Located in Tokamachi, Niigata, the Echigo-Tsumari Satoyama Museum of Contemporary Art is most often simply referred to as KINARE – the main hub and largest exhibition space with the expansive Echigo-Tsumari Art Field.

Designed by architect Hiroshi Hara, the building is intended not just as a museum and hub for the overall arts festival, but also a meeting place for the community, participating artists, and visitors to the region.

The striking concrete façade is centred around a central atrium which is adapted for use as an exhibition and event space. Exhibitions are regularly updated with a café and festival giftshop inside. For anyone heading to Niigata to enjoy Echigo-Tsumari Art Field, KINARE is a usual first stop to get your bearings and useful information before diving in and exploring everything the festival has to offer.