Hakone Open Air Museum
As if the natural beauty of Hakone wasn’t inspiring enough.
Possibly one of the most beautiful settings for an art museum in the world, the Hakone Open Air Museum offers a glimpse into modern art like never before. The various works of art and sculptures that are dotted liberally across the grounds have the gorgeous mountains and Lake Ashinoko as their backdrop. Think you’ve seen those stone maiden in all their glory? Check back again in fall when they’re decorated with fallen orange and red leaves, winter when they shiver amongst the snow, or spring when their elegance is emphasised by the fragile cherry blossoms.
Although a little on the pricey side for museum tickets (1600 yen admission), there is definitely value for money here. If you’re travelling with kids, you can leave them to grapple with child-friendly art installations in a magical-looking playground while you explore the showroom dedicated to the life and works of Picasso.
If your New Year’s resolution was to get out and about by exercising more, the Open Air Museum will inspire you to get creative and more active. A stroll through the grounds, taking breaks to admire the installations that move in time with the wind or lovingly-crafted sculptures, some so realistic it’s like they could spring to life behind your back, will leave you more refreshed and energized than any gym session.
