Basic information

The Osaka City Museum of Fine Arts opened in May 1936 with the aim of providing citizens with opportunities to experience excellent art and culture, enriching their lives, supporting the activities of artists, and contributing to the promotion of culture in Osaka in general. The museum is located in Tennoji Park, the site of which was formerly the main residence of the Sumitomo family, which was donated to the city of Osaka along with its garden (Keitakuen) for the purpose of building the museum.
The museum consists of the original main building and the new underground exhibition room, which was built in 1992 beneath the main building. Consisting of three above-ground floors and two below, the main building's exhibition room hosts special exhibitions and collection exhibitions. The collection exhibitions feature over 8,500 pieces of Japanese and Chinese paintings, sculptures, and crafts acquired through purchases and donations, as well as works on loan from shrines and temples. Many of these works are designated national treasures or important cultural properties. The Tennoji Gallery (formerly the underground exhibition room) regularly hosts exhibitions sponsored by various art groups. The main building houses the art research laboratory, which conducts practical research in drawing, painting, and sculpture.