As one of Japan’s most private cultural figures, Japanese businessman, investor, and publisher Kazunari Shirai has become as well-revered as an avid collector, known for his substantial and eclectic collection of art, cars, and motorcycles. A co-founder of Art Week Tokyo and CEO of Sequedge Inc, Shirai has amassed an unparalleled art collection that includes some of the most notable names in contemporary art – his personal collection housing works by Yayoi Kusama, Lucio Fontana, Rosmarie Trockel, Wolfgang Tillmans, Atsuko Tanaka, Louise Bourgeois, William Kentridge, and Cornelia Parker.

Visiting creatives in the places that inspire them, this episode of Inner Worlds offers a glimpse into the enigmatic collector’s personal and professional realm. While Shirai seldom showcases his collection to the public, Art Basel is given a rare opportunity to step into his homes, his offices, and his meticulously curated garage – located in Tokyo and Osaka.

From the extraordinary Jim Lambie room and Atelier No. 7 – designed by Seiichi Shirai in 1959 – to his impressive array of vehicles – including an Aston Martin DBS Coupé Zagato Centennial, an Agusta F4 Zagato, and a 1994 Cagiva C594, often considered the world’s most beautiful racing bike – the spaces and the objects within them embody the deep passion for design that belie Shirai’s notoriously low profile.