Hida Takayama Museum of Art

Overview and Charm

The Hida Takayama Museum of Art is a specialized museum for glass art and fine furniture, nestled within the Sanctuary Court Takayama resort in the beautiful natural surroundings of Takayama, Gifu Prefecture. The museum houses an extraordinary collection of over 1,000 pieces, focusing on extremely rare glass art produced worldwide between the 16th and 20th centuries. This includes exquisite Art Nouveau and Art Deco masterpieces, as well as historical furniture and lighting from the late 19th century. More than just a viewing facility, it functions as an 'Art Gallery Resort,' where the greatest charm lies in the ability to immerse yourself in the art of light within a serene, tranquil space away from the bustle of daily life.

History and Cultural Background

The museum's predecessor was the former Hida Takayama Museum, which opened in 1997. After a temporary closure in 2020, it reopened on April 11, 2024, as part of a renewal project by Resorttrust, integrated into the membership-based luxury resort 'Sanctuary Court Takayama Art Gallery Resort.' While preserving and inheriting its historical collection, the museum presents a new form of art appreciation that fuses traditional aesthetic sensibilities with a modern, luxury resort atmosphere.

Main Highlights

The museum consists of several themed exhibition rooms, each offering a different experience of light and beauty. Key rooms include:

• *Exhibition Room 1 (Galle no Mori ~Art Nouveau~)**: Experience the delicate world of Art Nouveau, which pursues the beauty of natural forms.
• *Exhibition Room 2 (Utsuroi no Ma)**: A quiet, much more mystical space where one can feel the subtle changes in light.
• *Exhibition Room 3 (Art Deco)**: A display of modern designs characterized by striking linear and geometric beauty.
• *Exhibition Room 4 (Art Gallery)**: The main space where a diverse range of artworks are exhibited.
• *Exhibition Room 5 (Hikari no Gallery)**: An exhibition designed to maximize the essence of glass art: the reflection and transmission of light.

Seasonal Recommendations

The museum shows different expressions depending on the season. We especially recommend visiting during the lush greenery season or during times of day when the light is particularly beautiful. From May to August, the museum hosts special events, such as a limited-edition afternoon tea at the Italian restaurant 'RISTORANTE OZIO,' inspired by the museum's fountains. Visiting during the bright daylight hours allows you to appreciate the transparency and brilliance of the glass, while visiting near dusk offers a more contemplative and immersive atmosphere.

Experiences and Activities

Beyond visual appreciation, you can experience art through all five senses. Special exhibitions and sales events held periodically allow for a deeper connection with specific collections. Since it is located within Sanctuary Court Takayama, you can combine your museum visit with a luxurious stay, enjoying fine dining or shopping at the boutique to create a perfect blend of art, gastronomy, and relaxation.

Surrounding Area

The museum is part of the 'Sanctuary Court Takayama' resort complex. The facility includes 'RISTORANTE OZIO,' an Italian restaurant serving high-quality cuisine, and a sophisticated boutique. This allows guests to transition seamlessly from art appreciation to an elegant afternoon. Furthermore, the surrounding Takayama area is famous for its historic streets and rich nature, making the museum an excellent base for a comprehensive Takayama sightseeing plan.

Items, Clothing, and Etiquette

To ensure a comfortable visit, please observe the following rules:

• *Clothing**: We kindly ask that guests refrain from wearing overly casual attire (such as tank tops, shorts, or beach sandals) that exposes too much skin. A smart-casual style is recommended.
• *Belongings**: Please use the lockers or umbrella stands near the entrance for large bags, umbrellas, tripods, or selfie sticks. Food, beverages, flammable materials, or strong-smelling items are prohibited.
• *Children**: Children must be accompanied by an adult. For preschool-aged children, please use a stroller or ensure they are holding hands at all times.
• *Etiquette**: Please do not touch the artworks. Eating, drinking, smoking, or loud conversations (including phone calls) are prohibited to maintain a respectful environment for all guests.