Comico Art Museum

Comico Art Museum Yufuin features the art of Takashi Murakami and the photographs of Hiroshi Sugimoto, both artists who have helped to redefine a Japanese perspective on modern art. Murakami's work focuses on linking “otaku culture,” character iconography, and Japanese art history. Sugimoto displays his “Seascapes” series, photographs that are notable for their lack of human subjects.

NHN Comico, a multinational manga digital distribution company, constructed this minimalist building with a renowned Japanese architect, Kengo Kuma. It features natural materials and traditional construction techniques. The galleries are minimal, allowing visitors to focus on the space. Natural wood and plenty of outside light warm spacious rooms. Charred cedar clads the outside, an ancient technique that extends the life of exterior wood. The building integrates inside with outside, making full use of the wild and dramatic mountainous landscape surrounding the museum. Views of Mount Yufu feature prominently.
A docent accompanies visitors for an hour-long tour upon arrival before they are left to enjoy the collection on their own.