Where Art and Nature Converge: The Lee Ufan Museum

For anyone interested in contemporary art, architecture, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience in a beautiful setting, the Lee Ufan Museum  (李禹煥美術館) is recommended. It stands out not only for its artistic and architectural merits but also for the profound, meditative experience it offers.

• Unique Artistic Experience: The museum showcases the works of Lee Ufan, a prominent artist known for his contributions to the Mono-ha (School of Things) movement, which emphasizes the relationship between materials and space. The art here invites contemplation on the interaction between the observer, the artwork, and the environment.
• Architectural Harmony:  Designed by the renowned architect Tadao Ando, the museum itself is a work of art. Its semi-underground structure and the way it integrates with the natural landscape of Naoshima Island create a serene and thought-provoking environment. The building's design enhances the viewing of Lee Ufan's art, with natural light and shadows playing significant roles in the experience.
• Part of a Larger Experience: Naoshima offers several other art installations and museums, including the Chichu Art Museum by Tadao Ando, Benesse House, and various outdoor art pieces. The Lee Ufan Museum is a part of this broader artistic exploration.

Lee Ufan Museum: An Architectural Masterpiece by Tadao Ando (YouTube link)

Photo Gallery

The Lee Ufan Museum offers a tranquil experience surrounded by nature. Its location in a valley between the sea and mountains provides a peaceful setting that complements the introspective nature of the art. Visiting the museum offers insights into both contemporary art and Japanese architectural design. No exhibits inside are shown here because photos and videos were not allowed inside.

The Enchanting Seto Inland Sea (YouTube link)

The Okada Museum of Art: An Unexpected Gem in Hakone

The Museum Boasts a Rich Collection of Japanese Artworks from the Edo Period (1603–1868) and Beyond (Source: official site)

The Okada Museum of Art (岡田美術館) in Hakone, Japan, was opened in 2013 by casino magnate Kazuo Okada, showcasing his extensive collection of Japanese, Chinese, and Korean art, gathered over less than twenty years.

Okada Museum of Art: A Hidden Gem in Hakone (YouTube link)

Highlights of Okada Museum of Art

• Prime Location: Nestled near the hot springs of Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, the museum seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings. 
• Architectural Masterpiece: Designed by Miura Shin, the museum features a stunning entrance mural titled "Wind/Time" by Fukui Kotaro. 
• Diverse Collection: The museum houses approximately 450 artworks spanning five floors, including Japanese, Chinese, and Korean art. Highlights include: 
• Ancient and contemporary Japanese art 
• Chinese bronze ware, ceramics, and jade vessels 
• Lacquer works from Japan, China, Korea, and Ryukyu
• Buddhist statues from the Heian and Kamakura periods 
• Harmonious Design: The museum's architecture, designed by Miura Shin, harmoniously integrates with the natural slope of Kowakudani.

Photo Gallery

On 11/20/2024, a rainy day, I decided to visit the Okada Museum of Art to escape the rain. I was truly amazed by the vast collections of Chinese pottery, bronze ware, and jade vessels. The rich Chinese collection dates from the Western Zhou Dynasty to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Most of the ceramic comes from the Jingde Kiln (景徳窯).

Because of the museum's strict rules prohibiting photos or videos inside the exhibit areas, I can only showcase the beautiful garden outside and Kaikatei, a restaurant in a renovated old Japanese-style house with a nice view of the autumn colors of the garden in the background.  Please note, due to rain, the Museum Gardens were closed on that day.  The autumn colors displayed below were captured in the areas around the Museum and the restaurant.

Explore 15,000 Square Meters of Scenic Gardens with Streams, Waterfalls, and Ponds

Kaikatei, a restaurant in a renovated old Japanese-style house

Vibrant Autumn Colors in the Museum Gardens