Panasonic Shiodome Museum of Art

The Panasonic Shiodome Museum of Art is a small art gallery in Minato Ward, Tokyo.

The musem opened in 2003, and is a handy addition to your rainy-day activity list as well as a legitimate presence in the fine-arts world of Tokyo. It all started in 1997 though, when Panasonic had the chance to acquire about two dozen small landscape paintings by French artist Georges Rouault (1871–1958). From there the collection grew to become the museum it is today.

The gallery is situated on the 4th floor of the Panasonic Tokyo Shiodome Building. Measuring just 333 sq m in size, the exhibition space is considerably more intimate than other museums in Tokyo. However, what the gallery lacks in square footage it makes up for in thoughtfulness and creativity. Dynamic, colored moving walls allow for a variety of layouts, making each new exhibition feel distinctly different to the last; while the museum’s curators endeavor to celebrate art in all its mediums, from paintings to perfume bottles.

Permanent exhibition

The Panasonic Shiodome Museum of Art doesn’t have a permanent exhibition. Instead, they have three to four special exhibitions per year. However, there is a free showroom downstairs from the museum where you can get a taste of Japanese interior design trends.

Special exhibitions

The museum hold three to four special exhibitions per year, each lasting about 2 months. Exhibitions are always carefully arranged around one of three themes:

• The works of Georges Rouault.
• Craft and design.
• Architecture and living spaces.

Past exhibitions include one on Rouault and Japan, and one titled “Contemporary Japanese Crafts: Reinterpretation, Exquisite Craftsmanship, and Aesthetic Exploration.”

Museum facilities

Since the museum is small is doesn’t have much in the way of facilities. Besides the gallery space, there is just a museum shop selling art books and postcards, and some coin lockers for storage. Staff can also help out with storing larger luggage too.

How to buy tickets for the Panasonic Shiodome Museum of Art

Ticket prices vary depending on the exhibit, but expect to pay ¥1,000 to ¥1,500 for an adult ticket. University and high schoolers can enter for about half of the adult price, while middle school students and younger are free.

How to get to the Panasonic Shiodome Museum of Art

The museum is less than a one-minute walk from either Shimbashi Station or Shiodome Station. There is ample signage so you’ll be able to find your way easily.

Things to do nearby

When you’re done at the museum on the fourth floor, head down to the free Panasonic Living Showroom (1F–B2F) and Tokyo Renovation Museum (1F). Here you can see the differences (and similarities) between Japanese houses and your own. The model living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms show off the latest in Japanese lifestyle trends and technology — including automatic filling bathtubs and state-of-the-art toilet seats. Guidance is available in Japanese only.

Finally, upon exiting the first floor reception area, walk around to the west-facing side of the building to find the #LoveWall. This massive artwork was designed by internationally renowned muralist James Goldcrown. It’s the perfect backdrop for a group photo or Insta pic.

While not overly popular with tourists, the nearby neighborhoods also have something to offer. You can head over to the officer-worker’s hub of Shimbashi and enjoy a variety of pachinko, karaoke halls, izakaya (Japanese-style bars). Meanwhile, Shiodome is home to the Ghibli Clock and Hamarikyū Gardens.

Frequently asked questions

How long do you need for the Panasonic Shiodome Museum of Art?

One hour should be enough for this museum, since it’s on the smaller side.

Although it’s possible to speed through the halls in a matter of minutes, we recommend taking your time. The exhibits are designed to be savored piece by piece, with each article carefully selected for its relevance to the theme. So slow down, take a breath, and let the artworks tell their story.

Does the Panasonic Shiodome Museum of Art have English information?

Yes, the museum has English information and signage to go along with its exhibitions.