The Hakone Open-Air Museum: A Unique Blend of Art and Nature in Japan

The Hakone Open-Air Museum is a must-visit attraction for art and nature lovers in Japan. Located in the stunning Hakone region, just an hour and a half from Tokyo, this open-air museum offers a harmonious fusion of modern and contemporary artworks with the breathtaking natural beauty of the surrounding mountains. With over 120 sculptures scattered across a vast landscaped park, indoor galleries showcasing world-renowned masterpieces, and even onsens (hot springs) to relax after the visit, the Hakone Open-Air Museum provides an unforgettable experience.

History of the Hakone Open-Air Museum

The Hakone Open-Air Museum opened in 1969, becoming Japan’s first outdoor museum. It was designed as a place where visitors could enjoy art and nature in a unique environment. The idea behind the museum was to break away from traditional enclosed galleries and bring art into the open air, allowing people to appreciate it in a spectacular natural setting.

Hakone, with its mountains, forests, and hot springs, was the perfect choice for such a project. The museum was carefully designed to highlight the relationship between artworks and their natural surroundings, enabling visitors to contemplate sculptures while admiring the surrounding mountains.

Since its opening, the museum has acquired a vast collection of modern and contemporary artworks by internationally renowned artists such as Henry Moore, Auguste Rodin, Antony Gormley, and many others. In addition to the outdoor sculptures, the museum also features indoor galleries exhibiting paintings, ceramics, and digital artworks.

The museum continues to evolve, regularly adding new pieces to its collection, ensuring that each visit offers something new.

Activities at the Hakone Open-Air Museum

The Hakone Open-Air Museum offers a variety of activities for art enthusiasts, families, and visitors looking for relaxation.

The Outdoor Sculpture Collection

The museum's main attraction is its vast collection of outdoor sculptures. More than 120 sculptures are spread across a 70,000-square-meter park, allowing visitors to stroll through the landscape while admiring world-class artworks. The sculptures are strategically placed to interact with the natural surroundings, creating a unique symbiosis between art and nature.

Among the most famous pieces, you’ll find works by British sculptor Henry Moore, whose monumental sculptures are prominently displayed. The collection also includes works by Joan Miró, Carl Milles, and Barbara Hepworth.

The Picasso Pavilion

In addition to the outdoor sculptures, the Hakone Open-Air Museum features a dedicated pavilion for Pablo Picasso, a true treasure for modern art lovers. This gallery showcases over 300 works by the artist, including paintings, ceramics, engravings, and sculptures. The Picasso Pavilion provides an intimate look at the career of this prolific artist and offers insight into some of his lesser-known works.

Interactive Art for Families

The museum is also a great place for family outings. One of the highlights for children is the Children’s Symphonic Sculpture, a colorful, interactive structure where kids can climb, explore, and play. The interior of the tower is adorned with stunning stained-glass panels, creating a breathtaking visual effect when sunlight filters through. This interactive experience allows children to have fun while discovering art in a playful way.

Hot Spring Foot Bath

After a long walk through the park, what better way to unwind than by soaking your feet in a natural hot spring? The museum offers an open-air foot bath, fed by Hakone’s hot springs, where visitors can relax while taking in the surrounding sculptures. This is a highly popular activity, especially after a full day of exploring the museum.

Indoor Galleries and Temporary Exhibitions

In addition to the outdoor sculptures and the Picasso Pavilion, the museum features several indoor galleries that host temporary exhibitions by contemporary artists from around the world. These galleries provide a space for modern and experimental art, complementing the outdoor displays.

Cafés and Souvenir Shop

The museum has a café where visitors can relax and enjoy a drink or a light meal while overlooking the scenic park. There is also a museum shop offering a selection of items inspired by the artworks, as well as books and unique souvenirs related to modern art and featured artists.

How to Get to the Hakone Open-Air Museum

The Hakone Open-Air Museum is located in the mountainous region of Hakone, which is easily accessible from Tokyo, Yokohama, and other major cities.

The best way to get there is by taking the Odakyu Romancecar train from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo. The journey to Hakone-Yumoto Station takes about 90 minutes. From there, you can take the Hakone Tozan Line and get off at Chokoku-no-Mori Station, which is just a five-minute walk from the museum.

From Yokohama, you can take the JR Tokaido Line or the Odakyu Line to Odawara Station, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Line to reach Chokoku-no-Mori Station.

For those who prefer to drive, parking is available near the museum. However, Hakone is a popular destination, especially on weekends and holidays, so parking can be limited.

Nearby Onsens

Hakone is also famous for its onsens (hot springs), and many visitors combine a trip to the Hakone Open-Air Museum with a relaxing day at an onsen.

Hakone Kowakien Yunessun

Located just a few minutes from the museum, Hakone Kowakien Yunessun offers both traditional baths and themed baths, including wine baths, green tea baths, and even sake baths. It’s an excellent choice for families or anyone looking for a fun and unique onsen experience.

Gora Kadan

For a luxurious experience, Gora Kadan offers thermal baths in an elegant, traditional setting. Once an imperial retreat, this high-end ryokan is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring art.

Hakone Yuryo

Located in Hakone-Yumoto, Hakone Yuryo offers open-air baths with stunning natural views. Visitors can also rent private baths, ideal for those seeking a more intimate and relaxing experience.

Conclusion

The Hakone Open-Air Museum is a one-of-a-kind destination that beautifully blends art, nature, and relaxation. Since its opening in 1969, it has become a symbol of the fusion between modern artistic creativity and Japan’s natural beauty. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful onsen retreat, this outdoor museum offers a rich and fulfilling experience.

Easily accessible from Tokyo and Yokohama, and offering a variety of activities for all ages, the Hakone Open-Air Museum is a must-visit attraction in Hakone. When you leave, you won’t just take away artistic memories, but also a new appreciation for the harmony between art and nature.

Official Website

Click Me

Location