Suntory Museum of Art
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About
Located in the Tokyo Midtown complex, this museum was designed by Kengo Kuma with a theme of 'Japanese Modernism' and 'Art in Life.' The interior utilizes traditional materials like paulownia wood and vertical louvers to create a warm, Zen-like atmosphere. The museum focuses on pre-modern Japanese crafts, including exquisite ceramics, lacquerware, and glass. It also features a traditional tea ceremony room where visitors can occasionally participate in a 'Chado' experience. Its location within Roppongi makes it an easy addition to a day of museum-hopping.
Highlights
- Art in Life theme
- Traditional Japanese craft focus
- Kengo Kuma designed interior
- Tokyo Midtown cultural hub
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
The National Art Center Tokyo
Designed by Kisho Kurokawa, this is one of Japan's largest exhibition spaces and is famous for its breathtaking undulating glass facade. Unlike traditional museums, it does not have a permanent collection; instead, it hosts a rotating schedule of world-class special exhibitions. The interior is equally impressive, featuring two giant inverted concrete cones that house cafes and restaurants suspended in mid-air. Even if you don't enter an exhibition, the lobby is a free-to-enter architectural marvel popular with photographers and design enthusiasts.
Roppongi Hills (Mori Tower)
Mori Tower is the center of a 'city within a city' concept, integrating office space, luxury apartments, and high-end retail. At its crown is the Mori Art Museum, one of the world's highest contemporary art spaces. The 'Tokyo City View' observation deck is particularly famous for having an outdoor 'Sky Deck' (weather permitting), which offers a completely unobstructed view of Tokyo Tower—arguably the best angle for night photography in the city. The base of the tower features the famous giant spider sculpture 'Maman' by Louise Bourgeois, a local landmark for meetings.
Aoyama Flower Market Tea House
A stunning 'greenhouse' cafe located inside a luxury florist. The interior is a lush jungle of seasonal flowers and vines, with glass tables that have fresh blooms tucked underneath. The menu focuses on fresh herbal teas, flower-infused sodas, and colorful parfaits decorated with edible petals. It is an incredibly peaceful, fragrant oasis in the middle of the busy Aoyama fashion district. Every week, the 'theme flower' of the cafe changes, transforming the decor. It is a highly sensory experience that is particularly popular for afternoon tea with friends.
Sushi Otani (Akasaka)
Tucked away in the prestigious Hotel New Otani, this sushi bar is a sanctuary of refined Edomae sushi. The setting is intimate and quiet, away from the tourist crowds. The chefs here are masters of 'aging' certain fish to enhance their umami levels. Their lunch sets offer a more accessible way to experience world-class sushi in a five-star environment. It is particularly known for its impeccable service and the high quality of its 'Shari' (sushi rice), which is seasoned with a proprietary blend of vinegars. Ideal for a sophisticated business lunch or a quiet celebration.
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