Imagine ascending to the 16th floor of Japan’s once tallest building. Here, within Abeno Harukas, lies a cultural gem. It is the Abeno Harukas Art Museum.
Abeno Harukas Art Museum opened its doors in 2014. The museum’s location in Abeno Ward makes it easily accessible. It stands as an urban art museum ready to showcase national treasures. Important cultural properties find a home here.
The museum operates under a simple concept. It welcomes all people to experience all kinds of art. Its location at the Abeno and Tennoji terminal stations makes it ideal. The Abeno Harukas Art Museum wants everyone to enjoy art and culture.
Unlike some museums, Abeno Harukas Art Museum does not maintain a permanent collection. Instead, it hosts diverse exhibitions. These range from Kintetsu line cultural assets to contemporary art. Japanese, Oriental, and Western art all find a place here.
One unique aspect is its late opening hours. From Tuesday to Friday, the museum stays open until 8 PM. This allows commuters to visit after work. It is a major draw for this urban art space.
Throughout the year, Abeno Harukas Art Museum presents four to five special exhibitions. Past exhibitions include Hokusai: Beyond Fuji in 2017. Another was Amazing Superlative Techniques. It showcased art from Meiji Crafts to contemporary works in 2019. In 2022, visitors enjoyed Impressionism and the Genealogy of Light. The museum presented masterpieces from the Israel Museum.
Don’t miss the Museum Shop. It offers catalogs and art related books. You can find original goods from current special exhibitions. A unique gacha gacha collection also awaits. These toys relate to art and Osaka. Best of all, you can enter the Museum Shop without an exhibition ticket.
Need a break after viewing art? Several restaurants and cafes are on floors 12 to 14 of Abeno Harukas. Caf Ciao Presso on the 17th floor is popular with museum goers. They enjoy collaboration drinks linked to current exhibitions.
Before you leave Abeno Harukas Art Museum, consider visiting the Abeno Harukas 300 observatory. Ride the Harukas Shuttle elevator from the B1 or 2nd floor. The observatory is on the 58th, 59th, and 60th floors. The 60th floor offers a 360 degree view of Osaka. On a clear day, you can see Kyoto and Kansai International Airport.
Abeno Harukas Art Museum is more than just a museum. It is a destination. It combines art, culture, and stunning views. Its accessibility and varied exhibitions make it a must see. The museum embodies Osaka’s vibrant spirit. It brings art to everyone.