Guida
The Chihiro Art Museum Azumino, located in Matsukawa Village, Nagano Prefecture, is the world's first museum dedicated to the art of the picture book. The architecture is designed to blend seamlessly into the natural environment of Azumino, where the beauty of the Northern Alps' lingering snow and fresh greenery creates a sense of unity between the building and the landscape. Here, the museum showcases the works of Chihiro Iwasaki alongside a precious collection of works by illustrators from around the world. It is a space where nature, architecture, and the world of picture books converge to offer a profound sense of tranquility.
The museum was established to preserve and pass down the spirit of the painter Chihiro Iwasaki to future generations. The exhibited works are not merely paintings but serve as vital historical documents that tell the story of the culture of the picture book. The collection includes original works from diverse artists across Asia, Europe, and America, making it a significant cultural hub for understanding the diversity of expression within the medium of picture books.
The museum features several exhibition rooms organized by theme. Key areas include "Chihiro's Work," which focuses on her representative original drawings; "Chihiro's Life," which introduces her journey chronologically; and "World Picture Book Artists," which showcases original works from illustrators globally. The museum also hosts seasonal exhibitions and displays historical materials related to the history of picture books. Furthermore, the facility is designed for all ages, featuring the "Picture Book Room" where visitors can browse approximately 3,000 books, and the "Children's Room," designed to foster creativity.
The landscape offers a different charm depending on the season. In spring, the contrast between the remaining snow of the Northern Alps and the fresh greenery is striking, while early summer brings a lush, vibrant green. Standard opening hours are 10:00–17:00, but please note that during Golden Week (April 25 – May 6) and the Summer Season (July 18 – August 31), hours may change to 9:00–17:00. We recommend visiting at a leisurely pace to enjoy the changing scenery and seasonal exhibitions.
Beyond viewing the exhibits, you can interact with a vast collection of books in the "Picture Book Room." The on-site cafe offers light meals, sweets, and herbal teas made with local ingredients, allowing you to savor the lingering emotions of the artwork while gazing at the Northern Alps. The museum shop is also a great place to purchase unique goods inspired by the artworks. Additionally, workshops related to picture book creation are occasionally held throughout the year.
The museum is situated in the nature-rich Azumino area. Nearby, you can enjoy strolls through natural facilities like Azumino Park. For access, it is common to take a taxi from JR Shinano-Matsukawa Station or use a rental bicycle. Seasonal buses, such as the Azumino Enjoy Bus or the Shinano-Omachi Loop Bus, can also be used to visit the museum in conjunction with other local sightseeing spots.
To protect the artworks and maintain a quiet environment, please observe proper museum etiquette. Photography policies vary by exhibition room, so please follow local instructions. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and dressing appropriately for the season.