Japan House is a free cultural center on Avenida Paulista in São Paulo, with exhibitions on Japanese art, architecture, design and culture. The building, designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, has a facade made with Kiso hinoki cypress and washi paper. Inside, explore exhibition spaces, browse books on Japanese culture in the library, or stop at the café for a dessert. There is also a shop with Japanese crafts and other goods, plus a restaurant on the upper floor.
A cultural center on Avenida Paulista
Japan House sits at Avenida Paulista, 52, and focuses on Japanese culture through exhibitions and spaces for reading, eating and browsing. Its program covers subjects including art, architecture, design and innovation, with exhibitions that change over time. That means the displays can differ from one visit to the next.
The building was designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. Its facade uses Kiso hinoki cypress and washi paper, materials worked by Japanese artisans. The exterior gives the center a distinct presence along the avenue, while the exhibition spaces bring the focus indoors.
Exhibitions, books and a café
The ground floor has exhibition areas, a café and a library space with books on Japanese culture. The collection includes subjects such as cuisine, literature and origami. You can spend time with the books between exhibitions, or make the café part of your visit; desserts are among its draws.
Upstairs, there is another exhibition area and a restaurant. The center’s two floors give you room to explore exhibitions alongside its food and reading spaces. A shop sells Japanese crafts and other goods, including items that can be difficult to find elsewhere.
Planning your visit
Admission is free. The center is open Tuesday through Sunday and closed on Mondays; its hours vary by day, so check the current schedule before setting out. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends.
Japan House is on Avenida Paulista, where it can be paired with other cultural stops along the avenue, including MASP and Itaú Cultural. Allow time for both floors if you want to see the exhibitions, browse the library and visit the café or shop.
FAQ
Is Japan House free to enter?
Yes. Admission is free.
What can you see at Japan House?
The center has exhibitions on Japanese culture, art, architecture and design, plus a library space with books on topics including cuisine, literature and origami.
How long should you spend at Japan House?
Allow around 1 to 2 hours to explore the exhibition spaces and browse the library, café or shop.
When is Japan House closed?
It is closed on Mondays.
