Guida
The Bato Hiroshige Museum of Art is a municipal museum located in Nakagawa Town, Nasu District, Tochigi Prefecture. It houses a highly valuable collection of Japanese art, centered around the hand-painted works (nikuhitsu-ga) and woodblock prints of the legendary Utagawa Hiroshige. Beyond the art itself, the building is a masterpiece of modern architecture, designed by the world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma. The structure integrates local materials, such as Yamizo Sugi (cedar), to harmonize with the surrounding natural landscape. The museum is not just a place to view art, but a work of art in its own right, offering visitors a serene and meditative experience.
The core of this museum's collection is the "Aoki Collection," gathered by Mr. Toshisaku Aoki. During the Taisho and Showa eras, Mr. Aoki passionately collected Utagawa Hiroshige's hand-painted works, woodblock prints, calligraphy by Sohei Tokutomi, and various traditional crafts and books. This collection was donated to Nakagawa Town, leading to the museum's opening in 2000. The name "Hiroshige" in the museum's title honors the central figure of the collection, Utagawa Hiroshige. The museum is particularly notable for its extensive holdings of Hiroshige's hand-painted works, which are exceptionally rare even by national standards.
The primary attraction is the collection of Utagawa Hiroshige's hand-painted works and woodblock prints. The lineup is remarkably rich, featuring over a dozen hand-painted pieces, including works by Tendo Hiroshige, which is a rarity compared to other museums in Japan. Additionally, the museum holds approximately 4,500 items, including works by Seiyoshi Kobayashi, Kiyochika Kobayashi, and Sohei Tokutomi, alongside precious crafts and books that convey the essence of Japanese beauty across eras. The design of the exhibition rooms, where natural materials and architectural beauty meet, creates an immersive environment for deep appreciation.
The museum is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Visiting during the bright daylight hours allows you to fully appreciate the harmony between natural light and the architectural design. The museum hosts special exhibitions several times a year, which vary by season. Please note that the last entry is at 4:30 PM, so we recommend arriving with plenty of time to spare. As the museum may close temporarily for exhibition changes, it is advisable to check the official website before your visit.
Visitors can gain a profound understanding of Ukiyo-e, the traditional Japanese visual art, through the direct and intimate expression of hand-painted works. Observing the delicate brushstrokes and subtle color gradations of hand-painted pieces provides a much deeper insight into Japanese culture than viewing prints alone. Furthermore, for those interested in architecture, the building itself offers a significant experience, as it is a striking example of modern Japanese design.
The area surrounding the museum features several cozy restaurants, including Soba shops and Western-style cafes, where you can enjoy a meal in a tranquil environment. There is also a cafe located within the museum (check for seasonal availability) where you can relax after your cultural tour. Exploring the local culture while enjoying the natural beauty of Nakagawa Town is highly recommended.
To protect the precious exhibits and maintain a quiet atmosphere, please follow museum etiquette. While there is no specific dress code, comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the area.