Narukawa Art Museum
Art museum with stunning views of Lake Ashi & Mt. Fuji, featuring Nihonga paintings and a unique kaleidoscope collection.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for Fuji-san views
Narukawa Art Museum
Best Time
Best chance for Fuji-san views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Art museum with stunning views of Lake Ashi & Mt. Fuji, featuring Nihonga paintings and a unique kaleidoscope collection.
"Not sure which is prettier, the art or this view!"
🎯 Cafe with a View
Pay the entrance fee for the cafe; the views are worth it! Enjoy coffee with Mt. Fuji as your backdrop.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The panoramic windows offer incredible photo opportunities. Visit on a clear day for the best Mt. Fuji shots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Lounge View
Cafe Terrace
Breathtaking views of Lake Ashi, Mt. Fuji, and Hakone Shrine's torii gate. A photographer's dream!
Nihonga Art Collection
Exhibition Halls
Discover exquisite modern and contemporary Japanese paintings, showcasing traditional techniques and local talent.
Kaleidoscope Collection
Exhibition Halls
A surprising and delightful display of intricate kaleidoscopes, often a hit with all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Views
Art & Scenery Blend
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Cafe with a View
Pay the entrance fee for the cafe; the views are worth it! Enjoy coffee with Mt. Fuji as your backdrop.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The panoramic windows offer incredible photo opportunities. Visit on a clear day for the best Mt. Fuji shots. 
✨ Don't Miss Kaleidoscopes
The museum has a unique collection of kaleidoscopes that are surprisingly captivating.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking around the museum and its terraces.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Cafe with a View
Pay the entrance fee for the cafe; the views are worth it! Enjoy coffee with Mt. Fuji as your backdrop.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The panoramic windows offer incredible photo opportunities. Visit on a clear day for the best Mt. Fuji shots.
✨ Don't Miss Kaleidoscopes
The museum has a unique collection of kaleidoscopes that are surprisingly captivating.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking around the museum and its terraces.
⏰ Arrive Early
To beat the crowds and secure a good spot at the cafe, aim to arrive near opening time.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Narukawa Art Museum for its absolutely breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji, often calling the scenery the main attraction. The art collection, particularly Nihonga paintings and a unique kaleidoscope display, is appreciated for its quality and charm, though some note the museum is small. The cafe with its stunning vista is a highlight for many.
"This place has the best views. You need to pay the entrance fee for the cafe but definitely worth it. The museum istels is small but has some amazing pieces. The glass pieces were a nice surprise and fantastic, I wish they had more. People saying it is not impressive clearly have no appreciation for actual art."
Guillermo
"Tiny, but pretty nice art museum. Beside paintins and scul[ture it has a collection of caleidoscopes, which very attractive for childrens.
Whole family can enjoy beautiful cafe-terrace with view to Ashi lwake. And if you are lucky enough - you can see Fuji-san :)
Lower terrace park is very compact but nice and decorated with sculptures."
Andre Klimov
"I believe most tourists visit this place for the stunning window view of Mt. Fuji, and it truly lives up to the hype. The view is absolutely breathtaking and an ideal spot for capturing beautiful photos.
The paintings on display are also impressive. I was delighted to find a collection of ink wash paintings, which I personally love. The local artists are incredibly talented, and their work adds a wonderful cultural touch to the experience."
Ian Li
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Tokyo, take the Odakyu Romancecar to Hakone-Yumoto Station, then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Bus towards Moto-Hakone or Hakone-machi. The museum is a short walk from the bus stop.
Yes, it's easily accessible by bus. The Hakone Tozan Bus stops near the museum, making it convenient for visitors exploring the area.
If you're in other parts of Hakone, use the Hakone Tozan Bus network. Look for routes that go towards Lake Ashi and stop at the Narukawa Art Museum.
Yes, driving is an option, and there is parking available. However, navigating Hakone's roads can be challenging, and public transport is often recommended.
Absolutely! The museum is close to Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, and the Hakone Open-Air Museum, making it easy to create a full day of exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee is typically around JPY 1300. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, you need to pay the entrance fee to access the cafe and its stunning views. Many visitors find it well worth the cost.
