A Journey Through Autumn: Hakone Museum of Art

Hakone Museum of Art: A Journey Through Seasons

The Hakone Museum of Art, founded in 1952 by Okada Mokichi, is renowned for its exceptional collection of Japanese ceramics dating from prehistoric times through the Edo period. Housed in a serene setting, the museum boasts a captivating moss garden, a tranquil Japanese landscape garden (Sekirakuen), and a charming teahouse named Shinwatei.

Sekirakuen 

A stream flows through a grassy area adorned with uniquely arranged volcanic rocks within the Sekiraku-en garden. This garden offers a distinct ambiance, more open than the moss garden. Panoramic views of Mount Myōjō, Mount Asama, and the Sagami Bay stretch across the horizon. 

Photo Gallery

This was my second visit to the MOA (i.e., Museum of Art). After seeing a photo (above) of the teahouse's window ablaze with autumn colors in April 2024, I decided to return to MOA during the fall season. My visit on November 20, 2024, a sunny day, did not disappoint. The maple trees in the Sekiraku-en Garden were nearing their peak color. The following photos capture the breathtaking autumnal hues I witnessed that day.

A charming teahouse named Shinwatei, bustling with customers

The hostess served the guests at the teahouse

Autumn Colors at Hakone MOA (YouTube link)

Autumn Colors at Hakone MOA (2/2; YouTube link)

A Surreal Journey: Exploring the Chichu Art Museum

Panoramic Sea Views at the Museum Cafe

The Chichu Art Museum (地中美術館), founded in 2004, is a subterranean sanctuary dedicated to exploring the harmonious relationship between art and nature. Designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, the museum seamlessly blends into the stunning landscape of the Seto Inland Sea. 

The museum's collection features masterpieces by renowned artists such as Claude Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria. As natural light filters through the building, the artworks and the surrounding space come alive, creating a dynamic and ever-changing experience. 

The collaborative effort between artists and architects resulted in a truly unique and immersive space. The entire museum can be considered a site-specific artwork, where the building itself becomes an integral part of the art experience.

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We visited the Chichu Art Museum on November 29, 2024, a cloudy day. While the museum's policy prohibited photography and videography within the exhibition spaces (except before the reception desk), we were able to capture some photos of the exterior and the cafe areas. 

A Serene Pond: The Perfect Museum Prelude

A Casual Lunch with a View: The Museum Cafe

Enjoying the Outdoors: Al Fresco Dining at the Museum Cafe

Stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea

Art & Nature: Chichu Art Museum (YouTube link)

Witness the 500 Arhats 五百羅漢 in Autumn Splendor

Autumn's Embrace at Choanji Temple

Choanji Temple (長安寺): 

• A Timeless Retreat: Founded in 1356, Choanji Temple is a serene sanctuary nestled amidst nature in Hakone, Japan. Its main hall, believed to date back to the temple's inception, exudes historical charm. 
• The Enchanting 500 Arhats: A highlight of the temple is the collection of 500 Arhat statues, each with a unique expression. These lifelike figures, crafted by contemporary sculptors, capture the full range of human emotions, from joy to sorrow. The statues are gradually being added to the bamboo forest, creating a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere. 
• A Seasonal Delight: Choanji Temple is renowned for its stunning seasonal beauty. In autumn, the temple grounds are ablaze with colorful foliage, offering a breathtaking spectacle.

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On November 21, 2024, we visited Choanji Temple to witness its autumnal splendor. We were rewarded with a breathtaking sight: the 500 Arhats, seemingly brought to life by the vibrant autumn foliage. 

These 500 Arhats are disciples of Buddha who attained enlightenment. Each statue, with its unique expression, captures the full spectrum of human emotion, from joy to sorrow. The autumn colors added a layer of depth, making the statues appear even more alive. 

Signpost of 500 Arhats 五百羅漢

長安寺 Autumn Colors 1 of 2 (YouTube link)

長安寺 Autumn Colors 2 of 2 (YouTube link)

Beyond the Canvas: Experiencing Art with a View at Narukawa Museum

Breathtaking vistas of the Torii Gate, Lake Ashi, and Mount Fuji (though obscured by clouds in this photo)

The Narukawa Museum of Art is a relaxing space where nature and art converge. If you are interested in Japanese painting, I encourage you to visit during your travels to Hakone. 

Key Features of the Collection:  

• The museum boasts a collection of over 4,000 contemporary Japanese paintings, featuring numerous works by artists who have received the Order of Culture (文化勲章受章画家の作品).

Museum Highlights:  

• A Sense of Unity with Nature: Enjoy the serene ambiance and admire the majestic scenery of Lake Ashi while immersing yourself in the world of Japanese painting. 

The museum's spacious lounge features large-paned windows

Enjoying the view of Lake Ashi from the lounge's sofas

An elderly gentleman enjoyed a peaceful moment amidst the autumn colors

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In Hakone, the presence of numerous museums with diverse themes reflects the competitive nature of the tourism industry in Japan, where many small businesses strive to attract visitors. Many of these museums boast impressive views, such as scenic landscapes or breathtaking vistas. 

For the Narukawa Museum of Art, I'm particularly drawn to its Lake Ashi views, especially during rainy days. The museum offers comfortable seating areas with large windows, providing a perfect vantage point to observe the activities on the lake while enjoying the art. 

The following photos were taken on November 19, 2024, a rainy day. 

Sacred Trees in Japan: The Significance of Shimenawa

Narukawa Museum of Art (YouTube link)

Stunning Lake Ashi Views at Narukawa Museum(YouTube link)