Hakone Open-Air Museum｜Enjoy Art While Relaxing in Nature

During our trip to Hakone, we specifically set aside half a day to visit the "Hakone Open-Air Museum." If you love photography and enjoy leisurely walks, this place is perfect for you. The entrance fee is around ¥1600, and most of the exhibits are outdoors. The museum is built on grassy slopes, making it easy and comfortable to walk around. There are also plenty of spots to sit and relax. 🖼️ The museum features various sculptures displayed on the grass. While we didn’t fully understand some of them, they were beautifully arranged and perfect for taking photos! The highlight is the "Stained Glass Tower," which has a spiral staircase inside. When sunlight streams in, it looks stunning. 🎨 There’s also a Picasso Pavilion (included in the admission fee). It’s not very large but has air conditioning, making it a great place to cool off after exploring the outdoor exhibits. Inside, you can view paintings and ceramics. 👣 The visit is unhurried and stress-free. However, keep these tips in mind: • Wear hiking shoes or sneakers since there are slopes and grassy areas. • Some sculptures are not touchable, so pay attention to the signs. • Avoid visiting on rainy days as most of the exhibits are outdoors. ☕ The museum has a café and a souvenir shop, both reasonably priced. After your walk, you can relax with a drink. ⸻ 📝 My personal impression: Overall, the experience was quite relaxing. It wasn’t crowded, making it ideal for those who want a peaceful stroll. While it’s not a place that will leave you in awe, enjoying art amidst nature is truly delightful. ⸻ ⭐ Recommendation: 4/5 stars 📍 Address: Hakone Open-Air Museum (about a 3-minute walk from the station) 📸 Photo spots: Stained Glass Tower, giant sculptures, interactive grassy areas 🎒 Tips: • Visit on a sunny day for the best experience! • For great photos, go in the morning when the sunlight is better. • You don’t need to plan a whole day here, but two hours is just right for a leisurely visit.