Panduan
DIC Kawamura Memorial Museum of Art is a private museum located amidst the lush natural beauty of Sakura City, Chiba Prefecture. It boasts a diverse collection centered on 20th-century art, offering a space where 'art,' 'nature,' and 'architecture' harmonize at a high level. While the museum was once known for experiencing the seamless integration of exhibition rooms, architecture, and vast gardens, the current operational structure focuses on opening specific areas of the garden to the public. It is a place where you can enjoy a serene moment of escapism, feeling as though you have left daily life behind through the fusion of art and the natural environment.
The museum opened on May 2, 1990, to showcase the art collection of the Kawamura family, the founders of DIC Corporation. As a private museum operated by DIC, it has long been dedicated to disseminating high-quality art and culture. However, the museum will conclude its operations in Sakura on March 31, 2025. It is scheduled to relocate and reopen in a scaled-down capacity at the International House of Japan in Minato, Tokyo, in 2030. Currently, it serves as a precious cultural hub during this transitional period.
The greatest charm currently lies in the natural environment, with parts of the garden open to visitors to experience the changing seasons. The vast grounds feature ponds, fountains, paths, and various sculptures, allowing you to enjoy a stroll that feels like walking through a beautiful park. While the focus was previously on viewing art in exhibition rooms, the current appeal lies in the space's coexistence with nature, drawing visitors with its tranquil atmosphere. The seasonal transformations of the plants and the beautifully maintained landscapes offer new discoveries every time you visit.
While the museum is beautiful year-round, the mild seasons of Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) are ideal for strolling through the gardens. In spring, you can enjoy fresh greenery and blooming flowers, while autumn offers stunning foliage. During the bright daylight hours, the ponds, fountains, and paths shine beautifully, allowing you to feel the energy of nature. If you seek a more quiet experience, visiting during less crowded hours will allow you to listen more deeply to the sounds of nature.
Since the current experience focuses on the open garden areas, activities primarily include walking through nature and resting while admiring the scenery. You can enjoy a relaxing time walking along wide lawns and paths while observing seasonal plants. While the museum once featured extensive indoor facilities, the true value of visiting now lies in the experience of simply 'spending time within nature.'
The area around Sakura City offers other cultural spots. For instance, near Keisei Sakura Station, you can visit the Sakura City Museum to see local historical architecture and works by local artists. For those interested in Japanese history and ethnology, the National Museum of Japanese History is also highly recommended. It provides a visual learning experience through dioramas and reconstructed models. Visiting these sites alongside the museum will provide a much deeper understanding of Japanese culture.
As the main activity is strolling through the gardens, we strongly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please prepare your clothing according to the season to enjoy nature comfortably. Since the operational structure has changed, it is important to check the latest opening status and available areas in advance. To protect the natural environment, please follow etiquette such as taking your trash home and being mindful of the plants.