Hakone Open-Air Museum
A breathtaking outdoor sculpture park where art meets nature, offering stunning views and a unique artistic journey.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Hakone Open-Air Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking outdoor sculpture park where art meets nature, offering stunning views and a unique artistic journey.
"Unironically the best museum I've ever been to, a must-see for art and nature lovers!"
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Prioritize comfort for exploring the expansive grounds.
Allow Ample Time :clock1:
Don't rush! Plan for at least 2-3 hours to truly appreciate the art and the stunning natural surroundings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Symphonic Sculpture
Main Plaza
A towering, colorful stained-glass structure offering panoramic views and a unique artistic experience.
Picasso Pavilion
Indoor Exhibit
Discover a collection of works by the legendary artist Pablo Picasso, a surprising gem within the museum.
Outdoor Sculptures & Nature
Throughout the grounds
Wander through lush landscapes dotted with impressive sculptures, blending art with the natural beauty of Hakone.
Foot Bath with a View
Near the main entrance
Relax your feet in a natural hot spring while taking in the stunning mountain vistas surrounding the museum.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors, Artfully
Getting There & Passes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Prioritize comfort for exploring the expansive grounds.
Allow Ample Time :clock1:
Don't rush! Plan for at least 2-3 hours to truly appreciate the art and the stunning natural surroundings.
Check the Weather :sun_with_face:
A clear day offers the best chance to see Mt. Fuji and enjoy the open-air exhibits.
Consider the Hakone Free Pass :ticket:
This pass covers most transportation in Hakone, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain. Prioritize comfort for exploring the expansive grounds.
Allow Ample Time :clock1:
Don't rush! Plan for at least 2-3 hours to truly appreciate the art and the stunning natural surroundings.
Check the Weather :sun_with_face:
A clear day offers the best chance to see Mt. Fuji and enjoy the open-air exhibits.
Consider the Hakone Free Pass :ticket:
This pass covers most transportation in Hakone, making it a convenient and cost-effective option.
Foot Soak Bliss :onsen:
Take advantage of the natural hot spring foot bath for a relaxing break with a view.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hakone Open-Air Museum for its unique blend of art and nature, calling it a 'must-do' and one of the best museums they've visited. The expansive outdoor sculpture park, the vibrant stained-glass tower, and the relaxing foot bath are frequently highlighted as favorite features. Some note that it can be a bit of a trek to get to, and that the experience is best enjoyed on a clear day.
"One of the most incredible museums I’ve ever visited! The installations are so huge and fun to walk through. Even on a cold rainy and snowy day we walked the entire grounds and saw each exhibit. There’s a sweet hot foot soak area about mid way through where there is also a gift shop and little cafe. Don’t miss going inside the tower with all the stained glass, it’s other worldly."
Lauren Koff
"With how glowing the reviews for this place were, I was expecting to be wowed. Amused even.
I was honestly just bored.
The area is beautiful and there's some nice photo opportunities, but the art itself was mediocre. And sparse.
If you're not into modern art, this museum is not for you."
Andres Sepulveda
"Loved the concept of an outdoor museum, very nice to stroll around the big park going up and down especially in good weather. Many random sculptures and structures here and there (so-so), Picasso exhibition at the middle was amazing (lots of exhibition), the spiral staircase with coloured glass and very nice views from the top. Also, super interesting kids playground with lots of begs and colorful balls. 10/10 recommend this place."
Serene Lim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Tokyo, take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto station. From there, you can take a bus (e.g., Hakone Tozan Bus) directly to the museum. Alternatively, you can take the Shinkansen to Odawara and then transfer to local transport.
Yes, the Hakone Free Pass is highly recommended as it covers most transportation in the Hakone area, including buses and trains that lead to the museum, making your journey seamless and cost-effective.
