Museum of Modern Art, Kamakura Annex (神奈川県立近代美術館 鎌倉別館)
Discover the Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Modern Art, Kamakura Annex (神奈川県立近代美術館 鎌倉別館)
The Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Modern Art, Kamakura Annex opened in 1984 as a branch of the original Kamakura museum, which was founded in 1951 as Japan’s first public modern art museum inside the grounds of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine (鶴岡八幡宮). That original building, designed by Junzo Sakakura (坂倉準三), became a postwar icon of modernist architecture and was designated an Important Cultural Property in 2020.
While the former Kamakura building now serves as the Kamakura Bunkakan Tsurugaoka Museum (鎌倉文華館 鶴岡ミュージアム), the Kamakura Annex carries on its spirit as a contemporary center of culture and creativity.
When Architecture and Nature Intertwine
Architect Masato Otaka (大高正人) designed the annex with a bold concrete structure accented by Sanshu tiles and Inada stone. It blends harmoniously into the natural valley landscape. In 2019, a major renovation preserved the original design while adding a sleek white extension that enhances the museum’s modern charm. The galleries feature white walls and LED lighting for optimal viewing, and automatic glass doors help maintain a stable environment for artworks and storage.
The garden features sculptures by renowned artists such as Yoshitatsu Yanagihara (柳原義達) and Minami Tada (多田美波), creating a tranquil space where art and nature coexist. The large glass windows and garden-view café provide peaceful moments of reflection.
Interactive Art and Light Refreshments
The museum offers hands-on workshops for children and adults alike, including outdoor sculpture care sessions. It’s more than a place to view art—it’s a space for creativity and learning. The café, open even without a museum ticket, offers light meals and drinks with views of lush greenery.
How to Get There and Opening Hours
From JR Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅), it’s about a 15-minute walk or a 2-minute walk from the “Hachimangu-ura” (八幡宮裏) bus stop. Located in a quiet residential area, the museum offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Opening hours are from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM). Closed on Mondays (or the following day when Monday is a national holiday).
Best Time to Visit
Early morning and late afternoon are ideal for a quiet experience. The museum’s valley setting makes it especially pleasant in spring and autumn, with seasonal beauty all around. Guests staying at Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス) can take advantage of their flexible schedules to enjoy a peaceful, unhurried morning visit.
Nearby Cultural Gems
Within walking distance, you’ll find several cultural attractions such as the Kamakura Museum of National Treasures (鎌倉国宝館), the Kaburaki Kiyokata Memorial Art Museum (鏑木清方記念美術館), and the Kawakita Film Memorial Museum (川喜多映画記念館). These spots allow for a day immersed in art and history. At the Kamakura Museum of National Treasures, visitors can see rare Buddhist statues and historical documents.
Who Should Visit?
- Those interested in architecture or modern art
- Visitors seeking a calm and meditative setting
- Families looking to enjoy creative time with their children
- Travelers wanting a break from the everyday pace of life
Rather than just a sightseeing detour, this museum is perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in quietude. With the flexibility of a stay at Tosh’s Place, this kind of thoughtful cultural experience becomes naturally accessible.
Wrap-Up: A Quiet Blend of Culture, Art, and Nature
The Kamakura Annex of the Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Modern Art offers more than just an art exhibit—it’s a place where architecture, nature, and history merge. Located slightly away from the tourist crowds, it invites unhurried contemplation. For guests at Tosh’s Place, it’s the perfect destination to embrace the quieter side of Kamakura and discover the enriching “blank spaces” of your journey.