Osaka Prefectural Sayamaike Museum — Attraction in Osakasayama

Jan. 25th, 2024: I found this place from a video on YouTube by an architect highlighting some of Japan’s finest architectural structures.

I was hesitant to visit at first because although I love admiring architecture, I was never passionate about ancient reservoirs or irrigation systems. I am glad I got over myself and made the visit.

It was eerily quiet and empty during my visit, but that only enhanced the experience of slowly working my way through the entire museum, undisturbed. Without distraction, I learned everything the museum had to offer. I like think I am a better man as a result; learning to learn about and appreciate subjects that would rarely cross my mind.

Visit. Enjoy. Be alone with your thoughts in this beautiful...

More than an hour from central Osaka, this is museum is a must for Tadao Ando fans. The other Ando masterpiece has a waiting list so this is more accessible.

Entrance is free! Take your time walking around the museum. The sound of the courtyard "waterfall" is mesmerizing. The circular element actually utilizes an acoustic phenomena. Stand in the center and clap or speak and you will hear it magnified. The curved walls are perfectly constructed to bounce back sound to the center perfectly.

They have English guides who are more than willing to give you a tour of the museum. Inside, you will find a preserved section of the pond embankment showing its evolution. The ancient water pipes are also quite a...

This is the most impressive “technical museum “ I have ever visited around the world. I came to admire another Ando’s architectural work, but I was surprised by the purpose of this museum. They took a cross section of the dam foundation, which is a small mountain itself, preserved it, then asked Ando to design a museum around it. The construction, design concept, renovations and structural engineering are detailed and recreated so people can appreciate the significance of this flood control dam. The museum cafe is on the ground floor and it is one of the best operated one I have ever experienced. The owner is very dedicated to provide a service to match this unique...