Absolutely! Hakone is a popular day trip destination from Tokyo, and the Open-Air Museum is one of its main attractions. You can comfortably visit it within a day. +1
From Odawara Station, you can take a bus towards Gora Station, which will stop near the Hakone Open-Air Museum. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes.
Yes, Hakone has an excellent public transport network including trains, buses, ropeways, and boats, all often covered by the Hakone Free Pass, making it easy to navigate between attractions like the Open-Air Museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but generally, adult admission is around ¥1,600. It's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing and any potential discounts.
While you can purchase tickets at the museum entrance, buying them in advance online or as part of a package might save time, especially during peak seasons.
The museum is typically open daily from around 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last admission usually an hour before closing. It's best to verify the exact hours on their official website before your visit.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or through specific passes like the Hakone Free Pass. Check the museum's official website or your pass details for eligibility.
While you can see the highlights in about 2 hours, to fully appreciate the art and the grounds, it's recommended to allocate at least 3 hours.
📸 📸 Photography & Art
Don't miss the iconic Symphonic Sculpture, the Picasso Pavilion, and the various large-scale outdoor sculptures scattered throughout the park. The stained-glass tower is also a visual treat.
Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor areas for personal use. However, there might be restrictions in specific indoor galleries, like the Picasso Pavilion, so always check for signage.
Yes, besides the extensive outdoor sculpture park, the museum features indoor spaces, including the Picasso Pavilion and other galleries showcasing various artworks.
The museum features a diverse collection of modern and contemporary sculptures from artists worldwide, with a strong emphasis on pieces that interact with the natural landscape. 
While not strictly interactive in a digital sense, many of the outdoor sculptures are designed to be experienced from different angles and perspectives, and the Symphonic Sculpture offers a unique visual and spatial experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum has a restaurant and a cafe where you can enjoy meals and refreshments. They offer a good selection of Japanese and Western dishes.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum grounds, especially in dining areas. It's best to consume your own food before entering or after leaving.
The restaurant typically offers a range of dishes, including Japanese curry, pasta, and other light meals, providing a convenient option for visitors during their stay.
While specific options can vary, it's always a good idea to inquire with the staff at the restaurant or cafe about vegetarian or vegan choices.
Yes, there is a cafe on-site where you can grab coffee, tea, and light snacks, perfect for a brief rest while exploring the museum.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Symphonic Sculpture is particularly captivating for younger visitors with its colorful stained glass, and the hot spring foot bath offers a fun and relaxing break. Consider bringing a stroller or carrier for very young children, as there is a lot of walking involved across varied terrain. 🎨 Art Lovers
The Picasso Pavilion is a significant draw, offering a chance to see works by the master up close. The outdoor setting allows for a unique appreciation of how art interacts with its environment, making it a truly inspiring experience. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
It's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, finding a quiet bench to enjoy the mountain breeze, or capturing stunning photographs. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Hakone's Transport Network
For those arriving via Shinkansen, Odawara Station is a key transfer point. From Odawara, local buses or the Hakone Tozan Railway can take you further into the mountains.
When planning your itinerary, consider that the Hakone Loop is a popular way to see multiple attractions in one day, often including the Open-Air Museum, Owakudani, and Lake Ashi.
The Art and Nature Fusion
+1 This outdoor setting allows for a dynamic appreciation of the artworks, as they change with the seasons and the light. Key highlights include the Symphonic Sculpture, a vibrant stained-glass tower that offers panoramic views, and the Picasso Pavilion, housing a collection of works by the legendary artist.
Visitors often rave about the sheer scale and diversity of the sculptures, from abstract forms to figurative pieces, all thoughtfully placed to complement the surrounding environment. Beyond the art, the museum offers moments of relaxation and connection with nature. The natural hot spring foot bath is a popular spot for visitors to rest their feet while enjoying the mountain air and scenery.
Many visitors find the museum to be a peaceful escape, a place where art and nature coexist harmoniously, making it a truly memorable experience even for those who don't consider themselves art enthusiasts. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit