Guida
The Oda Museum is a private museum dedicated to the pursuit of Oriental art, located in Kowakudani, Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture. Established in 2013, it boasts an extensive collection spanning from ancient to modern eras in Japan, China, and Korea. The museum's most striking feature is its massive scale and the exceptional quality of its collection. The five-story building offers one of the largest exhibition areas in the Hakone region, inviting visitors into a world of art that feels disconnected from daily life. In particular, the original brush paintings (Nikuhitsu Ukiyo-e) of immense historical value and the exquisite craftsmanship of its artifacts provide a profound understanding of Eastern aesthetics.
The museum is situated on the site of the former 'Kaika-tei,' a hotel from the Meiji era, lending a historical atmosphere to the surroundings. Born from the founder's deep passion for collecting, the museum serves as more than just a display facility; it plays a vital role in reviving lost masterpieces. For instance, the discovery and public display of Kitagawa Utamaro's original masterpiece 'Snow in Fukagawa' and Itō Jakuchū's 'Peacock and Phoenix' at this museum became significant news in the art world. Thus, the museum acts as a cultural hub that connects fragments of history to the present day.
The collection is diverse, but the 'Nikuhitsu Ukiyo-e' (original brush paintings) and Japanese paintings are the primary draws. You can witness the living brushstrokes of masters like Katsushika Hokusai, Kitagawa Utamaro, and Uemura Shoen in their original, non-printed forms. The collection of ancient clay figures (Dogu), Haniwa, and delicate lacquerware and ceramics is equally breathtaking, offering an intuitive understanding of the evolution of beauty in the East through form and color. Additionally, the grand gold-leaf mural 'Fu-Toki' by Fukui Etaro, depicting the gods of wind and thunder, provides a truly overwhelming visual experience.
While the exhibitions can be enjoyed year-round, the experience changes depending on the time of day. During the bright daylight hours, you can contemplate the artworks in a serene atmosphere while feeling the natural light through the windows. The changing scenery of the garden offers a sense of the seasons. A perfect way to conclude your visit is to spend a relaxing afternoon at the footbath cafe, which serves as a wonderful reward during your Hakone journey.
Your visit to the Oda Museum goes beyond simple viewing. The museum offers specialized spaces for relaxation after viewing the art. At the 'Footbath Cafe,' you can soak your feet in warm water while gazing at the magnificent Fujin and Raijin mural, all while enjoying a drink or sweet treat. Furthermore, at 'Kaika-tei,' a renovated early Showa-era Japanese-style house, you can enjoy udon or tea while admiring the garden, experiencing traditional Japanese hospitality and relaxation simultaneously.
The Kowakudani area in Hakone is easily accessible via the Hakone Tozan Railway and buses, making it an ideal base for sightseeing toward Hakone Yumoto or Lake Ashi. After your museum visit, you can stay at nearby hot spring inns (Onsen) or explore the natural beauty of Hakone. The seamless integration of the museum's vast grounds with the surrounding nature makes it a highlight of any Hakone itinerary.
To ensure a comfortable visit, please note the following: