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21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · JP

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art

Getting around: Central Kanazawa, next to Kenroku-en; about a 15 minute walk from Kanazawa Station, or take the Kanazawa Loop Bus to the Hirosaka/Kenrokuen-shita stop.
Hours: Exhibition galleries typically 10am-6pm (later on Fridays/Saturdays), closed Mondays; free public spaces, paid tickets for ticketed exhibitions.

The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is a circular glass-walled building designed by architects SANAA, built to be open and permeable rather than a traditional enclosed museum box. Its best-known work, permanently installed, is Leandro Erlich's Swimming Pool, an installation that makes it look as if people are standing underwater when viewed from below.

Several free public zones and installations are accessible without a ticket, while rotating contemporary exhibitions in the ticketed galleries change throughout the year, making repeat visits worthwhile for locals and a flexible stop for travelers short on time.

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art FAQs

Do I need a ticket to see the Swimming Pool installation?

You can view it partially from the free public zone above and below, though full access to some vantage points may require a ticket depending on the current exhibition setup.

Is any part of the museum free?

Yes, several public spaces and some installations are free; only the special ticketed exhibition galleries require paid admission.

Is it near Kenroku-en?

Yes, it's directly adjacent, making the two an easy combined visit.

What days is it closed?

Generally Mondays; exhibition galleries close, though some public areas may remain accessible.

How long should I plan for a visit?

About 1-2 hours depending on the current exhibitions.

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