[Shinkai Makoto Works] Your Name. National Art Center Complete Guide | Thorough Explanation from Sacred Site Pilgrimage to Exhibitions
Released in 2016, the animated film “Your Name.” directed by Shinkai Makoto achieved a massive hit with box office revenues exceeding 25 billion yen. The National Art Center, located in Roppongi, Minato Ward, Tokyo, has become a sacred site that plays an important role in the work, attracting many fans. This article introduces in detail specific spots that appeared in scenes from the film, the details of the “Shinkai Makoto Exhibition” held in 2017, and the attractions of the art museum.
What is the National Art Center? The Full Picture of Japan’s Largest-Class Art Museum
The National Art Center opened in January 2007 as Japan’s fifth national art museum. Located at 7-chome, Roppongi, Minato Ward, Tokyo, it boasts a total floor area of approximately 47,960 square meters, making it one of the largest art museums in Japan.
Architectural Charm and Characteristics
Designed by architect Kurokawa Kisho, this art museum is characterized by its undulating glass curtain wall. The all-glass exterior maximizes natural light intake and creates an open space inside the museum. This unique architectural design is beautifully depicted in the film “Your Name.” and adds a refined urban atmosphere to the story.
The interior consists of 4 floors above ground and 1 basement level, with an exhibition space of approximately 14,000 square meters. Rather than maintaining a permanent collection, it specializes in hosting diverse special exhibitions and events, continuously introducing excellent art works from Japan and abroad.
Access Information and Basic Data
Location: 2-22-2 Roppongi, Minato Ward, Tokyo
Nearest Stations:
- Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line “Nogizaka Station” Aoyama Reien direction ticket gate 6 exit direct connection (approximately 1 minute walk)
- Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line & Toei Oedo Line “Roppongi Station” 7 exit approximately 4 minutes walk
Opening Hours: 10:00～18:00 (until 20:00 on Fridays and Saturdays)
※Admission until 30 minutes before closing
Closed: Every Tuesday (if a holiday or substitute holiday, open with the following weekday closed), year-end and New Year holidays
Admission Fee: Special exhibition fees vary by exhibition. Entry to the museum itself is free.
National Art Center in the Film “Your Name.”
In the film “Your Name.”, the National Art Center appears as the setting for the restaurant where the protagonist Taki Tachibana works part-time. As a symbol of sophisticated and urban Tokyo, it colors important scenes of the story.
“Brasserie Paul” – The Model of Taki’s Part-Time Job Location
In the film, the Italian restaurant “Brasserie Paul” where Taki works part-time is modeled after “Brasserie Paul Bocuse Musee,” located on the 3rd floor of the National Art Center.
This restaurant is named after Paul Bocuse, a master of French cuisine, and features a modern and open space with the art museum’s undulating glass curtain wall as its backdrop. In the film, scenes such as Taki’s date with his senior Mikki Okujima and Mitsuha (in Taki’s body) working there are impressively depicted.
Brasserie Paul Bocuse Musee Basic Information:
- Business Hours: Lunch 11:00～16:00 (L.O.), Dinner 16:00～21:00 (L.O.)
- Closed: Tuesdays (follows the museum’s closure schedule)
- Reservations: Available (reservations recommended especially on weekends)
- Price Range: Lunch 2,000 yen～, Dinner 4,000 yen～
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Highlights
The main shooting spots that film fans visit are as follows:
1. View from the 3rd Floor Restaurant Area
The corridor in front of the restaurant overlooking the museum’s interior atrium space is exactly as it appears in the film. The distinctive inverted cone-shaped structure is a popular photo-taking spot.
2. 1st Floor Entrance Hall
The vast atrium space with natural light pouring down is a place where you can experience the film’s worldview. The ceiling height and sense of openness are spectacular.
3. Exterior
The exterior with its undulating glass curtain wall is beautifully depicted in the film. Especially during dusk or nighttime illumination, it creates a magical atmosphere.
“Shinkai Makoto Exhibition ‘The Voices of a Distant Star’ through ‘Your Name.'” Detailed Report
From November 11 to December 18, 2017, the “Shinkai Makoto Exhibition ‘The Voices of a Distant Star’ through ‘Your Name.'” was held at the National Art Center, commemorating the director’s 15th anniversary since debut.
Exhibition Overview and Highlights
This exhibition traced the 15-year journey of director Shinkai Makoto from his debut work “The Voices of a Distant Star” (2002) to his latest work “Your Name.” (2016) through approximately 1,000 valuable production materials.
Main Exhibition Contents:
- Storyboards and Drawing Materials
Storyboards and original drawings from each work, along with design materials, were displayed chronologically. Visitors could follow the director’s creative process in detail.
- Background Art Originals
Many original background art pieces, the greatest charm of Shinkai’s works, were displayed. The background paintings of impressive scenes from works like “5 Centimeters per Second,” “The Garden of Words,” and “Your Name.” drew visitors into the film’s world.
