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.

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