Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery

The basics

If you’re a fan of modern art, add the Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery to your sightseeing itinerary to see a potentially eclectic range of works. Exhibits change about four times per year so even repeat visitors are likely to see something new each time. It shows both retrospectives of established artists and solo shows of emerging Japanese artists. Most travelers visit independently, as it’s a fairly small, niche-interest gallery, and its location in central Tokyo makes it easy to add to your schedule.

Things to know before you go

• If you don’t read Japanese, expect to simply enjoy looking at the exhibits, as information isn’t typically available in English.

• Admission to the gallery is ticketed, and costs vary depending on the exhibits.

• Tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter or online.

How to get there

The Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery is located in the Tokyo Opera City complex in Nishi-Shinjuku; despite its address, it’s quite far from downtown Shinjuku and Shinjuku station. To get there by public transport, take the Keio New Line from Shinjuku to Hatsudai, leave at the east exit then walk for about five minutes.

When to get there

The gallery is open every day of the week except Monday. It’s open from late morning until early evening, with last admission 30 minutes before closing time. Aim to come earlier in the day to avoid a rushed visit. The gallery can close for public holidays, so check its online calendar ahead of your visit.

Attend a concert at Tokyo Opera City

The Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery may not be the place to watch an opera, but the adjacent Concert Hall and Recital Hall are. A variety of orchestral, operatic, and contemporary shows are performed here. Check the website for an up-to-date program of what’s on during your visit to Tokyo.