establishments that have been loved by locals for many years.

Recommended Restaurant 1 for Lunch in Ginza: Grill Swiss Ginza

Known as the birthplace of katsu curry, Grill Swiss Ginza is a restaurant I've been visiting for over 20 years. This restaurant, which continues to preserve the taste of traditional Western-style cuisine, offers a hearty katsu curry using carefully selected ingredients at a reasonable price in the 1,000 yen range.

The interior retains the atmosphere of old Tokyo while maintaining a clean and calm space. Its convenient location, about a 2-minute walk from Ginza Station, is also a point that pleases tourists.

<Store Information>
Address: 2F, Okura Annex, 3-4-4 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: None
Phone: 0335633206
Hours: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
Website: https://ginza-swiss.com/

Recommended Restaurant 2 for Lunch in Ginza: Kissa YOU

Kissa YOU, with over 40 years of history, is a special place of memories for me. The signature fluffy omurice is a taste you'll never forget once you've tried it. The exquisite cooking of the eggs and the deep flavor of the demi-glace sauce are truly masterful.

Located near the Kabukiza Theatre, this restaurant is said to be loved by kabuki actors as well. In the retro-style interior, it feels as if memories of Ginza from the Showa era are still alive. The menu is also rich in lighter options such as sandwiches and toast, making it ideal for a light break during your art walk.

<Store Information>
Address: 1F & 2F, Takano Building, 4-13-17 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Wednesdays
Phone: 0362260482
Hours: 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/tokyo/A1301/A130101/13002318/

Afternoon: Course Centered on Contemporary Art Galleries

For the afternoon course, I'll introduce a route where you can fully enjoy contemporary art. Let's start with the Pola Museum Annex. Here, stimulating special exhibitions are always held, allowing you to experience the forefront of Japan's contemporary art scene.

Next, head to GINZA SIX. The public art installed on each floor allows you to casually enjoy the charm of contemporary art between shopping. The giant pumpkin object by Yayoi Kusama is particularly a must-see.

After that, I recommend a route where you can view a photo exhibition at Akio Nagasawa Gallery and then encounter works by young artists at Gallery Q. By taking an elegant café break in between, you can appreciate art more deeply.

Below, I'll introduce some recommended cafés.

Recommended Café 1 in Ginza: Shiseido Parlour

Shiseido Parlour has been loved as a social hub in Ginza since its establishment in 1902. I've been visiting for over 10 years, and its charm never fades. The classical interior and sophisticated service by waiters dressed in white jackets create an atmosphere as if you're in a modern art museum.

The seasonal limited menus, parfaits, and cakes are not only visually beautiful but also exquisite in taste. It's perfect for enjoying tea time while immersing yourself in the afterglow of art appreciation.

Website: https://parlour.shiseido.co.jp/en/shoplist/salondecafeginza/

Recommended Café 2 in Ginza: UNIQLO COFFEE

UNIQLO COFFEE, located on the top floor of the UNIQLO Ginza store that opened in 2012, symbolizes Ginza's new café culture. In this flagship store boasting a vast floor area of about 5,000 square meters, what I particularly like is this space that feels like an oasis in the city.

The pairing of sweets from the long-established "Ginza West" and original coffee is a brilliant fusion of tradition and innovation. Also, the adjacent "UNIQLO FLOWER" decorates the space with seasonal flowers.

Website: https://map.uniqlo.com/jp/ja/detail/10101397

Evening: Course to Enjoy Ginza's Night Scenery, Art, and Food

Ginza shows a different face from twilight. My recommendation, based on years of observing Ginza's nights, is a course that starts from the rooftop garden of GINZA SIX. From here, you can overlook the cityscape of Ginza and feel the artistry of the city in a different way from daytime art appreciation.

Next, head to the Art Aquarium Museum on the 8th floor of Ginza Mitsukoshi. At night, the illuminated goldfish create a fantastical space, offering a completely different atmosphere from daytime. I'm particularly moved by the spatial production that could be called contemporary art, created by the interplay of light and shadow, water and living creatures.

After that, enjoy photography spots of the illuminated Ginza streetscape. The nighttime Ginza shows a beauty that is itself a work of light art.

Finally, conclude with a dinner that could be called Ginza's "culinary art". I'll introduce some recommended famous restaurants below, but as these popular restaurants are difficult to book, I recommend using MagicalTrip tours if you want to visit them for sure.

Recommended Restaurant 1 for Dinner in Ginza: Sushimasa

Sushimasa, which I've been visiting for over 15 years, is a famous restaurant where you can enjoy authentic Edomae sushi in a sophisticated and relaxing atmosphere. From the counter seats, you can closely observe the chef's techniques, which is as beautiful as traditional Japanese art.

The menu, centered on omakase courses, uses only the best seasonal ingredients of the day. It's also characterized by a rich selection of sake, which you can enjoy pairing with the dishes. For anniversaries or special days, I recommend dining in a private room.

Budget: Lunch 5000 yen, Dinner 20,000 yen

<Store Information>
Address: Koseido Ginza Building B1, 5-14-5 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: None
Phone: 0335415882
Hours: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM, 5:00 PM–10:30 PM
Website: https://www.ginza-sushimasa.com/english/

Recommended Restaurant 2 for Dinner in Ginza: Tempura Kondo

"Tempura Kondo", which has earned two Michelin stars, is one of the places I always visit on special days. The omakase course using seasonal ingredients is characterized by an extremely thin batter that brings out the original flavor of the ingredients, and the exquisite cooking technique that showcases the chef's skill.

