Best Museums in Hakone
7 top museums — museums, art galleries, and cultural centers in Hakone, Japan.
Local tip: Buy the 2-day Hakone Free Pass (¥6,100 from Shinjuku) covering all transport including ropeway and pirate ship.
#1
The Hakone Open-Air Museum
1121 Ninotaira, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0493, Japan
#2
Hakone Venetian Glass Museum (Glass Forest)
The Hakone Venetian Glass Museum, also known as the Glass Forest Museum, is a stunning tribute to Italian glassmaking artistry set against the scenic backdrop of Hakone's mountains. The museum features an enchanting collection of authentic Venetian glass pieces from the 15th to 19th centuries, along with contemporary glass art installations. Visitors can stroll through European-style gardens adorned with sparkling glass sculptures and trees that shimmer in the sunlight, creating a magical, fairy-tale atmosphere.
#3
Pola Museum of Art
Nestled in the forests of Hakone, the Pola Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of European and Japanese art, including works by Monet, Renoir, Picasso, and renowned Japanese artists. The striking contemporary architecture features floor-to-ceiling windows that blend the museum seamlessly with the surrounding nature, creating a unique aesthetic experience. Visitors can also enjoy a scenic forest walking path that winds through the museum grounds, offering a perfect combination of art and nature.
#4
Hakone Sekisho
Hakone Sekisho is a meticulously reconstructed Edo-period checkpoint that once controlled traffic along the historic Tokaido road connecting Tokyo and Kyoto. Visitors can explore authentic guard houses, gates, and observation towers while learning about the strict travel regulations of feudal Japan, when samurai inspectors examined travelers' permits. The checkpoint's stunning location on the shores of Lake Ashi offers picturesque views of Mount Fuji on clear days, making it both a historical and scenic highlight of the Hakone region.
#5
Okada Museum of Art
The Okada Museum of Art in Hakone showcases an impressive collection of East Asian art spanning from ancient times to the modern era, with over 450 masterpieces including Japanese paintings, Chinese ceramics, and Korean Buddhist sculptures. The five-story museum building is itself a work of art, featuring a stunning 12-meter tall wind god and thunder god mural at its entrance. After exploring the galleries, visitors can relax in the traditional Japanese garden and enjoy matcha tea while admiring seasonal landscapes.
#6
Narukawa Art Museum
Perched on the mountainside of Hakone with breathtaking views of Lake Ashi and Mount Fuji, the Narukawa Art Museum houses one of Japan's finest collections of contemporary nihonga (Japanese-style paintings). The museum's floor-to-ceiling windows create a stunning panorama that rivals the artwork itself, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural appreciation. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere while exploring rotating exhibitions featuring works by renowned modern Japanese artists.
#7
Hakone Museum of Art
1300 Gōra, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0408, Japan
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best museums in Hakone?
Hakone has 7 notable museums worth visiting. Top picks include The Hakone Open-Air Museum, Hakone Venetian Glass Museum (Glass Forest), Pola Museum of Art.
Are museums in Hakone free to visit?
Some museums in Hakone are free to enter, while others charge a small admission fee. It is recommended to check each spot before visiting.
When is the best time to visit museums in Hakone?
The best time to visit Hakone is November (autumn foliage), June-July (hydrangeas along mountain railway), clear winter days for Mt. Fuji views. Visiting museums during this season offers the best experience.
Do I need a JR Pass to visit Hakone?
Hakone is served by Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND) — 2 hours by train via Shinjuku; Tokyo Narita Airport (NRT) — 2.5-3 hours. A JR Pass is recommended if you plan to visit multiple cities in Japan.