Nestled within the serene grounds of Tennoji Park, the Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts stands as a testament to Japan’s rich artistic heritage. Established in 1936, the museum occupies the former estate of the Sumitomo family, who generously donated the land to the city of Osaka for the purpose of creating a public art institution.
The museum boasts a collection of approximately 13,500 works, encompassing a wide range of Japanese and Chinese art forms. Visitors can explore paintings, sculptures, calligraphy, metalwork, porcelain, lacquerware, and textiles, many of which are designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. Notably, the museum houses significant pieces from the former Sōraikan collection, donated by the Abe family in 1943, featuring masterpieces of Chinese painting and calligraphy.
Housed in a striking 1930s Art Deco building, the museum features an impressive entrance hall and hosts both permanent and special exhibitions. The permanent exhibition showcases selected works from the museum’s extensive holdings, while the basement galleries are available for exhibitions organized by various art associations.
Access
Located in Tennoji Park, the museum is easily accessible via public transportation:
- Tennoji Station
- JR West: Yamatoji Line, Osaka Loop Line, Hanwa Line
- Osaka Metro: Midosuji Line, Tanimachi Line – Tennoji Station
- Osaka Abenobashi Station
- Kintetsu Railway: Minami Osaka Line
Adjacent to the museum is the Keitakuen Garden, a traditional Japanese landscape garden also donated by the Sumitomo family, offering a tranquil retreat for visitors. Tennoji Park is also home to Osaka Tennoji Zoo.
Official Website
https://www.osaka-art-museum.jp/en/
