The Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum is a stunning building with a rich history. It was the residence of Prince Asaka Yasuhiko and his family from 1933 to 1947. The prince, who was greatly enamoured of the Art Deco movement, commissioned the construction of his own private residence in this style. The building’s main architect is credited as Gondo Yukichi of the Works Bureau of the Imperial Household Ministry, although many of the interiors were designed according to plans submitted by Henri Rapin.

After World War II, the building served as the official residence of the Prime Minister from 1947 to 1950 and as a State Guest House from 1950 to 1974. The building was first opened to the public as a museum in 1983, and it is now one of Japan’s many museums supported by the prefectural government.

The museum’s name, Teien, means Japanese garden, and it is so named because the building is surrounded by a garden and sculptures. The garden is a beautiful representation of Japanese horticulture, with carefully manicured trees and plants arranged in a traditional style.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum is home to a wide range of art, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics. The collection includes works by both Japanese and Western artists, with a particular emphasis on the Art Deco movement that the building itself exemplifies.

In addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions showcase a diverse range of artists and styles, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience a wide range of art in one location.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art, architecture, or history. Its rich history and stunning architecture make it a unique and fascinating place to explore, and its collection of art is sure to impress even the most discerning of visitors.