Towada Art Center

About this Attraction

Nestled in Aomori Prefecture, the Towada Art Centre is the centrepiece of the innovative Arts Towada project, a citywide initiative that transforms public space into a vibrant canvas. Located along Kanchogai-dori Avenue, Towada’s most iconic street, this cultural landmark redefines how art is experienced by seamlessly blending creative expression into the fabric of everyday life. Visitors stroll down the avenue and encounter a series of whimsical public artworks and street furniture—sculptures that double as benches, interactive installations, and visual surprises—inviting spontaneous engagement and contemplation. This open-air museum concept breaks down the traditional boundaries between gallery and community, turning the street into an extension of the museum. The Towada Art Centre further enhances this experience through its architecture. It features wide glass walls allowing art to “spill” into the city, creating a continuous dialogue between indoor exhibitions and the surrounding environment. Artworks are not confined to the main halls but are thoughtfully placed throughout the building, from the rooftop and courtyard to stairwells and open-air spaces. The centre’s permanent collection boasts pieces by internationally acclaimed artists such as Yayoi Kusama and Ron Mueck, offering visitors both visual grandeur and introspective moments. Across from the centre, the Art Square provides a peaceful setting for reflection, allowing guests to linger and appreciate the artworks in a relaxed, outdoor setting. Many of the centre’s pieces are open to photography, encouraging new forms of engagement and personal interpretation. Whether visiting to explore world-class contemporary art or simply passing through the avenue, Towada Art Centre offers a unique experience where art is not just observed—it is lived. The project enriches Towada’s cultural landscape and reimagines how art can elevate and interact with daily life in meaningful, accessible ways.