Art Tower Mito
水戸芸術館
A multipurpose arts center designed by Arata Isozaki. Its 100-meter spiral tower of titanium panels is a Mito landmark, and it houses a contemporary art gallery and concert hall.
Art Tower Mito opened in 1990 to mark the 100th anniversary of Mito becoming a city. Designed by architect Arata Isozaki, it includes a contemporary art gallery, a concert hall, and a theater. Its landmark is the Art Tower, a 100-meter structure of triangular titanium panels twisted into a spiral. An elevator takes visitors to an observation deck at about 86 meters, with views over the city (a small additional fee applies). The gallery hosts contemporary art exhibitions year-round, and the plaza in front often holds markets and events. It is closed on Mondays, and exhibition admission varies. It is about 20 minutes' walk from the north exit of JR Mito Station, or a short bus ride to the 'Izumicho 1-chome' stop.
Opening hours
09:30–18:00; closed Mondays
Nearby sights
- Mito Hachiman-gū
- Mito Tōshō-gū
- Tokiwa Shrine
- Kōdōkan (Mito)
- Lake Senba
- Kairaku-en
- Museum of Modern Art, Ibaraki
- Mito Castle Ruins