John Young Museum of Art

John Young Museum of Art at UH Manoa features Asian-Pacific collections, rotating exhibitions, historic Krauss Hall galleries and a quiet campus setting.

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John Young Museum of Art, Oahu

This art museum affiliated with the University of Hawaii at Manoa occupies Krauss Hall, one the oldest buildings on the school's campus. Following recent renovations, the museum is now a 2,000+ square foot complex that includes galleries, workshops, a small research library, an office and an outdoor courtyard. Asian art lovers should not miss the John Young Museum of Art, which focuses primarily on Japanese, Chinese, Korean and Southeast Asian artworks, the bulk of which were donated by local painter John Chin Young.

The John Young Museum of Art's outstanding collection includes ceramic sculptures, wood carvings and bronze pieces dating back to ancient times. The ancient China collection features Han Dynasty tomb figures (c. 200 B.C.), Neolithic pottery jars dating back to 3000 B.C. and dozens of artifacts from the Ming Dynasty (1300s).

You'll also find pieces from the Three Kingdoms of Korea (5th to 6th centuries), a Mashiko stoneware plate by renowned Japanese artist Shimaoka Tatsuzo, Ban Chiang pottery dating from 2,000 to 1,000 B.C. and ceramic works by the Khmer people (11th to 13th centuries). The collection even has a few noteworthy African pieces from Mali, Ghana and Nigeria.

Krauss Hall is a work of art in itself and is listed on the Hawaii Register of Historic Sites. The space features a peaceful water garden designed by Betsy Sakata, where you can spot a Thai Buddha that belonged to Young. Don't miss the 1976 portrait of John Chin Young by contemporary artist and Stanford University professor Nathan Oliveira located near the museum entrance.

Key Features

UH Manoa setting: Museum in Krauss Hall at 2500 Dole Street
John Chin Young bequest: Collection donated by the Hawaii artist and collector
Asian-Pacific focus: Works from Asia, Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, Africa and Mesoamerica
Teaching museum: Supports UH students, researchers and community education
Renovated galleries: 2,000-plus-square-foot complex with galleries, workshops and research space
Historic campus building: Located in one of UH Manoa's older buildings
Current hours: UH listings show Tuesday through Friday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.
Visitor planning: Confirm exhibitions, hours, campus closures and parking details before going

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is John Young Museum of Art?

John Young Museum of Art is located in Krauss Hall at 2500 Dole Street on the University of Hawaii at Manoa campus in Honolulu.

What is John Young Museum of Art known for?

It is known for Asian-Pacific art collections, rotating exhibitions, student-centered programming and the collection bequest of artist John Chin Young.

Who was John Chin Young?

John Chin Young was a Hawaii artist, traveler and collector whose bequest helped establish the museum and its collection.

What are the current museum hours?

Current UH listings show fall and spring semester hours Tuesday through Friday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m., closed Saturdays, Mondays and holidays.

Is admission free?

Yes. Current UH gallery information lists free admission, with donations appreciated.