- Video Displays
Digest videos of each work and videos introducing the production process were screened. The exhibition included commentary by director Shinkai Makoto himself, filled with valuable information for fans.
- “Your Name.” Special Exhibition
The latest work “Your Name.” received particularly enriched display treatment, with character design materials, background art of Tokyo and Itomori Town, and storyboards of key scenes made public.
- Experience-Based Exhibitions
Experience-based exhibitions recreating impressive scenes from “Your Name.” were installed, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the film’s world.
Exhibition Response and Visitor Numbers
During the exhibition period, approximately 150,000 people visited, proving the high popularity of Shinkai’s works. Particularly coming shortly after “Your Name.” was released in theaters, visitors ranged from young people to elderly individuals. Long queues formed on weekends and holidays when crowds were expected.
Limited exhibition goods were extremely popular, with replicas of original art and catalogs in particular selling out early. The catalog is currently available in some cases through online retailers and has become a valuable item as a record of the exhibition.
How to Enjoy Sacred Site Pilgrimage | Photography Spots and Etiquette
Recommended Photography Spots
1. Corridor in Front of the 3rd Floor Restaurant Area
This is the spot where you can most faithfully recreate scenes from the film. Taking photos with the inverted cone-shaped structure (actually a passage leading down to the lower floor) as the background captures the film’s atmosphere.
2. 1st Floor Atrium Space
An upward angle view allows you to enjoy the museum’s architectural beauty. Times when natural light streams in (mid-morning through early afternoon) are especially recommended.
3. Exterior (Main Entrance Area)
You can photograph the full view of the undulating glass curtain wall. The contrast with blue skies on clear days is beautiful, and dusk during the golden hour is also recommended.
Photography Precautions and Etiquette
At the National Art Center, enjoy photography while following these rules:
- No Photography in Exhibitions: Without special permission, photographing displayed artwork is prohibited.
- No Tripods or Selfie Sticks: Only handheld photography is permitted to avoid inconveniencing other visitors.
- No Flash Photography: For artwork preservation and consideration for other visitors.
- No Commercial Use: Personal commemorative photography is permitted, but prior approval is required for commercial purposes.
- Consideration During Crowding: At popular spots, avoid long-term occupancy and share the space courteously.
Complete Guide to Cafes and Restaurants in the Museum
Besides “Brasserie Paul Bocuse Musee,” known as a sacred site, the National Art Center has multiple appealing dining facilities.
Brasserie Paul Bocuse Musee (3rd Floor)
Characteristics:
A brasserie named after Paul Bocuse, a master of French cuisine. Enjoy authentic French cuisine in the museum’s open space.
Recommended Menu:
- Lunch Course (Appetizer, Main, Dessert): 3,500 yen～
- Paul Bocuse Special Hamburger: 2,800 yen
- Seasonal Pasta: 2,200 yen～
Atmosphere:
The refined space exactly as depicted in the film. Perfect for dates. Lunch time on weekends gets crowded, making reservations recommended.
Salon de The Ronde (2nd Floor)
Characteristics:
A uniquely positioned cafe inside the second floor’s cone-shaped space. Located at the apex of the inverted cone, creating the strange sensation of floating in air.
Recommended Menu:
- Afternoon Tea Set: 3,800 yen
- Cake Set: 1,500 yen～
- Original Blend Coffee: 650 yen
Atmosphere:
An architecturally unique space popular as an SNS-worthy spot. Perfect for a break during art appreciation.
Cafe Coquille (1st Floor)
Characteristics:
A casual cafe that is easy to use. Offers a wide range of menus from light meals to sweets.
Recommended Menu:
- Sandwich Set: 1,200 yen～
- Pasta Lunch: 1,500 yen～
- Cake Set: 1,000 yen～
Atmosphere:
Casual and approachable, easy to use even alone. Takeout is also available, and you can enjoy meals in the museum’s courtyard.
National Art Center’s Charms | Exhibition and Event Information
Diverse Special Exhibitions Throughout the Year
The National Art Center has no permanent collection and holds diverse special exhibitions throughout the year. From masterpieces to contemporary art, exhibitions spanning wide genres are available.
Major Past Exhibitions:
- “Shinkai Makoto Exhibition” (2017)
- “Mucha Exhibition” (2017)
- “Louvre Museum Exhibition” (2018)
- “Christian Dior, Dreaming of Fashion” (2022)
- “Matisse Exhibition” (2023)
Ticket Purchase Methods and Crowd Avoidance Tips
Ticket Purchase Methods:
- Day-of Tickets: Purchase at the 1st floor ticket counter
- Advance Tickets: Official website, convenience stores, ticket agencies, etc.