One of the great attractions of this restaurant is that you can closely observe the chef's techniques from the counter seats in Ginza's calm atmosphere. Reservations are by phone only, and as it's a popular restaurant, I recommend making a reservation one month in advance. The chef's delicate techniques and deep understanding of ingredients elevate tempura to the realm of art.

Budget: Lunch ¥10,000～¥14,999, Dinner ¥20,000～¥29,999.

<Store Information>
Address: Sakaguchi Bld., 9F, 5-5-13 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0061
Closed: Sundays
Phone: 0355680923
Hours: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
Website: https://tempura-kondo.com/en/

Tours to Enjoy "Culinary Art" Through Authentic Japanese Food in Ginza

At MagicalTrip, we offer two special tours where you can fully enjoy Ginza's fine cuisine. I'm confident that experiencing Japan's "culinary art" after visiting art spots will lead to a deeper understanding of Japanese culture.

Finest Quality Sushi & Tempura Dining Experience in Ginza

This 2.5-hour gourmet tour visits high-end sushi and tempura restaurants in Ginza that have received high ratings from Michelin and Tabelog. The price is $203.41 (about 30,000 yen) per person, including four types of drinks.

Counter seats are guaranteed, allowing you to closely observe the techniques of skilled chefs unfolding before your eyes. You can enjoy special nigiri and tempura using seasonal ingredients, with over 80 types of seafood used throughout the year.

Even if you're unsure about Japanese cuisine etiquette and manners, an English-speaking guide will kindly support you, so you can relax and enjoy your meal. It's particularly popular among foreign tourists and those with little experience dining at high-end Japanese restaurants.

It's a small-group tour, and solo travelers are also very welcome. It's also popular among couples and friends as an anniversary or special experience.

Between meals, you'll stroll through the streets of Ginza, and we'll also guide you to shrines, high-end stores, and hidden bars. The meeting time is 4:30 PM, so you can join after enjoying museums and galleries.

For details: Finest Quality Sushi & Tempura Dining Experience in Ginza

Wagyu Beef & Sake Paring Foodie Tour in Ginza

This tour, where you can enjoy wagyu beef and sake, offers a luxurious food experience at a reasonable price of $177.98 (about 26,000 yen) for 3.5 hours. Based on my years of experience as a tour guide, I especially recommend this course for those who want to deeply understand Japanese food culture.

The first stop is the antenna shop of Nara Prefecture. You can enjoy all-you-can-drink of about 20 types of local sake from Nara, known as the "birthplace of Japanese sake", for 30 minutes. Don't worry if you're not fond of sake; other drinks are also available.

The second stop is a teppanyaki restaurant in Ginza. You can spend a luxurious time ordering as much top-grade A5 rank wagyu beef as you like. Side dishes, seasonal soup, garlic rice, and miso soup are also provided, and you can choose wine or beer as well.

This tour has already been experienced by over 100 customers and has received high ratings. I especially recommend it for those who want to fully enjoy wagyu beef and sake, or those who want to enjoy Ginza nights with a local guide.

The meeting time is 5:00 PM, so you can join after enjoying museums and galleries. Like the previous tour, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, and date changes are possible.

For details: Wagyu Beef & Sake Paring Foodie Tour in Ginza

Frequently Asked Questions About Museums and Galleries in Ginza

Based on my experience of observing Ginza's art scene for many years, I've compiled frequently asked questions from foreign tourists and their answers.

Do Ginza's museums charge admission?

Surprisingly, many museums and galleries in Ginza can be enjoyed free of charge. This reflects Ginza's cultural philosophy of wanting more people to become familiar with art. For example, you can view high-quality exhibitions for free at places like the Shiseido Gallery, Pola Museum Annex, and Ginza Graphic Gallery.

On the other hand, special experience-based facilities like the Art Aquarium are charged. However, they provide unique exhibition content and comprehensive facility services that are worth the admission fee. Also, museums like the Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum, which utilize historical buildings, set appropriate admission fees considering the costs of maintaining and managing the building.

Until what time are Ginza's museums open?

Ginza's museums are generally open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM as standard. However, this can vary depending on the facility.

In my experience, many galleries have different operating hours on weekdays and Saturdays, often closing earlier on Saturdays. Also, they may be temporarily closed during exhibition changeover periods, and operating hours may change during seasons or special exhibition periods. Generally, the last admission is 30 minutes before closing time.

For those who want to enjoy art appreciation at night, I recommend the Art Aquarium. The nighttime illuminated exhibition offers a fantastical atmosphere different from daytime.

Do I need to make reservations for Ginza's museums?

Basically, most museums and galleries in Ginza don't require reservations and you can casually drop by. This is out of consideration for wanting you to easily enjoy art between shopping and dining.

However, for popular special exhibitions, reservations may be required to avoid congestion. Also, reservations are generally necessary for group visits or guided tours. Furthermore, if you plan to take photographs, it's recommended to check in advance as photography policies differ by facility.

Ginza's art scene has a unique charm where tradition and innovation harmonize beautifully. With many facilities that can be enjoyed for free and excellent English support, overseas visitors can easily experience Japan's art culture.

And after art appreciation, enjoying Ginza's unique food culture will lead to a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. In particular, using MagicalTrip's "Finest Quality Sushi & Tempura Dining Experience in Ginza" or "Wagyu Beef & Sake Paring Foodie Tour in Ginza" allows you to definitely realize dining experiences at famous restaurants that are usually difficult to book.

Ginza is not just a high-end shopping district. It's a special place where you can experience Japanese aesthetics and culture from both art and food perspectives. I hope you can create your own special Ginza memories using the courses introduced in this article as a reference.