Information on discounts is not widely available, but it's always a good idea to inquire at the ticket counter or check their official website for any special offers.
The museum is generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's recommended to confirm hours before your visit, as they can vary seasonally.
While online ticket purchasing options are not always highlighted, it's best to check the museum's official website or inquire directly for the most up-to-date information on booking.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but it's always best to look for specific signage indicating restrictions, especially for certain artworks.
The panoramic lounge with its views of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji is the prime photography spot. The terraces with sculptures also offer great shots.
Yes, on clear days, Mt. Fuji is visible from the museum's viewing areas, offering spectacular photo opportunities.
Try to visit during the 'golden hour' for softer light, and be mindful of other visitors when capturing the views. Early morning or late afternoon can be ideal.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the views. If you're interested in art details, a lens with good zoom capabilities can be helpful.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The museum primarily features modern and contemporary Nihonga (Japanese-style paintings), alongside a unique collection of kaleidoscopes and sculptures.
Yes, the kaleidoscope collection is particularly engaging for children, and the beautiful views from the cafe terrace can be enjoyed by the whole family.
A typical visit can take 1-2 hours, depending on your interest in the art and how long you wish to spend enjoying the views from the cafe.
Information on guided tours is not widely advertised. It's best to check the museum's official website or inquire upon arrival for any available options.
The museum offers a cafe with panoramic views, restrooms, and gift shop. The surrounding terraces also provide pleasant spaces to relax.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located on the upper terrace that offers refreshments and stunning views of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji.
The cafe typically serves light meals, snacks, and beverages. It's a great place to relax and soak in the scenery.
Yes, the area around Lake Ashi offers various restaurants and eateries, from casual cafes to more traditional Japanese dining.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the museum or its cafe. It's best to consume your own food in designated public areas outside the museum.
Prices at the cafe are typical for tourist attractions in Japan, so expect them to be slightly higher than average.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2 The museum's architecture and the surrounding terraces also offer interesting compositions. Visiting during the 'golden hour' can yield particularly dramatic and beautiful images. Remember to check for any restrictions on tripod use if you plan on more professional shoots. 🎨 Art Lovers
+1 While the collection is not vast, it offers a curated selection of high-quality works by local Japanese artists. The unique addition of the kaleidoscope collection adds an unexpected artistic dimension. For those interested in Japanese art history and aesthetics, Narukawa provides a focused and rewarding experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Nihonga
+1Visitors often express delight in the unique textures and the rich, often luminous, colors achieved through Nihonga techniques. The museum's intimate setting allows for a close appreciation of these artistic nuances. It's a chance to connect with a vital aspect of Japan's modern art history, offering a different perspective than the more widely known ukiyo-e prints.
Beyond Nihonga, the museum also surprises visitors with its collection of kaleidoscopes. This unexpected addition provides a playful and visually stimulating experience, often a favorite for families. The intricate patterns and shifting colors offer a unique artistic dimension that complements the paintings, making the museum a multifaceted cultural destination.
Capturing the Iconic Views
+2Many visitors recommend visiting on a clear day to maximize the chances of seeing Mount Fuji. The best times for photography are often during the 'golden hour' – early morning or late afternoon – when the light is soft and atmospheric. The iconic floating torii gate of Hakone Shrine is also visible from the museum, adding another layer of visual interest to the already stunning panorama.
+2Beyond the main lounge, the museum's terraces also offer beautiful vantage points. These areas are often decorated with sculptures and provide a more relaxed setting to enjoy the surroundings. Whether you're an avid photographer or simply want to capture a memorable moment, the views from Narukawa Art Museum are sure to impress.
+1A Complementary Hakone Experience
However, Narukawa Art Museum excels in its unique blend of intimate art appreciation and spectacular natural views. It's an ideal stop for those who appreciate modern Japanese art and want to enjoy a tranquil moment with iconic scenery. The museum's location near Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine makes it a convenient addition to a broader Hakone itinerary, allowing visitors to experience multiple facets of the region in a single day.
+2Consider Narukawa Art Museum as a perfect complement to other Hakone attractions. Its charm lies in its focused collection and its unparalleled views, offering a peaceful and visually rewarding experience that stands out for its specific appeal.
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