Guida
The Kasama Nichido Museum of Art, located in Kasama City, Ibaraki Prefecture, is a prestigious institution with roots in a renowned Japanese art dealership. Established in 1972 by the couple Jin and Niko Hasegawa, the museum houses over 3,000 works, including significant pieces of Western modern art and Japanese modern/contemporary art. A particularly extraordinary highlight is the collection of 'palettes' (the boards used by artists to mix paint) used by famous painters from both Japan and abroad, representing a rare and invaluable treasure in art history.
The museum's history is deeply intertwined with the Hasegawa family, who were highly respected art dealers in Ginza, Tokyo. The museum was established in Kasama to commemorate the golden wedding anniversary of the founders. Furthermore, the museum features a unique annex called 'Shunpu Manri-so,' a 300-square-meter traditional thatched-roof house once used as a residence by the legendary artist Rosanjin Kitaoji. This building, relocated from Kamakura, Kanagawa, serves as a cultural hub that preserves the lifestyle and artistic philosophy of the era.
The most significant attraction is the 'Palette Collection,' which is unparalleled worldwide. The museum displays over 340 palettes, allowing visitors to trace the footsteps of Japanese Western-style painting masters such as Yuichi Takahashi, Ryusei Kishida, and Yuzo Saeki. In the Palette Gallery, these precious tools are exhibited alongside masterpieces of Japanese modern and contemporary Western-style painting. Additionally, at the Shunpu Manri-so annex, you can experience the preserved space of Rosanjin Kitaoji, witnessing the fusion of diverse artistic fields including ceramics, cuisine, calligraphy, and painting.
While the museum's exhibitions can be enjoyed year-round, the surrounding Kasama area is particularly beautiful during Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November). Visiting during these seasons allows you to immerse yourself in art amidst changing natural landscapes. The bright daylight hours are ideal for viewing the art in the exhibition rooms, and the soft afternoon light beautifully highlights the rustic charm of the thatched-roof Shunpu Manri-so.
Beyond simple observation, the museum offers an immersive journey into historical spaces. At Shunpu Manri-so, visitors can understand the architectural structure and lifestyle of the past through the displayed items. The museum also serves as a gateway to the wider Kasama art scene, which includes the Kasama Art Forest Park and the Ibaraki Ceramic Art Museum, making it a perfect starting point for an artistic tour of the region.
The museum is situated in a vibrant cultural area. Within the Kasama Art Forest Park, you can explore the Ibaraki Ceramic Art Museum and Kasama Craft Hill to experience the local pottery culture. Nearby facilities like the Kasama Inari Shrine and the Sports Car Museum also contribute to a rich cultural-themed itinerary.
To protect the precious artworks, a quiet atmosphere is strictly maintained. Regarding attire, it is recommended to avoid overly revealing clothing or large accessories that might accidentally touch the exhibits. Payments at the reception or shop can be made via cash or credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.). While English signage and explanations are available, it is helpful to research the exhibits in advance for a deeper understanding. Please note that photography may be restricted in certain areas. As some parts of the museum may have uneven surfaces, wearing comfortable walking shoes is advised.