Japan first became fascinated with Western culture after the Meiji Restoration (1868), when the country opened itself to foreign relations and trade. Keen to learn about, assimilate and reinvent cultural influences, many Japanese sought inspiration in Paris, which was then considered the art center of the world.
The Bridgestone Museum of Art presents itself as a window onto this early 20th-century Japanese perspective of the French capital. On display are 35 works by Japanese artists, including Asai Chu, Yuzo Saeki and Fujita Tsuguharu (Leonard Foujita), plus five other related works specially borrowed from other museums; till June 9.
Bridgestone Museum of Art; (03) 5405-8686; 1-10-1 Kyobashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo; Tokyo Station, JR Yamanote Line. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (Fri. till 8 p.m.). ¥800. Closed Mon. (except April 29, May 6) and April 21. www.bridgestone-museum.gr.jp
