The National Art Center, Tokyo

"The exterior of the Osaka Continental hotel was filmed at The National Art Center in Tokyo."

"For some travelers, what comes to mind first when they think of Japan is tales of samurai and shoguns, centuries-old temples, and the tea ceremony and kabuki. For others, however, what makes the country most exciting is its contemporary art, fashion, and architecture. The National Art Center should be at the top of the list foranyone with an affinity for the latter. Designed by one of Japan 's most interesting contemporary architects, Kisho Kurokawa, it is among the country's largest exhibition spaces. There's no permanent collection, but temporary exhibitions cover a variety of mediums and topics—photography, manga and anime, architecture, and fashion, among others. The exhibitions aren't always limited to works by Japanese creators, with international museums lending pieces as well. If you are looking for gifts to take back home, the Souvenir from Tokyo shop in the basement has a delightful selection of Japanese products, both whimsical and elegant."

"For some travelers, what comes to mind first when they think of Japan is tales of samurai and shoguns, centuries-old temples, and the tea ceremony and kabuki. For others, however, what makes the country most exciting is its contemporary art, fashion, and architecture. The National Art Center should be at the top of the list foranyone with an affinity for the latter. Designed by one of Japan 's most interesting contemporary architects, Kisho Kurokawa, it is among the country's largest exhibition spaces. There's no permanent collection, but temporary exhibitions cover a variety of mediums and topics—photography, manga and anime, architecture, and fashion, among others. The exhibitions aren't always limited to works by Japanese creators, with international museums lending pieces as well. If you are looking for gifts to take back home, the Souvenir from Tokyo shop in the basement has a delightful selection of Japanese products, both whimsical and elegant."

"Housed in an undulating concrete-and-glass structure designed by pioneering Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa, the National Art Center, Tokyo is one of the country’s largest contemporary art showcases. At any given time, the museum features four rotating exhibitions spread across 150,700 square feet and 12 galleries. This ever-changing space is the polar opposite of a stuffy, moldering museum and an essential stop for lovers of Japanese art and architecture. Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Mori Art Museum or the Suntory Museum of Art for a culture-packed day. Free, centrally located, and always featuring something new, this museum is as much for Tokyo residents as it is for foreigners." - Diana Hubbell