A disc-like 'town square' of glass and light that discards the traditional museum path for a landscape of discovery.
Museum in Japan.
Visitor Guide
The outdoor exhibits and surrounding lawns are like a family park. The indoor public zone and several permanent installations are free of charge.
The upper deck of Leandro Erlich's 'The Swimming Pool' at midday. You can photograph people below the water's surface through a 10cm layer of real water.
Exhibitions open 10:00–18:00 (until 20:00 Fri/Sat). Public spaces open 09:00–22:00. Closed Mondays. Admission varies by exhibition (approx. 1,400 JPY).
The museum uses Space Syntax analysis to ensure that exhibition room entrances act as 'attractors,' naturally guiding route choices without predetermined itineraries.
2-3 hours
Design & Structure
SANAA reduced the architecture to the fewest tectonic elements: two parallel planes (ceiling and floor) and a circular glass liner. This reflects their intention to avoid an introverted mass.
Colorless silver glass, steel, and polished concrete. The structure is supported by 12.5cm tubular columns that appear almost weightless.
A steel structure for the basement supports the ground floor, while cutting walls of steel beams support the interior gallery 'boxes,' which range from 4 to 12 meters in height.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who designed 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa?+
21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa was designed by SANAA and completed in 2004. It is located in Hirosaka, Japan.
Where is 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa located?+
21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa is located in Hirosaka, Japan. Its coordinates are 36.5608°, 136.6580°.
When was 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa built?+
21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa was completed in 2004. It was designed by SANAA.
Can I visit 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa?+
21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa is a real building in Hirosaka that can be viewed from the outside. Check local information for interior access and visiting hours. Use the Parametric Atlas walking tour feature to plan a route that includes this building.