Toyama Prefectural Museum of Art & Design — Picasso by the Pond

The Toyama Prefectural Museum of Art & Design (富山県美術館, TAD) is a contemporary art museum opened in 2017, housed in a striking modernist building overlooking Fugan Canal and the Tateyama mountain range. The museum's permanent collection focuses on 20th-century art and design, including a significant collection of Pablo Picasso's poster art — over 300 works spanning his career — alongside Japanese modern art, furniture design, and rotating contemporary exhibitions.

The building, designed by Naito Architect & Associates, features a rooftop park (Oo-Labo, オーラボ) with playgrounds, observation decks, and panoramic views of the Tateyama range. The rooftop is free to access (museum entry not required) and has become a popular family destination. The museum's interior includes a café, design shop, and airy galleries with natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows.

TAD serves as Toyama's premier cultural venue, hosting international art exhibitions, design showcases, and educational programs. The combination of quality art collection, architectural design, and mountain views makes it a rewarding cultural stop.