The front of the museum (Photo: Ozaki baka / CC BY-SA 4.0)

Niigata Prefectural Museum of Modern Art

A museum dedicated to the evolution of modern art

The front of the museum (Photo: Ozaki baka / CC BY-SA 4.0)
Kim Bergström   - 2 min read

The Niigata Prefectural Museum of Modern Art is located in the city of Nagaoka, and was opened back in 1993. The facility is home to a wide range of Japanese and international modern art, and places a particular emphasis on showing how modern art has evolved. Sitting on the grounds of the Senshugahara Furusato no Mori Park, it's a place where you can truly appreciate the beauty of the seasons and feel a connection with nature and art at the same time.

Along with the impressive collection of permanent pieces, the museum plays host to limited time exhibitions on a regular basis. Some of the previous limited time exhibitions have included the works of Claude Monet, Disney's The Magic of Animation, and The Science Behind Pixar. It's worth checking the museum's website before your visit to see what special exhibitions may interest you. Most of the special exhibitions do come with an additional entrance fee.

You'll also find a cafe at the museum which offers a range of different meals, desserts, and beverages. Most of the meal options are rice or pasta based, including choices such as chicken masala curry, shrimp pilaf, and carbonara pasta.

Do note that the museum is closed every Monday if you're planning a special visit.

Getting there

By Public Transport:

From the JR Nagaoka Station (served by the Shinetsu Line, Joetsu Line, and the Joetsu Shinkansen), take the Ote Exit and head to the central loop line bus (platform 8). Get off at the Kenritsu Kindai Bijutsukan stop, which is approximately a 15 minute trip. Alternatively there are taxis available from the station if you'd prefer not to wait.

By Private Vehicle:

The museum is approximately a ten minute drive from the Hokuriku Expressway's Nagaoka Interchange. There is free on-site parking available for up to 165 vehicles.

Kim Bergström

Kim Bergström @kim.b

Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here.  🍵🌼🌸