Hakodate Museum of Art Hokkaido
Discover calligraphy and local Hokkaido art, with unique exhibitions focusing on diverse artistic voices.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Hakodate Museum of Art Hokkaido
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover calligraphy and local Hokkaido art, with unique exhibitions focusing on diverse artistic voices.
"Affordable entry to unique art, with friendly staff making it a memorable visit. "
Combine with Goryokaku
Visit Goryokaku Fort nearby for cherry blossoms in spring! :cherry_blossom:
Unique Art Perspective
Appreciate art from a unique angle, featuring artists with disabilities. :art:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Calligraphy Collection
Explore over 2,000 pieces showcasing the art of Japanese calligraphy. A cornerstone of the museum's permanent collection.
Local Hokkaido Artists
Discover the works of talented artists from Hokkaido, offering a glimpse into the region's creative spirit.
Kiyoshi Yamashita Exhibition
A must-see exhibition commemorating 'Japan's Van Gogh,' Kiyoshi Yamashita.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Art & Cherry Blossoms
Focus on Local & Unique Art
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine with Goryokaku
Visit Goryokaku Fort nearby for cherry blossoms in spring! :cherry_blossom:
Unique Art Perspective
Appreciate art from a unique angle, featuring artists with disabilities. :art:
Affordable Entry
The permanent exhibition is very affordable at 260 yen. :yen:
Friendly Staff
Volunteer staff, especially in the coffee shop, are wonderful and engaging. :heart:
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Goryokaku
Visit Goryokaku Fort nearby for cherry blossoms in spring! :cherry_blossom:
Unique Art Perspective
Appreciate art from a unique angle, featuring artists with disabilities. :art:
Affordable Entry
The permanent exhibition is very affordable at 260 yen. :yen:
Friendly Staff
Volunteer staff, especially in the coffee shop, are wonderful and engaging. :heart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviews for the Hakodate Museum of Art are mixed, with some visitors finding the permanent collection small or the artwork not to their taste. However, many appreciate the unique perspective offered by exhibitions featuring artists with disabilities and the affordability of the permanent exhibition. The friendly volunteer staff also contribute positively to the visitor experience.
"A small museum beside the goryokako tower.
The exhibitions at this time were from artists with disabilities or mental disorders.
It's an interesting angle to look at art. Maybe you have to be a little insane to create?"
HL Tan
"Total waste of time and money. The artwork was just plan terrible. There are soo many talented artists who could benefit from this building and they have this on display!!! Disappointed 😔"
Ivon Robson
"Great exhibition commemorating the birth of “Japan’s van Gogh” Kiyoshi Yamashita. Must see."
Faridah Stephens
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located beside Goryokaku Tower. It's easily accessible by public transport within Hakodate. Consider a day trip from other parts of Hokkaido, but plan your transport accordingly.
Information on specific parking availability is limited, but it's recommended to check local parking options near Goryokaku Park if you are driving.
While possible, a day trip from Sapporo to Hakodate is quite extensive. Many travelers opt for multi-day trips to explore Hakodate and its surroundings thoroughly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The permanent exhibition offers a very affordable entry fee of 260 yen. Special exhibitions may have different pricing.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official museum website or local listings before your visit.
For the permanent exhibition, advance booking is generally not required. However, for special exhibitions, it's advisable to check if pre-booking is recommended.
While specific discount information isn't widely publicized, the permanent exhibition is already very budget-friendly. Inquire at the ticket counter for any potential group or student rates.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
The museum features a collection of over 2,000 pieces, primarily focusing on calligraphy and works by local Hokkaido artists. It also hosts exhibitions highlighting artists with disabilities or mental disorders, offering a unique perspective.
While the art might appeal to older children interested in culture, it's primarily geared towards adults. The unique themes might spark curiosity in some younger visitors.
Yes, there is a coffee shop within the museum, and the volunteer staff there are noted for their friendly and engaging interactions.
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. It's best to look for signage within the museum or ask staff if photography is permitted in specific galleries.
A visit to the permanent exhibition is relatively short due to its size, but special exhibitions might require more time. Allow at least 1-2 hours for a comprehensive visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The museum itself, with its architectural elements, can be photogenic. If special exhibitions feature visually striking pieces, those would be prime spots. Always check photography rules.
General museum policies usually apply. Avoid flash photography and be mindful of other visitors. Specific exhibition rules will be posted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Art Collections
+1A particularly noteworthy aspect of the museum's programming is its dedication to exhibiting works by artists with disabilities or mental disorders. This approach offers a powerful and often moving perspective on creativity, challenging conventional notions of art and its creators. Exhibitions like the one commemorating Kiyoshi Yamashita, often referred to as 'Japan's Van Gogh,' further enrich the visitor experience with compelling narratives and artistic depth.
While the permanent collection is described as small by some, its affordability at 260 yen makes it an accessible cultural experience. The museum's unique curatorial choices, focusing on less conventional but deeply meaningful art forms, ensure a visit that is both educational and thought-provoking.
Visitor Experience and Community Insights
The volunteer staff, particularly those in the coffee shop, receive consistent praise for their warmth and friendliness. Despite potential language barriers, visitors report enjoyable interactions and a welcoming atmosphere, adding a personal touch to the museum visit. This community-driven aspect of the museum experience is a significant draw for many.
For those planning a visit, combining the museum with nearby attractions like Goryokaku Fort is a popular strategy, especially during cherry blossom season. This allows for a fuller exploration of Hakodate's cultural and natural beauty, making for a well-rounded day trip.
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