Ohara Museum of Art

At the Ohara Museum of Art, the first thing to enjoy is the art. Not only modern and contemporary Japanese art, but the Ohara Museum of Art is also Japan's first private Western art museum, with many Western art pieces on display. Famous paintings by Picasso, Gauguin, El Greco, and others are exhibited, as well as Western contemporary art and ancient Egyptian art. Please feel the thoughts of the artists by touching many artworks.

The Ohara Museum of Art has three buildings that exhibit artworks. Each building showcases different genres of art. In the "Main Building," Western masterpieces are displayed. Paintings by El Greco, Claude Monet, Picasso, and Gauguin are exhibited, so those interested in Western art should definitely visit the Main Building. In the "Annex," works by artists such as Kishida Ryusei and Sekine Shozo, as well as contemporary art, are displayed. The "Crafts and Oriental Building" mainly exhibits ceramics and prints. Why not take a look at the building that has the artwork you're interested in?

Did you know that the Ohara Museum of Art offers a morning tour? The museum is rented out exclusively for participants of the morning tour, which takes place before the museum opens to the public. While listening to commentary from a guide about the works and behind-the-scenes stories, you can learn all about the Ohara Museum of Art. This is a special tour that only those who have made reservations can participate in, so be sure to check in advance if you are interested.

The appeal of the Ohara Museum of Art is not limited to its artwork. There are also hidden attractions on the museum grounds and inside the building, aside from the artwork. The main building, resembling a Greek temple, and the Crafts and Oriental Art Museum, with its design featuring a namako wall, are both very stylish! Additionally, pay attention to the design of the round windows, the stained glass walls, and the brick floors that make a popping sound when walked on. You may discover your favorite spot or design that is not related to the artwork!

Water lilies bloom in the pond next to the Craft and Oriental Art Museum at the Ohara Museum of Art. These water lilies were actually propagated from the garden pond of the famous painter Claude Monet's home! The transplanted water lilies were further propagated and now fill the entire pond. During the blooming season, they produce cute yellow and pink flowers. If you visit the Ohara Museum of Art, it might be a good idea to also take a look at the pond's water lilies along with Monet's paintings! The blooming season for water lilies is from mid-May to mid-October, so it's recommended to visit during this season.