The Hakone Open-Air Museum — Attraction in Hakone

Hakone Open air museum

No need to get your tickets in advance for this museum. You can get your tickets at the entrance and even if there is a q it moves pretty fast.

More than anything this place is worth visiting as it is a the space is so beautifully designed that it is easy to walk around and gives the impression of vastness.

There space is big yet cleverly integrates art with nature so that even though there are loads of statues and structures, you never feel stifled or overwhelmed. In fact you will want to walk a lot more to take in all of them.

There are loads of outdoor sculptures by various artists and some are rather interesting. Although i think the word art might be a bit stretched here on occasions when you look at the sculptures or when you read the inspiration of these artists behind their work.

Loads of outdoor exhibits and in general 2 big spaces that allow for more interaction. One is the Woods of Net which has a net structure within a wooden dome structure that allows for children to use it as a sort of net playground that they can climb on and swing on. The other is a flower petal like maze that you can walk in and try to find your way out, albeit confusing i must say. In the end i walked the same way back out the way i entered instead of finding the other exit.

As for indoor exhibits, there are 3 (Hakone master piece collection, multi hall that is at the exit, and Picasso Pavilion).

I think the one that people generally spend the most time, is at the Picasso Pavillion. Interestingly instead of chronologically displaying his works or capturing it according to his life:

“This latest exhibit deconstructs the artist himself, presenting perspectives from different angles, such as subject matter and technique, and different points in time, by date of the artwork, so that the viewer may then reconstruct their image of Picasso.

For this exhibit, works from the Picasso Collection have been divided into 17 themes, creating a free and natural exhibition space unbound by chronology.

The Picasso of this exhibit is one who defies definition by a single perspective or specific point in time—Picasso as a continuum transcending time and space.”

The one i enjoyed the most was the symphonic structure. There a circular tower captures the four seasons through stained glass that leads you to an open air space on top with a great view of the museum and the trees and...

Great way to experience art and nature! Amazing 120 huge sculptures and art installations set outside on the hilly 17 acres of the museum. The art varies from greatly but is modern and contemporary. It is about a 5 minute walk from the Chokoku-no-Mori Station to the entrance payment windows. It is very affordable at ¥2,000 or USD $13 per adult with small discounts for students and Hakone Free Pass. We took the escalator down the hill and then strolled in a clockwise direction enjoying the scenery and art – down a hill, taking a break on a brightly colored art sofa sculpture, down the path, across the bridge, up some stairs admiring the artwork along the way, into the star shaped maze, into the jumbo Lincoln log type structure where children under 12 could play on the netting… Then into indoor Picasso Pavillion which contains another 319 pieces and is a good place to warm up (we visited in February). And on the far side of the museum is the café which has a very limited menu with 2 “food” items of muffin and hot dog with some additional sweets and drinks; it also sells some fabric bags and other tchotchkes. Nearby the café is an outdoor natural hot-spring foot bath. In the excitement to try the bath that we didn’t realize we should buy a ¥100 towel until after our feet were wet! After drying off our foot, we strolled back pausing to pose on the jumbo fried egg. Upon reaching the entrance an hour and 20 minutes later, we stopped in the larger museum shop. Then we used our Hakone Free Pass to take the Hakone Tozan Train from Chokoku-no-Mori Station one stop back to Gora Station. It was unique, beautiful, different...

Visiting the Hakone Open-Air Museum was a highlight of our trip to Japan. Nestled in the scenic hills of Hakone, this museum seamlessly blends art with nature, offering a unique and enriching experience.

The museum's expansive grounds are home to over 120 sculptures by renowned artists such as Henry Moore, Taro Okamoto, and Yasuo Mizui. Wandering through the beautifully landscaped gardens, we encountered thought-provoking pieces that invited interaction and reflection. A standout was the Symphonic Sculpture, an 18-meter-tall tower adorned with stained glass, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

One of the museum's most captivating features is the Picasso Pavilion, housing approximately 300 works by the legendary artist. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and ceramics, providing insight into Picasso's diverse artistic journey.

For families, the museum offers interactive installations like the Woods of Net and Curved Space-Diamond Structure, which engage children and adults alike. These installations encourage exploration and play, making the museum both educational and fun.

After exploring the exhibits, we relaxed at the footbath area, where natural hot spring water soothes tired feet amidst a tranquil forest setting. This unique feature added a layer of relaxation to our visit.

With its harmonious blend of art, nature, and relaxation, the Hakone Open-Air Museum offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you're an art enthusiast or seeking a peaceful retreat, this museum is a must-visit...