Roppongi Art Guide
10 Contemporary Art Galleries Transforming Tokyo's Art Scene
Roppongi, a vibrant district in Tokyo, is well-known for its nightlife and business centers, but it also serves as a hub for contemporary art. From renowned museums like the Mori Art Museum and National Art Center Tokyo to avant-garde galleries, Roppongi is a dynamic art destination. This guide explores 10 unique galleries in the area, taking visitors on a journey through the city’s latest artistic movements. Starting at the Pyramide Building, which houses several high-profile galleries, we move through the art scene in Azabu-Juban and Nishi-Azabu.
Perrotin Tokyo
Exterior of Perrotin Tokyo Photo by Kei Okano Courtesy of Perrotin
Located on the ground floor of the Pyramide Building, Perrotin Tokyo is the Japanese branch of the Paris-based gallery. Opened in 2017, this gallery has become a key player in the global art scene, known for showcasing artists like Takashi Murakami. Adjacent to the gallery is Perrotin 106, a bookstore and event space that invites visitors to engage with modern art in new ways.
Yutaka Kikutake Gallery
On the second floor of the same building, the Yutaka Kikutake Gallery, opened in 2015, is committed to introducing emerging talents from Japan and abroad. Their exhibitions delve into the significance of art in a globally connected society. A notable feature is their collaboration with Taka Ishii Gallery to promote community-driven art projects.
WAKO WORKS OF ART
Having expanded its exhibition space in 2011, WAKO WORKS OF ART continues to feature international artists such as Gerhard Richter and Wolfgang Tillmans. This gallery’s influence extends beyond the exhibits, with an impressive range of self-published catalogues and artist interviews.
Moving through the Pyramide Building, visitors will find a variety of other esteemed galleries, including SCAI PIRAMIDE and KOTARO NUKAGA. From traditional to contemporary, these galleries represent a spectrum of artistic voices.
Exhibition view of Bubu de la Madeleine: The Territory of Mermaids – Flags and Organs, photographed by Kanichi Kanegae.
Complex 665: Roppongi's Newest Art Hub
Next, venture to Complex 665, a nearby building that hosts additional galleries. On the second floor, the Tomioka Art Gallery curates exhibitions of both Japanese and international artists, focusing on ceramics and experimental works. The space was designed by acclaimed architect Atsuko Murayama and offers a welcoming, relaxing atmosphere.
On the same floor, ShugoArts continues to evolve as a creative space, where the gallery’s motto, “Artistic Adventure,” inspires exhibitions that reflect the latest in Japanese and global art. Featuring a diverse roster of artists, the gallery collaborates closely with curators to create immersive, interactive installations.
Taka Ishii Gallery: Where Photography Meets Fine Art
Located on the top floor of Complex 665, Taka Ishii Gallery plays a crucial role in both Japan’s photography and painting scenes, while also showcasing renowned international artists. The gallery features a dynamic mix of established global talents and emerging artists expected to shape the future of contemporary art. With exhibitions from iconic photographers like Daido Moriyama, it remains an essential destination for anyone interested in the global intersection of photography and fine art
Finally, don’t miss ANB Tokyo, a multi-level gallery complex that opened in 2020. Designed to push the boundaries of modern art, ANB Tokyo offers an innovative space for artists and curators, creating a cross-disciplinary environment that integrates visual art with fashion, film, and digital media.
Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or new to the world of avant-garde exhibitions, Roppongi offers a wide range of galleries that showcase the best of Japan's modern and traditional art scenes.