Sumida Hokusai Museum
すみだ北斎美術館 | |
Location within Tokyo | |
| Established | November 22, 2016 |
|---|---|
| Location | 2-7-2 Kamezawa, Sumida-ku, Tokyo, Japan |
| Coordinates | 35°41′42″N 139°47′53″E / 35.6951°N 139.7981°E |
| Type | Art museum |
| Key holdings | Works by Katsushika Hokusai |
| Architect | Kazuyo Sejima (SANAA) |
| Website | hokusai-museum |
The Sumida Hokusai Museum (Japanese: すみだ北斎美術館, Sumida Hokusai Bijutsukan) is an art museum in Sumida Ward, Tokyo, Japan, dedicated to the renowned ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai (1760–1849). Opened on November 22, 2016, the museum celebrates Hokusai’s contributions to Japanese art and his global influence, particularly through works like Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.[1] The museum's collection includes more than 1,800 items related to Hokusai, including paintings, sketches, woodblock prints, and personal artifacts.[2]
The building was designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Kazuyo Sejima of the firm SANAA. It is noted for its minimalist aluminum façade and angular design, intended to reflect the movement and dynamism found in Hokusai’s artwork.[3]
History
The Sumida Hokusai Museum was established to honor Katsushika Hokusai, who was born and spent most of his life in the Sumida area of Tokyo. The museum was developed by the local Sumida Ward government and opened on November 22, 2016, near Hokusai Dori, a street named in the artist’s memory.[1] The location of the museum has historical significance—it was once part of the daimyō residence of the Tsugaru clan during the Edo period. According to local tradition, Hokusai once painted a folding screen for the clan at this site.[4]
Architecture
The building, designed by Kazuyo Sejima, features five interlocking volumes clad in reflective aluminum panels. The design incorporates multiple entrances, allowing visitors to engage with the museum from various angles. The structure aims to foster an open and accessible environment that blends with the surrounding urban fabric.[3]
References
- ^ a b "Sumida Hokusai Museum". Tokyo Cheapo. Retrieved 2025-05-29.
- ^ "First Look at Kazuyo Sejima's Sumida Hokusai Museum". ArchDaily. 2016-11-22. Retrieved 2025-05-29.
- ^ a b "Kazuyo Sejima's Sumida Hokusai Museum in Tokyo Photographed by Laurian Ghinitoiu". ArchDaily. 2017-02-28. Retrieved 2025-05-29.
- ^ "Architecture". Sumida Hokusai Museum Official Website. Retrieved 2025-05-29.