- Online Tickets: Time-specified e-tickets (recommended)
Crowd Avoidance Tips:
- Weekday mornings are relatively uncrowded
- Right after opening (10:00～11:00) or before closing (17:00～) are ideal times
- For popular exhibitions, strongly recommend purchasing time-specified advance tickets
- Crowds tend to be lighter on rainy days
Free Admission Spaces
You don’t need to view special exhibitions to enjoy the museum’s architecture and atmosphere. The 1st floor entrance hall, cafes, and museum shop are accessible with free admission. If your only goal is “Your Name.” sacred site pilgrimage, you can freely explore the museum and visit photography spots at no cost.
Combine with Nearby Sightseeing Spots
Charms of the Roppongi Area
The Roppongi area where the National Art Center is located has many other attractive spots.
Roppongi Hills (approximately 7 minutes walk):
The observation deck “Tokyo City View” offers spectacular panoramic views of Tokyo. The Mori Art Museum is also housed here, allowing you to enjoy art appreciation.
Tokyo Midtown (approximately 5 minutes walk):
A complex facility combining shopping, dining, and art. The Suntory Museum of Art is also housed here, with a combined ticket for three facilities available as part of the “Roppongi Art Triangle.”
21_21 DESIGN SIGHT (approximately 3 minutes walk):
A design-specialized facility designed by architect Ando Tadao. Special exhibitions focused on design are held here.
Combining with Other Tokyo Sacred Sites from “Your Name.”
Sacred sites from “Your Name.” to visit along with the National Art Center:
Shinjuku Gyoen (approximately 15 minutes by train):
The important scene where Mitsuha and Taki reunite. Especially during cherry blossom season, you can strongly feel the film’s atmosphere.
Yotsuya Suga Shrine (approximately 20 minutes by train):
The famous staircase featured on the film’s poster. The most popular sacred site among fans.
Shinanomachi Station Area (approximately 20 minutes by train):
Appears in scenes where Taki, Tsukasa, and senior Okujima search for Mitsuha.
Yoyogi (approximately 25 minutes by train):
Depicted as the area where Taki’s home is located.
Deeply Understanding Shinkai Makoto’s Worldview
The Importance of “Place” in Shinkai Makoto’s Works
In director Shinkai Makoto’s works, “place” is not merely background but an important element that tells the story. By meticulously depicting actual locations, audiences can immerse themselves more deeply in the film’s world.
The National Art Center was chosen for “Your Name.” because of its architectural beauty and its symbolism of sophisticated, urban Tokyo. This museum’s contemporary and open space was the perfect setting to visually express the appeal of Tokyo where Taki lives.
Dedication to Background Art
A characteristic feature of Shinkai Makoto’s works is beautiful background art created based on careful research of actual places and photograph materials. The National Art Center scenes were also produced by repeatedly visiting the actual building, carefully observing how light enters and the space’s atmosphere in meticulous detail.
This commitment to realism creates the joy of sacred site pilgrimage. The pleasure of comparing scenes from the film with actual locations is an experience unique to Shinkai Makoto’s works.
Practical Information to Know Before Visiting
Time Estimate
Sacred Site Pilgrimage Only: 30 minutes～1 hour
If you’re simply visiting the photography spots and taking a light break at a cafe, one hour is sufficient.
Including Special Exhibition Viewing: 2～3 hours
If you’re viewing special exhibitions carefully and dining at a restaurant, plan for about half a day.
Barrier-Free Information
The National Art Center is equipped with comprehensive barrier-free facilities for all visitors to enjoy comfortably:
- Free wheelchair rentals (1st floor information desk)
- Multi-purpose restrooms (installed on each floor)
- Elevator access throughout
- Accessible parking spaces
- Service dogs and guide dogs permitted
Parking Information
The museum does not have dedicated parking, but several coin parking lots are nearby. However, since parking fees in the Roppongi area are expensive (approximately 400 yen per 30 minutes～), use of public transportation is strongly recommended.
Souvenirs and Museum Shop
The “Souvenir From Tokyo” museum shop on the 1st floor sells art-related goods, art books, original merchandise, and more. During special exhibitions, exhibition-exclusive goods are particularly well-stocked.
At the past Shinkai Makoto exhibition, replicas of original art, postcards, clear files, and catalogs were popular items. Some products are currently available for purchase through online shops and similar outlets.
Conclusion: Experience the World of “Your Name.” at the National Art Center
The National Art Center is a place of attraction not only as a sacred site for “Your Name.” but also as a representative art museum of Japan. You can re-experience scenes from the film, encounter world-class artworks, appreciate architectural beauty, and enjoy delicious meals. Such luxurious experiences are the greatest charms of this museum.
Please actually visit and experience the beautiful side of Tokyo that director Shinkai Makoto depicted. The emotion of seeing the scenery from the film unfold before your eyes is a special experience unique to sacred site pilgrimage.
The National Art Center in Roppongi, at the heart of the city yet maintaining an open and calm atmosphere. Whether for art appreciation, sacred site pilgrimage, dates, or sightseeing—it is a place worth visiting for various purposes. When you visit Tokyo, please be sure to stop by.
