Guida
The Sagawa Art Museum is situated in a scenic location overlooking Lake Biwa in Moriyama City, Shiga Prefecture. Opened in March 1998, the museum provides a space where nature, architecture, and art become one. The site features a central water garden, with three buildings designed to appear as if they are floating within it, harmonizing perfectly with the surrounding natural environment. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of artworks, including Japanese paintings, sculptures, and ceramics, while simultaneously appreciating the ever-changing scenery of the seasons.
The museum was established as part of the 40th-anniversary project of Sagawa Express Co., Ltd. Its mission is to contribute to the promotion and development of art and culture, serving as an open institution for both the local community and the world. The collection includes notable names such as Ikuo Hayama (Japanese painting), Tadayoshi Sato (sculpture), and Jikinyu Raku (ceramics). Furthermore, the architecture itself has received numerous accolades, including the Good Design Award and the Architectural Institute of Japan Award, playing a significant role in the history of modern Japanese architecture.
The most striking feature is the aesthetic beauty of the architecture floating on the water garden. This space, where buildings and nature merge, displays a different character through every season. The exhibitions focus on Japanese paintings, sculptures, and ceramics, allowing visitors to touch upon both traditional Japanese beauty and contemporary sensibilities. Additionally, some structures include a tea room, and visitors can observe the ingenious blend of traditional spatial composition with modern elements, such as the titanium-made roofs. Even outside the exhibition rooms, spending time by the water offers an experience far removed from daily life.
The museum's appearance shifts with the passage of the seasons. From spring to summer, the greenery of the water garden and the brilliance of the water are particularly striking, while in autumn, the surrounding landscape becomes rich with color. The museum is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Visiting during the calm afternoon hours allows you to deeply feel the changes in the architecture's expression due to the shifting light and the textures of the exhibited works. The seasonal landscape is deeply connected to the themes of the artworks on display.
In addition to viewing the artworks, the museum occasionally hosts cultural events such as tea ceremonies and workshops for children. These events provide opportunities to connect with traditional Japanese aesthetics within a serene environment. The architecture itself serves as a piece of art; as you move through the buildings, you can experience the subtle boundaries between the interior and the external scenery. Even in non-exhibition areas, one can feel the profound harmony between nature and man-made structures.
The museum is located in a picturesque area with views of Lake Biwa. The surrounding environment is rich in nature, where cultural activities and scenic beauty coexist. Nearby, there are areas deeply connected to local life and scenic spots that utilize the natural landscape, allowing visitors to enjoy the surrounding scenery even after their museum visit.
To maintain a serene environment, visitors are asked to follow certain etiquette. Please maintain a quiet voice and observe silence while viewing exhibits. Touching the artworks or display cases is strictly prohibited. When taking notes, please use a pencil to prevent ink stains. For large items or valuables, coin-operated lockers are available. Pets are not allowed inside. If visiting with children, please hold their hands for their safety.