Hakone Open-Air Museum

Overview

The Hakone Open-Air Museum is a place to experience history and culture, nestled in the abundant natural beauty of Hakone. Opened in 1952, it's renowned as Hakone's oldest museum. The museum houses a precious collection of approximately 3,500 pieces, primarily focusing on Japanese ceramics. These range from Jomon-era pottery to jars and pots from the Rokugo kilns of the Kamakura and Muromachi periods, extending through the Edo period. From the museum's main lobby, you can enjoy magnificent views of Sagami Bay, offering a unique experience of appreciating stunning natural scenery alongside beautiful artwork. The museum grounds also feature the “Shinsenkyo” garden, a picturesque landscape that changes beautifully with the seasons. This garden was created by the museum's founder, Mokichi Okada, between 1944 and 1953, during the turbulent years of war and its aftermath. In 2021, it received national designation as a Place of Scenic Beauty. Within the garden, you'll discover diverse features such as a moss garden, a rock garden, a bush clover path, and a bamboo grove, each offering unique seasonal beauty. Be sure to explore the garden during your visit to the museum!