Guide
The Karuizawa Picture Book Museum is a specialized museum dedicated to the art of picture books, located within the "Muse no Mori" museum park in Karuizawa, Nagano. Opened in July 1990, the museum focuses on the theme of "The History of Western Picture Books," showcasing precious materials such as original illustrations and first editions by modern and contemporary authors. The facility spans a vast 15,000㎡ area, featuring three exhibition halls, a picture book library, a shop, and a cafe.
The museum was established to introduce the culture of Western picture books—which originated in the West—to the Karuizer area, a place that naturally embraces Western culture. Through its collections, it presents the evolution of picture books from their inception to the present day. The architecture, designed by Ruiseikyo, creates a seamless blend of nature and culture.
The facility includes several exhibition areas tailored to different interests. The First Exhibition Hall houses the Shinichi Yoshida Collection, while the Second Exhibition Hall hosts various special exhibitions that change periodically. Visitors can also experience the "Picturesque Garden," where you can immerse yourself in the world of picture books within a natural setting. Additionally, the site features a library for picture book lovers and a shop selling wooden toys and books.
The museum operates amidst the changing scenery of the four seasons, with special exhibitions held to match the time of year. The gardens and forest offer different atmospheres depending on the season. Standard operating hours are 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM; however, please note that from December to January, hours change to 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The museum is closed from mid-January through February. It is highly recommended to check the latest schedule before your visit.
Beyond viewing the exhibits, visitors can enjoy relaxing at the onsite cafe "Lue," browsing the gift shop, or reading in the library. The shop offers a variety of items, including wooden toys and themed books. The serene environment of the forest provides the perfect setting for quiet contemplation of the artwork and literature.
The museum is part of the "Muse no Mori" area, which hosts several other attractions. Nearby spots include the "Erzt Toy Museum Karuizawa," the scenic "Kazekoshi Park," and "Karuizawa Taliesin." You can easily plan a route that combines these cultural and natural landmarks.
Since the museum is located in a forested area, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please be aware that there are restrictions on photography in certain exhibition areas to protect the delicate artworks. As opening hours and seasonal schedules can change, please check the official information prior to your arrival.