Guide
Azumino City Art Museum is a distinguished cultural institution located in the Toyoshina area of Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture. The museum proudly houses a significant collection of artworks deeply connected to the local region, most notably the striking sculptures of Hiroaki Takada and the evocative Western-style paintings of Kohei Miya. A defining feature of the museum is its beautifully landscaped garden, which hosts over 600 plants across approximately 300 species, including a spectacular variety of roses. This allows visitors to enjoy a seamless transition between contemplating fine art and observing the seasonal beauty of the natural environment.
The institution originally opened its doors on April 18, 1992, as the "Toyoshina Museum of Modern Art." Following administrative changes and mergers, it was known as the "Azumino City Toyoshina Museum of Modern Art" before officially adopting its current name, "Azumino City Art Museum," on April 1, 2025. Throughout its history, the museum has served as a vital hub for regional art and culture, dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of works by artists born or active in the local area.
Inside the museum, visitors can find permanent exhibitions featuring the sculptural works of Hiroaki Takada and the Western-style paintings of Kohei Miya, an artist closely associated with the famous literary figure Ogai Mori. The collection also includes diverse artistic styles, such as the Western-style paintings of local artist Takio Komuro, sketches by Kunio Kobayashi who was active in the Shinshu region, and works by Mitsumasa Okumura, who was active in France. The museum layout is intuitive, with the permanent exhibition room located on the 1st floor and the special exhibition room on the 2nd floor.
The museum's garden is a living canvas that changes with the seasons, featuring various roses and perennial flowers. The garden is particularly breathtaking during the rose blooming season, offering a perfect backdrop for your art viewing experience. The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). We highly recommend visiting during daylight hours to fully appreciate the vibrant colors of the garden and the intricate details of the artworks.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of art by viewing the permanent collection of sculptures and paintings within the gallery. Beyond the indoor exhibits, the outdoor garden offers a tranquil space for a scenic stroll. Because the flora changes throughout the year, many visitors choose to return during different seasons to witness the evolving growth of the plants and the changing atmosphere of the museum grounds.
The museum is situated in a culturally rich area of Azumino. Nearby landmarks include the Azumino Cultural Foundation facilities, the Azumino City Toyoshina Local History Museum, the Yukio Tabuchi Memorial Museum, and the Pilot Iinuma Memorial Museum. The Azumino area is a wonderful destination for those interested in exploring the intersection of local history, culture, and nature.
To ensure a peaceful and respectful environment for all guests, please observe standard museum etiquette. We ask that you follow all posted rules regarding the protection of the artworks. While there is no specific dress code, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes if you plan to enjoy the stroll through the outdoor gardens.