MOMAT Collection Spring 2026 | Japanese Modern Art in Tokyo
About this event
What this is
MOMAT Collection is a rotating permanent collection exhibition at the National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo (MOMAT), Japan's first national art museum, founded in 1952. Each term, curators select approximately 200 works from a holdings pool of over 14,000 pieces, tracing Japanese modern and contemporary art from the late 19th century through to the present day across 12 thematically organized rooms. The spring 2026 term places special emphasis on flower-related works, including Kawai Gyokudo's celebrated painting Parting Spring, and features a collaborative showcase with the National Crafts Museum spotlighting Suzuki Chokichi's Twelve Bronze Falcons. Because the selection rotates regularly, even repeat visitors encounter new works and fresh perspectives on Japan's artistic evolution. This is one of the most accessible and authoritative surveys of Japanese modern art available to the public.
Who should go
Art enthusiasts and anyone curious about the trajectory of Japanese modern and contemporary art will find this exhibition deeply rewarding, given its century-spanning scope and scholarly curation. The thematic room structure makes it equally suitable for casual visitors who want to dip in and out and for dedicated art lovers who wish to trace artistic movements in depth. The spring 2026 term's floral focus and the inclusion of exceptional craft objects give the show seasonal warmth and interdisciplinary breadth, appealing to those interested in both fine art and traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Visitors who enjoy unhurried museum experiences will appreciate the spacious layout — plan to spend at least 90 minutes to do the 200-work selection justice.
Good to know
Tickets can be purchased at the museum's main entrance ticket counter; foreign credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted. The MOMAT Collection is housed across the upper floors of the main building, with 12 rooms that flow in a logical sequence — pick up the free English floor map at the entrance to orient yourself. The museum is closed on Mondays (or the following Tuesday if Monday is a public holiday), so check the schedule before visiting. Photography policies vary by room and by specific works — look for signage at each gallery entrance, as some pieces permit photography without flash. The museum café on the ground floor offers views toward the Imperial Palace moat and is a pleasant spot for a break mid-visit.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.