Experience a rare artistic collision this spring at Tokyo’s Artizon Museum, where Western Impressionism meets Japanese tradition. From now until Sunday, May 24, the museum is hosting two landmark exhibitions: ”Monet: Questioning Nature” and “Katarium.” To honor the centenary of Claude Monet’s passing, the former features 139 works — including a staggering 41 masterpieces on loan from Paris’s Musée d’Orsay — and the latter boasts storied National Treasure scrolls and Edo-period screens.

Located just steps from Tokyo Station, it’s a unique opportunity to wander through 19th-century French gardens and ancient Japanese legends all under one roof. Read on to learn more, or check out the in-depth article.

Tracing the artist’s journey from the coast of Le Havre to the sanctuary of Giverny, this landmark exhibition explores the specific landscapes that defined Monet’s vision. The showcase features several masterpieces making their Japanese debut, including “The Luncheon” (c. 1873), alongside a rare assembly of works from the Musée d’Orsay. Beyond his stunning depictions of light conditions and ordinary scenes, the exhibition highlights Monet’s deep affinity for Japanese ukiyo-e, revealing how traditional woodblock prints influenced his iconic Water Lilies. From 19th-century photography by his contemporaries to Art Nouveau glasswork, this is a comprehensive and layered look at the beloved impressionist master’s career.

On the fourth floor, the museum transitions from French gardens to a library of legends with “Katarium” — a title blending katari (storytelling) and “arium” (space). This exhibition showcases 56 works, including two National Treasures and seven Important Cultural Properties, ranging from mythological Meiji-era paintings to 12th-century scrolls. A major highlight is the return of the “Illustrated Scrolls of The Tale of the Heiji Rebellion, Tokiwa Scroll” after a two-year restoration, alongside the 17th-century Edo Tenka Matsuri (Sanno Festival) folding screens — a rediscovered masterpiece capturing the grandeur of the historic festival. It’s a rare, immersive look at the evolution of Japanese visual storytelling.

After exploring the galleries, retreat to the Museum Cafe & Restaurant, a sleek space featuring iconic designs by Ettore Sottsass and Shiro Kuramata. This season, the menu features Monet-inspired courses and colorful plates that mirror the artist's palette. Don't miss the limited-edition souvenir shop for exclusive apparel and stationery, or the standard gift shop for unique souvenirs like KIGI designer collaboration items inspired by Monet’s garden.