Since its opening in 2006, the Aomori Museum of Art has become one of the new symbols of Aomori Prefecture. It is affectionately known as “Kenbi” by Aomori residents.

Inspired by the excavation site of the neighboring “Sannai-Maruyama Jomon Ruins,” the architecture of the Prefectural Art Museum features geometric cutouts in the ground and beautiful contrasts of white and earth tones, making it possible to spend a relaxing time just walking around the grounds. Visitors can see a collection of unique local artists such as Munakata Shiko (printmaker), Nara Yoshitomo (artist), and Narita Toru (Tohl Narita, special effects art director).

Among them, you cannot miss the 8.5-meter-high “Aomori ken” a meditating white dog (its buried feet are said to have been inspired by the neighboring Sannai-Maruyama ruins), which Yoshitomo Nara often uses as a motif. The dog’s expression looks very gentle, or sad, as if he is praying. The snow falling on their heads is another winter tradition. The four colossal stage background paintings of the ballet “Areco” by Marc Chagall are so powerful that you will never be bored, no matter how many times you see them.

The uniforms of the fashion brand “Mina Perhonen,” the beauty of the symbols and logos, the museum store and café, and other details make this a museum to be appreciated to the fullest.