Guida
The Asahi Group Oyamazaki Yamasou Museum is a premier art institution located in Oyamazaki, Kyoto Prefecture. The museum is centered around a beautifully restored British-style villa designed in the early Showa era by industrialist Shotaro Kaga, which opened as a museum in 1996. It is celebrated not only for its architectural significance but also for its profound collection of Mingest (folk art) and masterpieces of modern art, including Claude Monet's 'Water Lilies.' The space offers a sublime experience where historical architecture and contemporary sensibility merge seamlessly.
The main building is a three-story English Tudor-style villa completed in 1932. Shotaro Kaga meticulously designed every detail, from the architecture to the gardens and even the furniture. After a period of neglect following the war, a preservation movement led to its rebirth as a museum in 1996. The core of the collection was amassed by Tamzaburo Yamamoto, the founder of Asahi Breweries. Yamamoto was a major supporter of the 'Mingei Movement' (folk art movement) championed by Soetsu Yanagi, and the museum houses many works that align with this profound artistic philosophy.
The museum is characterized by the harmony between the historic main building and modern structures. The main building features exhibition rooms on the first floor and a cafe/terrace on the second. A standout feature is the 'Chikyu-kan' (Underground Museum) designed by the renowned architect Tadao Ando, which houses works like Monet's 'Water Lilies.' Additionally, the 'Yamate-kan' is adjacent for modern art displays. The collection includes ceramics and textiles by masters such as Shoji Hamada, Bernard Leach, and Kanjiro Kawai, alongside world-class modern art by figures like Modigliani, Paul Klee, and Isamu Noguchi.
The museum is surrounded by lush gardens that change beautifully with the seasons. A visit during the cherry blossom season in April is highly recommended. From the terrace, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Yodo River and the Kyoto basin. The natural light during the day creates a stunning atmosphere for viewing art, and the shifting light toward evening offers another unique way to experience the landscape.
Beyond art appreciation, the cafe offers a relaxing experience. From the rooms facing the terrace, you can gaze out over the Yodo River and the Kyoto basin. You can even enjoy local treats and perhaps even taste Asahi Super Dry beer in this luxurious setting. For a souvenir, the museum shop offers original items, such as bags and stationery, featuring motifs from Monet's 'Water Lilies.'
The area around the museum is rich in history, with many temples and shrines nearby, such as Hoshaku-ji and Yamazaki Seiten. It is also a great area for nature walks near the Tennozan hiking course. While the museum is within walking distance from the station, the path has some slopes, so using public transport or a shuttle is more convenient.
Please follow museum rules to protect the artworks. While there is no specific dress code, comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the gardens and terraces. English-language guides and an English website are available to assist international visitors.