Hiroshima has several art museums that are well worth a visit, showcasing a diverse range of artworks from French Impressionism to modern contemporary pieces.
Hiroshima Museum of Art
Located in the heart of Hiroshima City, the Hiroshima Museum of Art was established in 1978 and houses an impressive collection of around 90 modern European paintings. These span a 150-year period, from the French Romantic period to the École de Paris movement. Additionally, the museum features approximately 90 works by modern Japanese painters, tracing the development of Western-style painting in Japan from its early days to the present.
The Hiroshima Museum of Art is open daily except Mondays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with an entry fee of 1,500 yen for adults for the full collection exhibitions.
Location: The museum is conveniently located 300 metres north of the Kamiya-cho intersection, near Hiroshima Castle.
Official Website:
https://www.hiroshima-museum.jp/en/index.html
Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art
Opened in 1989, the Hiroshima Museum of Contemporary Art is Japan’s first art museum dedicated exclusively to contemporary art. Situated in Hijiyama Park, the museum offers fantastic panoramic views of Hiroshima while housing an extensive collection of modern and contemporary artworks.
The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except on Mondays. The entry fee is 350 yen for adults, with special exhibition having varied fees.
Location: The museum is located at the east end of Peace Boulevard in Hijiyama Park, close to Hiroshima’s city centre. To reach the museum, take Hiroden Streetcar Line 5 from Hiroshima Station to the Hijiyama-shita stop, followed by a short uphill walk.
Official Website:
https://www.hiroshima-moca.jp/en/
Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum
Situated in the heart of Hiroshima City, the Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum boasts a collection of approximately 5,000 artworks. The museum emphasizes pieces by local artists, including the renowned nihonga-style painter Ikuo Hirayama. Additionally, the museum houses important cultural properties such as Imari porcelain and Itsukushima folding screens.
Adjacent to the museum is the Shukkeien Garden, a historic Japanese garden offering a serene environment that complements the art-viewing experience.
The Museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission fees varies by exhibition; please refer to the official website for current pricing.
Location: The museum is a 10-minute walk from Hiroshima Station. Alternatively, take the streetcar to Hiroden Shukkeien-mae Station, which is located at the museum’s entrance.
Official Website:
https://www.hpam.jp/
The Former Bank of Japan Building
The Former Bank of Japan Building is not only an architectural landmark but also a significant historical and cultural asset. Built in 1936, the building survived the 1945 atomic bombing despite being just 300 metres from the hypocenter. Its reinforced concrete structure was designed to withstand earthquakes, and the armoured shutters on the lower two floors were closed at the time of the blast, protecting much of the interior. While the third floor was burned out, the building was back in use just two days after the bombing.
Today, the building serves as a historical learning space that frequently hosts art exhibitions and remains a symbol of resilience and history in Hiroshima. Entry is free.
Location: The Former Bank of Japan Building is situated on Rijo-dori, directly opposite the Fukuromachi Hiroden stop.
Official Website:
https://www3.boj.or.jp/hiroshima/atomic-bombE/use.html
