Guide
The Hirosawa Museum, located in Tsukuba City, Ibaraki Prefecture, is a museum designed by the world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma. The most striking feature of this building is its design, which utilizes approximately 6,000 tons of natural stone across 1,500 massive boulders. These stones are arranged to wrap around the building, creating a unique landscape where architecture and nature become one. The grounds feature a lush lawn garden, a bamboo garden, and an authentic Japanese garden, all designed so that visitors can enjoy the scenery from within the museum building itself. This space, where stone, greenery, and architecture harmonize, brings a profound sense of serenity to every visitor.
Opened on January 2, 2021, the Hirosawa Museum embodies the architectural philosophy of Kengo Kuma, the architect famous for designing the Japan National Stadium. In this work, he realized the concept of a 'museum where stone is the protagonist.' The gardens were named by Susumu Nanashi, a leading scholar of the Man'yoshu (ancient Japanese poetry) and the person credited with proposing the 'Reiwa' era name, adding a layer of historical depth. The building is intended to 'mature over time,' with a focus on how the stones and trees will gradually blend into the surrounding environment as the years pass.
The greatest appeal of the museum is the seamless fusion of architecture and garden. A primary highlight is the 'Tsukuhano Garden,' which consists of three distinct areas: the 'Kiyora Garden,' the 'Homura Garden,' and the 'Shijima Garden.' These gardens, crafted by garden designer Chiichi Saito and landscape architect Shunsaku Miyagi, offer breathtaking views of natural stones and seasonal plants. Inside the exhibition rooms, you can view works by Japan's leading painters and ceramic artists, where the modernity of the architecture meets the traditional beauty of the art. The outdoor stone walls and the meticulous patterns of the Karesansui (dry landscape) garden also provide a captivating visual experience.
The museum reveals a different face with every season. October and November are particularly recommended, as the crisp autumn air highlights the texture of the stones and the vibrant colors of the garden greenery. During the bright daylight hours, the glass-walled architecture reflects the surrounding nature, creating a beautiful interplay of light and shadow. For those seeking deep silence and reflection, visiting during quieter hours is ideal.
This is more than just an art gallery; it is an immersive spatial experience. Viewing the meticulously placed Japanese gardens from specific angles within the museum allows you to feel the profound harmony between man-made structures and the natural world. The museum also features architectural models, offering a deeper look into Kengo Kuma's design philosophy. Amidst the natural stones, visitors can experience the Japanese aesthetic of 'Zen' and the spiritual essence of silence.
The area around Tsukuba City, Ibaraki, is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy seasonal landscapes and local specialties like Soba (buckwheat noodles) and Ayu (sweetfish) in the nearby Kuji River or Oku-Kuji regions. Nearby spots like Hananuki Gorge and Ryujin Dam are also excellent destinations for scenic drives and nature walks.