The Asian Art Museum is in San Francisco’s Civic Center, across from City Hall, in a former public library. Its collection spans more than 6,000 years and includes art from across Asia, from ancient Chinese jade and Hindu temple carvings to Japanese armor and contemporary work. Galleries spread across three floors, with rotating exhibitions alongside the permanent collection. Follow the displays through different regions and periods, and look for the museum’s Japanese tearoom and the children’s makerspace near the lobby. Set aside time to explore rather than rushing through.
A collection across regions and centuries
The museum’s collection includes more than 18,000 works, with objects from across Asia and a history that reaches back more than 6,000 years. Around 2,000 pieces are on display at a time, so the galleries offer a selection rather than a view of the full collection.
The range extends from ancient ceramics, bronzes and jade to paintings, textiles, armor and contemporary installations. Works come from China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia, the Himalayas, Iran and other regions. Some displays follow a region or period; others connect themes such as religion, gender and power.
Objects to look for
Chinese jade and ceramics are among the collection’s strengths. Look for the Korean celadon ewer with a lotus-shaped lid, a pale green vessel dating to the 12th century, and galleries devoted to Chinese jade and hardstone.
Other displays include Hindu deities and temple carvings, Buddhist art, Japanese armor and a reconstructed Japanese tearoom. The collection also spans less familiar forms, including Indonesian shadow puppets and archaeological objects. Temporary exhibitions change over time, so check what is on view before planning around a particular artist or subject.
The former library building
The museum occupies the former San Francisco Main Library, a Beaux-Arts building completed in 1917. Its broad stairway and airy interior court give the galleries a clear architectural focus. The building was renovated for the museum, which moved to the Civic Center in 2003.
The museum opened in 1966, built around a substantial collection donated by Avery Brundage. His gift helped establish a public museum dedicated to Asian art. The collection has since grown to include both historical works and contemporary art.
Planning your visit
The galleries occupy three floors, and the collection is broad enough to reward a steady pace. If you have limited time, choose a region or a few objects that interest you, then leave room for any temporary exhibition. Allow a couple of hours at minimum; a longer visit gives you more time to follow the displays.
Families can look for the makerspace near the lobby. The museum also has a café, restaurant and gift shop. General admission is free on the first Sunday of each month. Check the museum’s website for current admission and exhibition information before setting out.
Häufige Fragen
How long should I spend at the Asian Art Museum?
Plan for at least two hours to explore the three floors. A longer visit gives you more time for the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions.
Is admission free on any days?
General admission is free on the first Sunday of each month. Check the museum’s website for current ticket details, including special exhibitions.
What can I see at the Asian Art Museum?
The collection spans more than 6,000 years and includes works from across Asia, such as Chinese jade, Hindu carvings, Buddhist art, Japanese armor and contemporary installations.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes. The museum has a children’s makerspace near the lobby.
When is the Asian Art Museum open late?
The museum stays open later on Thursdays. Check its current schedule before visiting, as hours vary by day and it is closed Tuesday and Wednesday.
