What other travelers are saying about Hakone Open-Air Museum
Must visit in Hakone/Japan. The displays, the sculpture, artworks and the place are beautiful. This is probably the best musuem I have gone so far.
I recommend buying ticket online so you wont need to queue. Its discounted if bought online or if you have the Hakone Freepass. There werent much visitors when we went. It was on a weekday after the Golden Week.
The Picasso Pavilion is a dedicated space that exhibits over 300 works of the famous artist Pablo Picasso. These works include ceramics, paintings, prints, and textiles. The collection gives insights into the various creative periods of Picasso's life.
Yes, you are allowed to take photographs for personal use. However, using tripods and drones is prohibited. Also, some special exhibitions may have restrictions on photography.
The museum houses a unique Children’s Adventure Park. This park has various interactive sculptures designed for children to climb and play on. It's a great place for kids to enjoy art in a tactile way.
Yes, the museum has a gift shop where visitors can buy souvenirs, including reproductions of famous artworks, postcards, books, and other museum-themed items.
The museum is open all year round and each season offers a unique experience. However, many visitors suggest that spring and autumn are particularly beautiful due to the cherry blossoms and fall foliage respectively.
A beautiful open air museum that features mostly sculptures outdoors but also some paintings and other art. There’s also a whole pavilion dedicated to Picasso.
This place is definitely worth visiting especially when it’s good weather. Some of the exhibits are also interactive which was super fun. Don’t skip this!
Okay, real talk? The Hakone Open-Air Museum completely stole our hearts. We almost skipped it for another day of the hakone ropeways, but I’m so so so glad we didn’t.
You know how some museums feel stuffy? This is the opposite. It’s like art decided to go play in the most beautiful mountain valley in Gora.
I got unexpectedly emotional in the Picasso building, seeing so many of his works in one quiet, light-filled space. It just hit different. his quote also sums up his works.
"It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child,"
The best moment, though, was totally unplanned. We rounded a corner and there was this massive, serene sculpture by Carl Milles framed by rolling mist over the hills. We all just stopped and stared. It was one of those travel moments you can’t plan for.
The sculpture "Sunglitter" was also a highlight of the day. Featuring a neried riding a dolphin.
We ended our visit happy, tired and feet very sore, laughing about the day. It wasn’t just looking at art; it was feeling it in your soul.
Perfect for families, couples, or anyone needing a beautiful breath of fresh air. 10/10, I would blissfully get lost there again.
A must see if you ever go to Gora or Hakone.(P.S. Gora is way way way closer.)
The Hakone Open-Air Museum was a wonderful experience. My favorite piece was the “Symphonic Sculpture”, a stunning tower made of sculptured glass, iron, and epoxy resin. Its walls are created from 480 sheets of stained glass, filling the interior with colorful light—truly a “symphony performed by light.” Climbing the spiral staircase inside was fun, and the rooftop offers a beautiful panoramic view of the Hakone mountains.
Just next to the sculpture is a natural hot spring foot bath where you can relax your feet, which was an unexpected bonus. I also enjoyed exploring the interactive maze with its multiple paths. Overall, the museum perfectly blends art, nature, and relaxation, making it a must-visit in Hakone.
Outstanding open air museum! A stunning combination of nature and art that makes for a memorable experience. A combination of big names and lesser known artists. Well laid out and engaging. A real joy to be in the middle of the mountains and experience art. Feels like the optimum way to do it!
