The Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, celebrated for its innovative architecture and contemporary art exhibits, is set to undergo significant renovations starting May 2027, with plans to remain closed until March 2028. The Kanazawa City government has announced this decision as part of their commitment to address extensive renovations needed due to structural damage from the recent Noto Peninsula earthquake, as well as the deterioration of key facilities after over 20 years of operation.
The announcement was made by Mayor Muraishi of Kanazawa City during recent discussions about the city’s budget. "We aim to build foundations for a safe and vibrant future with proactive investment budgets," he outlined, emphasizing the city’s strategic focus on both urban development and disaster mitigation. The city’s total budget for the upcoming fiscal year is projected at 204.9 billion yen, marking the highest allocation on record.
Initially inaugurated in 2004, the museum has become one of the main attractions for both domestic and international visitors, showcasing about 4,000 pieces of contemporary art. On average, the museum welcomed approximately 1.97 million visitors annually, highlighting its role as a cultural hub.
The museum experienced some temporary closures following the earthquake, particularly after parts of its ceiling were damaged. Currently, safety measures have allowed it to remain open, but the mayor noted the urgent need for updates on the air conditioning and electrical systems, which have suffered from wear over the years. "The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art is unique and many come to Kanazawa to see it. I think it's important to strategize for the inconveniences caused by the closure," the mayor reiterated, indicating the city's commitment to maintaining the museum's relevance and appeal.
To fund the renovations, approximately 9.62 million yen has been earmarked within the fiscal year 2025 budget. This investment is part of broader municipal planning aimed at revitalizing the urban core of Kanazawa, enhancing not only the museum but also surrounding commercial areas.
Public reactions to the announcement of the museum’s closure have revealed mixed sentiments. A visitor from Tokyo expressed disappointment, stating, "It’s disappointing to hear about the museum's closure since it’s such a representative spot for Kanazawa." Another visitor from Shizuoka Prefecture echoed this sentiment, adding, "Many visitors come to Kanazawa because of this museum. The closure might lead to fewer tourists."
Despite the sadness, there’s anticipation for the future of the museum. The renovations are seen as necessary for preserving the integrity of the exhibits and the overall experience for visitors. With many potential tourists drawn to Kanazawa primarily to experience the unique offerings of the museum, it’s hoped these improvements will not only restore the institution but also attract increasing numbers of visitors post-renovation.
With preparations underway, the leadership of Kanazawa City is working to mitigate the impacts during the closure period. The city's strategy includes promoting other cultural landmarks and events to keep the tourism flow steady. Future urban beautification projects are also being discussed, emphasizing the city's rich cultural heritage intertwined with modern art experiences.
Mayor Muraishi has reassured the community and stakeholders, stating, "Now is the time to proactively think about post-renovation strategies to keep attracting visitors to Kanazawa." The Kanazawa 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art promises to return with enhanced facilities and exhibits, ensuring its position as a distinct fixture of Japan’s contemporary art scene.
Though the timeline for renovations may temporarily deter visitors, the long-term benefits of the updates are expected to rejuvenate both the museum and the surrounding area, sustaining the city’s attractiveness as a cultural destination for years to come.