Tokyo Midtown sets itself apart from other commercial complexes with its emphasis on design. It's home to 21_21 Design Sight, a unique Tokyo institution that explores how we interact with design in daily life, the Suntory Museum of Art and a fantastic public green space.
Design Exhibits & Shops
21_21 Design Sight caused a lot of buzz when it opened, along with Tokyo Midtown, in 2007. Established by some of the biggest names in Japanese design, it was the first museum of its kind in the city – and one of only a few museums in the world devoted to design. Exhibitions explore how we interact with design in daily life, through the products we use and the spaces we inhabit. The elegant, concrete-and-glass structure was designed by Ando Tadao, one of Japan's preeminent contemporary architects.
Another highlight is the Suntory Museum of Art, where exhibitions showcase objects of beauty with purpose – like the ceramics of the tea ceremony. Designed by another famous architect, Kengo Kuma, the Suntory Museum of Art is inside the mall, on the 3rd floor of the Galleria. One floor above, there's a great selection of interior design goods stores such as Wise-Wise Tools.
Midtown Garden
There's no admission required to appreciate Midtown Garden, the mall's signature green space. It's a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in spring and evening illuminations in winter. There's also a great lawn and a year-round schedule of events.
