Matsumoto City Museum of Art

The Matsumoto City Museum of Art (松本市美術館, Matsumoto-shi Bijutsukan), located in the heart of the vibrant city of Matsumoto, is a cultural treasure that art lovers shouldn’t miss. The museum's standout attraction is its impressive collection of works by Kusama Yayoi, the world-renowned artist born in Matsumoto. Known for her distinctive style, Kusama’s vibrant paintings and sculptures fill the museum, offering visitors a deep dive into her unique artistic vision. Among her most iconic pieces is the "Pumpkin" sculpture, located on Naoshima Island, which embodies her bold, polka-dotted aesthetic and has become synonymous with her artistic legacy.
Beyond Kusama's masterpieces, the museum also hosts rotating exhibitions from a variety of talented contemporary artists, ensuring there’s always something fresh to explore. The museum’s exterior is graced by a striking tulip sculpture, a symbol of its opening in 2002, which adds to the visual appeal of the space. Visitors can also stop by the museum shop, where a variety of art-inspired souvenirs are available, allowing them to take home a piece of the creativity that defines this exceptional museum.