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When you step into the vast garden embraced by the mountains of Hakone, it feels like entering a dreamlike world woven by art and nature. Opened in 1969 as Japan’s first open-air museum, the Hakone Open-Air Museum is spread across approximately 70,000 square meters, where about 120 masterpieces by leading modern and contemporary sculptors are scattered throughout the grounds.
The sculptures standing on the lush green lawns harmonize with the changing scenery of the four seasons, quietly stirring the hearts of visitors. For example, the works of Henry Moore, with their smooth curves and powerful forms, are arranged to blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings. Nearby, Rodin’s robust bronze statues speak to people across time.
As you continue through the park, the 18-meter-tall tower “Symphonic Sculpture of Happiness” comes into view. Created by Gabriel Loire, the interior of this work is adorned with stained glass, and the light streaming in from outside creates a fantastical space like a kaleidoscope. Climbing the spiral staircase leads you to an observation deck with a panoramic view of the Hakone mountains, allowing you to fully experience the fusion of nature and art.
If you head toward the sounds of children’s laughter, you will find the “Net Forest,” a colorful net installation. This interactive art piece features a giant hand-knitted hammock suspended inside a wooden dome, creating a space where children can play freely and experience color and form.
Further along, the Picasso Pavilion appears. Here, more than 300 diverse works by the 20th-century master Pablo Picasso—including paintings, prints, drawings, and ceramics—are displayed in rotation. In particular, the 188 ceramic works inherited from Picasso’s eldest daughter, Maya Picasso, have captivated many art lovers, as this is Japan’s first private Picasso museum.
If you grow tired from walking, taking a break at the footbath, which uses natural hot spring water from within the grounds, is a pleasant option. While gazing at Hakone’s natural scenery and the sculptures, soaking your feet in the warm water will soothe both body and mind.
Additionally, the rest area “Pocket,” which opened in 2021, features colorful sofas arranged on the grassy slope, offering a new space to relax among the sculptures and lawns. Here, you can spend a leisurely time while enjoying the view of Hakone’s nature.
The Hakone Open-Air Museum is not just a place to appreciate artworks; it is a space where nature and art are united, allowing you to experience its charm with all five senses. Why not free your mind and feel the breath of art amid Hakone’s rich natural surroundings?