Yamanashi Prefectural Museum

Overview

Nestled in a tranquil setting surrounded by the lush natural beauty of Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum offers a serene escape. Opened in 1977, the museum boasts a diverse collection encompassing Western art, Japanese art, and contemporary art, with a strong emphasis on works connected to Yamanashi Prefecture. Its collection of works by the French painter Jean-François Millet is particularly impressive, representing one of the largest Millet collections in Japan. You can admire numerous paintings depicting the lives of peasants, including his iconic "The Gleaners." This 1857 masterpiece captures the French countryside and the figures of peasants gleaning the leftover wheat after the harvest, a testament to Millet’s portrayal of the dignity of peasant labor and the harmony between humanity and nature. Beyond "The Gleaners," the museum features other key Millet works such as "The Shepherdess," "The Sower," and "The Angelus." Experience 19th-century French rural life through Millet's art, and explore the history of Japanese art and the diversity of contemporary art through the museum's other captivating collections. A cafe and museum shop provide opportunities for relaxation after your art exploration. The Yamanashi Prefectural Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in Millet, Western art, Japanese art, contemporary art, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat.