Nasu Ashino Stone Museum

Overview

The Nasu Ashino Stone Museum, located in Ashino, Nasu-machi, Tochigi Prefecture, is a museum dedicated to stone. Old stone storehouses, once used as rice warehouses, have been renovated into a museum with a modern design by the renowned architect Kengo Kuma. Inside, you can see various exhibits using Ashino stone and Shirakawa stone. There's also a section showcasing the stone quarrying and processing methods, allowing you to learn about the culture and history of stone. The structure of the stone storehouses and the architectural styles using stone are also highlights. The Ashino district, where the museum is located, has long been known as a stone producer. Ashino stone, with its dense texture and beautiful color, has been used as a building material and stone for a long time. At the museum, you can learn about the history and culture of Ashino stone and its modern applications. The surrounding area is a historic post town with many hot springs and restaurants, making it an ideal tourist base. You can relax in stone bath tubs at the onsen (hot springs). Restaurants offer dishes using fresh local ingredients. The Nasu Ashino Stone Museum is a museum where you can fully enjoy the charm of stone. It's recommended not only for those interested in stone, but also for those interested in architecture and history.