Located in the heart of Toyama City, the Toyama Glass Art Museum is a stunning fusion of modern architecture, light, and craftsmanship. Designed by world-renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, the museum has become one of Toyama’s most iconic cultural landmarks — a place where contemporary art, architecture, and tradition meet in perfect harmony.

Opened in 2015, the museum not only exhibits exceptional glass art from Japan and around the world, but also symbolizes Toyama’s transformation from an industrial city to a creative hub for modern art and design.

Overview

The Toyama Glass Art Museum (also known as TOYAMA Kirari) is housed within a multi-purpose cultural complex that also includes the Toyama City Library and the Toyama Civic Plaza.
This unique combination of facilities reflects the city’s commitment to making art and culture accessible to everyone.

From its striking wooden lattice interiors to the delicate play of natural light filtering through the building, the museum offers an atmosphere of calm and contemplation — making it one of the most beautiful museum experiences in Japan.

Architectural Design by Kengo Kuma

Kengo Kuma, one of Japan’s most celebrated contemporary architects, designed the museum to embody Toyama’s natural surroundings and history.

The six-story building features:

• A warm wooden structure made from local cedar, symbolizing Toyama’s connection to nature.

• An interplay of glass and light, representing transparency and craftsmanship.

• A floating staircase and open atrium, creating a sense of openness and fluidity between the floors.

Kuma’s design philosophy — “building with the light and materials of the place” — is fully realized here, where every beam and reflection enhances the art within.

Collections and Exhibitions

The museum’s collection and exhibitions are divided into several distinct galleries that highlight the beauty and diversity of glass art.

1. Permanent Collection (Glass Art Gallery 1–3)

Showcases over 400 pieces from Japan and abroad, ranging from modern sculptures to delicate glasswork.
Highlights include works by Dale Chihuly, a world-renowned American glass artist known for his vibrant, organic installations.

2. Contemporary Glass Art Gallery

Features cutting-edge works from international and Japanese artists, demonstrating innovative techniques and artistic interpretations of glass as a modern medium.

3. Studio Glass Movement Collection

Focuses on the Studio Glass Movement of the 1960s — a revolution in which artists began creating glass art in individual studios rather than industrial factories.
This section highlights Toyama’s connection to the global evolution of glass as an artistic form.

4. Special Exhibitions

Rotating exhibitions introduce new themes, from avant-garde glass installations to collaborations with designers, architects, and traditional artisans.

Dale Chihuly’s “Glass Forest” Installation

One of the museum’s most celebrated attractions is “Glass Forest”, a permanent installation by Dale Chihuly located on the 6th floor.

The room is dimly lit, allowing the glowing, organic glass forms to shimmer and reflect light in mesmerizing patterns.
The experience is both immersive and meditative — visitors often describe it as stepping into a dreamlike underwater world made of glass and light.

Photography is permitted in this area, making it a favorite spot for visitors from around the world.

Workshops and Hands-on Experiences

The museum offers workshops where visitors can experience glassmaking firsthand.
You can try glass fusing, sandblasting, or accessory-making, with guidance from professional instructors.
These activities are beginner-friendly and available year-round, although reservations are recommended.

Museum Shop and Café

The Museum Shop sells original glassware and design items created by both local and international artists.
Each piece is a unique blend of artistry and functionality, making perfect souvenirs or gifts.

Next to the shop, the Café “Kissa Kirari” offers locally sourced coffee and desserts in a serene, light-filled space.
It’s an ideal place to relax after exploring the exhibitions.

Library and Public Space

The lower floors of the building house the Toyama City Library, which is freely open to the public.
The library’s open layout, natural wood interiors, and soft lighting make it a relaxing space to read or simply enjoy the architecture.
The seamless integration of art and public space is part of what makes TOYAMA Kirari so unique.

Location and Access

Address:
5-1 Nishicho, Toyama City, Toyama Prefecture, 930-0062, Japan

Access:

• By Train: 10-minute tram ride from Toyama Station (on the Hokuriku Shinkansen Line) via the City Tram Loop Line to Nishicho Station, then a short walk.

• By Foot: About 20 minutes on foot from Toyama Station.

• By Car: Paid parking available nearby.

Opening Hours and Admission

• Open: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (until 8:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays)

• Closed: First and third Wednesdays of each month (and New Year holidays)

• Admission:

  • Permanent exhibition: ¥200

  • Special exhibition: Prices vary (usually ¥1,000–¥1,200)

  • Free admission to the building and library areas

Nearby Attractions

• Toyama Castle Park: Historical site with a reconstructed Edo-period castle and museum.

• Toyama City Hall Observation Tower: Offers panoramic views of the Tateyama Mountains.

• The Museum of Modern Art, Toyama: Another must-visit spot for contemporary art lovers.

• Glass Studio in Toyama: A facility where professional artists create and exhibit glasswork.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open year-round, but its ambiance changes with the seasons:

• Winter: Snow outside enhances the warm glow of the interior wood and glass.

• Spring/Summer: Sunlight streams through the glass façade, creating dynamic reflections throughout the building.

• Autumn: The golden tones of Toyama’s foliage harmonize beautifully with the museum’s cedar structure.

Why You Should Visit

The Toyama Glass Art Museum is more than just a museum — it is a celebration of light, craftsmanship, and architecture.

Here, you can:

• Experience one of Kengo Kuma’s most beautiful architectural works.

• Discover Japan’s leading center for modern glass art.

• Enjoy hands-on workshops and take home your own glass creation.

• Relax in a space where art, community, and nature coexist beautifully.

Whether you are an art lover, architecture enthusiast, or a casual traveler seeking a serene cultural experience, the Toyama Glass Art Museum offers a uniquely luminous glimpse into Japan’s contemporary artistry.

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https://toyama-glass-art-museum.jp/en/

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