Guida
The Machiko Hasegawa Museum was established to commemorate the life and work of the renowned manga artist Machiko Hasegawa. It serves as a sanctuary for her creations and the exquisite art collection she curated alongside her sister, Mariko. The museum houses a diverse collection ranging from original manga manuscripts of her most famous work, 'Sazae-san,' to Japanese paintings, Western-style paintings, traditional crafts, and sculptures. Because the exhibitions are periodically rotated through special themed exhibitions and collection displays, every visit offers a fresh and unique perspective on art and culture.
Machiko Hasegawa is best known as the creator of 'Sazae-san' and 'Ijiwaru Baban,' works that became pillars of Japanese pop culture. Throughout her career, she and her sister Mariko collected a vast array of fine arts and traditional crafts. Originally opened in 1985 as the Hasegawa Art Museum, the institution initially focused on their art collection. However, in response to overwhelming fan enthusiasm, a dedicated section was created to showcase Machiko's original manga manuscripts and ceramic figures. Following her passing in 1992, the museum was renamed the Machiko Hasegawa Museum, and it now plays a vital role in preserving and passing down the immense cultural legacy of the Hasegawa sisters to future generations.
Exhibitions at the museum are primarily divided into 'Permanent Collection Exhibitions' and 'Special Themed Exhibitions.' The permanent collection is truly impressive, featuring 311 Japanese paintings, 250 Western-style paintings, 195 traditional crafts, and 32 sculptures, totaling 788 pieces. Visitors can also dive deep into the world of Sazae-san through displays of original manga drawings. For instance, from April to July 2026, the museum is scheduled to host the 'Women's Attire' collection exhibition and the special exhibition 'Sazae-san and Fashion,' offering a unique look at the intersection of manga and fashion history.
Please note that the museum's opening schedule varies depending on exhibition rotations. For example, the entire museum will be closed for exhibition changes from March 23 to April 3, 2026. Conversely, during periods like Golden Week (late April to early May), the museum may remain open without holidays. To ensure a fulfilling experience, we recommend checking the official website's opening calendar in advance to align your visit with specific special exhibitions or lectures. Visiting during a themed event can provide a much deeper level of engagement with the art.
Inside the museum, visitors can enjoy the museum shop and the cafe. After exploring the galleries, you can relax at the cafe or pick up unique souvenirs at the shop. Depending on the season, the museum also hosts workshops and lectures, offering cultural experiences that go beyond simple observation. These events are designed to be highly thematic, allowing visitors to engage with the art and the culture of the era in a more interactive way.
Right near the museum is the 'Machiko Hasegawa Memorial Hall,' a branch facility. While the main museum focuses heavily on the fine arts and the curated collection, the Memorial Hall is designed to introduce the worldview of Machiko Hasegawa from various more intimate angles. By visiting both the museum and the memorial hall, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of both her manga-style art and her sophisticated art collection.
To protect the delicate exhibits, please maintain a quiet and respectful atmosphere while viewing the art. There is no specific dress code, but comfortable clothing suitable for calm contemplation is recommended. As the museum closes periodically for exhibition changes, please check the official website before your visit. If you are visiting with a large group, please make a reservation or contact the museum in advance.