Tanaka Isson Memorial Art Museum

What to know

The Tanaka Isson Memorial Museum of Art (田中一村記念美術館, Tanaka Isson Kinen Bijutsukan) is the highlight of Amami Park (奄美パーク), located in the northeast corner of Amami Oshima near the airport. Dedicated to the beloved late artist who spent his final years on the island, the museum displays his works across five rooms, featuring both permanent and temporary exhibitions of Isson's art and pieces by other artists connected to Amami Oshima.

Born in Tochigi Prefecture, Tanaka worked as a painter there and later in Chiba Prefecture for most of his life, but struggled to gain recognition in the Tokyo art scene. At age 50, he moved to Amami Oshima, where he lived modestly, painting local flora and birds. He only achieved fame after his death.

The museum devotes one hall to each period of the painter's life, showcasing works created in that region. An additional hall features a "Special Exhibition" of selected pieces, and another hall is dedicated to other artists associated with Amami Oshima.

Amami Park itself sits on the site of the former airport. Opened in 2001, the park offers several attractions on its spacious grounds, including the Amami no Sato folk museum (showcasing local history and culture) and a free observation deck with panoramic views.

The Tanaka Isson Art Museum and Amami Park are a few hundred meters from the airport in the northeast part of the island. The park is about 40 minutes by car from downtown Amami City. Alternatively, take a bus bound for Sani from central Amami City and get off at Amami Park (45-55 minutes, around 1000 yen, one bus every 1-2 hours).

How to get to and around Amami Oshima