Hara Museum ARC

The Hara Museum of Contemporary Art in Shinagawa, Tokyo, was a pioneering contemporary art museum in Japan. It was a western-style residence built in 1938 and a popular venue among art lovers in Tokyo due to its chic, elegant ambiance. However, it was closed in 2021, for its consolidation with the Hara Museum ARC in Shibukawa, Gunma Prefecture.

I was excited about visiting the Hara Museum ARC for the first time. The museum building designed by architect Arata Isozaki, was built on lush green and expansive grounds adjacent to the Ikaho Green ranch. Unlike the Hara Museum Shinagawa, it is a spacious and modern building.

The three contemporary art galleries are symmetrically arranged with Gallery A flanked by Galleries B and C. The pyramid-shaped roofs are topped by skylights that bathe the interior in natural light.

The Kaikan Pavilion is a space that adopts the traditional shoin (drawing room) style of Japanese architecture. Black mortar, granite, and washi paper enhance its authenticity.

Moreover, permanent outdoor installations by Andy Warhol, Olafur Eliasson, and Jean-Michel Othoniel are visible at various locations.

The museum primarily uses solar power generation in consideration of the environment.

After viewing all the galleries, Ms.Tsubouchi, the Senior Curator, graciously led us to a stockroom that housed a number of precious artworks by various artists. Our interest was further piqued as we listened to the stories about the artworks.

We had a sandwich and coffee with other participants at the café. I recommend visiting the Hara Museum ARC for a day trip to Shibukara if one wishes to be away from the city.