MOA Museum of Art

Overview

The MOA Museum of Art, located in Atami, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a treasure trove of East Asian art masterpieces. Founded by Mokichi Okada, the museum boasts a collection of approximately 3,500 works, including 3 National Treasures and 67 Important Cultural Properties, amassed through years of dedicated collecting. The collection spans various fields of East Asian art, including paintings, calligraphy, crafts, and sculptures from Japan, China, Korea, and Southeast Asia. These works hold immense artistic, academic, and cultural value. A highlight of the museum is undoubtedly Ogata Korin's "Red and White Plum Blossoms." As a representative masterpiece of the Rinpa school, its vibrant colors and bold composition captivate viewers. The "Tea Jar with Wisteria Design in Overglaze Enamels" by Ninsei Nonomura, considered the pinnacle of Kyoto ware, is also a must-see, with its delicate brushwork and beautiful glaze. The MOA Museum of Art is not just a place to appreciate art but also a facility where you can experience Japanese traditional culture. Inside the museum, you can find a recreation of the "Golden Tea Room," said to have been used by Toyotomi Hideyoshi for tea ceremonies, allowing you to experience the splendor of that era. The lush Japanese garden is another highlight of the museum. With tea houses and stone sculptures scattered throughout, the garden offers beautiful scenery in every season. When visiting the MOA Museum of Art, be sure to enjoy the magnificent panoramic view from the museum. From the observation deck overlooking Sagami Bay, you can see as far as the Izu and Boso Peninsulas, a truly breathtaking sight. The MOA Museum of Art is highly recommended for East Asian art enthusiasts, those interested in Japanese traditional culture, and anyone who wants to enjoy a beautiful view.