About the Museum

Hello, travelers!
This is Rennyu, your Sarukuma writer.

Today I’m introducing a fantastic spot in Kamitori-cho, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City:
the “Kumamoto Contemporary Art Museum” (CAMK).

It’s located on the 3rd floor of the Bipress Kumanichi Kaikan building, right across Toricho-suji street from the Tsuruya department store — making it incredibly easy to find when exploring downtown Kumamoto.

I had been eagerly waiting for the Moomin Exhibition to open, so I went to see it with my 1-year-old daughter and a friend!

Visitors are asked to have their temperature checked, sanitize their hands, and fill in contact details on arrival.

Why This Museum is Perfect for Families

On this particular day, scatterbrained me had forgotten the stroller, the baby carrier — and even my daughter’s shoes! My arms and back were ready to give out (entirely my own fault).

But then…

…the kind staff approached us and offered, “Please use this!” I was so grateful I almost cried.

The free stroller rental service was an absolute lifesaver!

Crisis averted, we made it inside!

…or so I thought! The dim lighting startled my daughter, and she suddenly burst into tears.

Once again, a thoughtful staff member stepped in: “You’re welcome to step out and re-enter anytime — no problem at all!” So I gratefully popped out for a quick diaper change.

Inside the baby room ↓

A private nursing space is also available — such a relief for traveling parents!

And then I discovered this gem!

Machinaka Kosodate Hiroba (Downtown Parenting Plaza)!

While I was peeking inside, a staff member kindly invited us: “Would you like to come in and play?” (Such warm hospitality every step of the way!)

You simply write down your name and contact details, and you’re free to enjoy the space!

There’s a fun three-mirror play structure…

…and tons of picture books!

My daughter loves pulling books off shelves and went to town doing exactly that. I started feeling guilty, but a staff member smiled and said, “Pull out as many as you like — thank you for playing with them!”

Even though every book pulled out had to be sanitized for hygiene, they made us feel completely welcome.

I could finally let her play without worrying!

There’s also a wide selection of large-format picture books.

The space is sanitized once an hour, which is reassuring.

After my daughter had a great time letting off steam here, we were able to head back and enjoy the Moomin Exhibition at a relaxed pace.

I really wanted to check out the merchandise shop too…

…but it was packed, so I gave up for the day.

I’ll be sure to swing by the merchandise shop next time we visit the Downtown Parenting Plaza!

This museum is just incredibly thoughtful toward families with kids!

I love art museums but had been worrying I’d have to wait until my child was older. This contemporary art museum, however, is a place I can comfortably take her even now!

My daughter had a blast playing, and I left totally satisfied.

If you’re traveling in Kumamoto with little ones, definitely give this place a visit!

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Visitor Information

Frequently Asked Questions

* Information is accurate as of the time of reporting. Prices and operating hours are subject to change. Please confirm before visiting.