MODERN ART, OUTDOORS
For most, “Hakone” conjures dreams of soaking in famous onsen (hot spring) waters or taking in idyllic views of Mount Fuji. The beautiful, Kanagawa Prefecture resort area, located only about 60 miles from Tokyo, is one of the most popular destinations for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city.
And while this area in the heart of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park may be known for its natural beauty, modern art is a growing part of Hakone’s allure. Hakone is home to extraordinary museums, and The Hakone Open-Air Museum is one of the most popular.
Courtesy of Olivia S.
Even though it was inaugurated over 50 years ago, Japan’s first open-air museum looks as fresh as ever, covering an area equal to 13 football fields, which, considering the well-known lack of space in Japan’s urban areas, is incredibly huge.
Courtesy of Olivia S.
Around 120 modern and contemporary art pieces make up the museum’s permanent outdoor exhibition that is wrapped in nature’s green embrace.
While many art pieces are abstract, some depict the human body, in its entirety or in parts, and serve as a visual reminder of human’s connection the environment.
Courtesy of Olivia S.
Courtesy of Olivia S.
Courtesy of Olivia S.
And on a day blessed with a bright blue sky, one feels like the art could take off and fly.
Courtesy of Olivia S.
There are several areas where children seem to absolutely have a blast, allowing their parents to take a break.
sunny-side-up eggs invite little visitors to lounge on top of the yolk;
a maze with adult-height walls summons laughter and frantic running;
hand-knitted nets to crawl in or jump on, bursting with colors, hidden in a wooden dome.
Courtesy of Olivia S.
Courtesy of Olivia S.
Two restaurants and a cafe offer space for recharging, but the museum also allows guests to bring in food and drinks from outside - and a konbini (Japanese convenience store) is perfectly located within walking distance!
Finding an open bench may take some time during the lunch hours, but satisfying your taste buds and stomach, while admiring sculptures and feeling the light breeze, is well-worth it a wait for a good spot.
Courtesy of Olivia S.
While most of the art is to be found outdoors, one can also visit six indoor pavilions. One such pavilion is focused on presenting Picasso’s lesser-known, but equally-enchanting pottery art work, along with quotes that offer glimpses into the Spanish artist’s creative philosophy.
Courtesy of Olivia S.
Another pavilion is a tower-like structure with a name that roughly translates as “A Symphony that Calls for Joy”. One has to step inside to understand why it was named so, and due to the long queue to enter, we almost gave up!
Beautifully-colored stained glass adorns most of the 60-feet tall building’s circular walls, and visitors can admire this beautiful spectacle of lights while climbing and descending a spiral staircase in the center of the tower. The amazing 360-degree view from its roof terrace is definitely making you forget the effort it may have taken to reach it!
Courtesy of Olivia S.
Courtesy of Olivia S.
GETTING THERE
Regardless of where in the Tokyo metropolis area you are located, it takes a combination of at least one train, one bus and some patience to reach this exceptional museum. I must confess I was a little baffled at the crowded, slow-moving mountain train that served as the last leg of the journey. Still, the beauty we encountered filled our hearts with joy, bidding us to visit again and add an overnight stay at an onsen ryokan (a Japanese-style hotel offering hot spring baths on its premises) to future plans — knowing this would allow us to queue and wait for a less-crowded train/bus to better enjoy the ride and admire the wonderful views.
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After walking through the sprawling Hakone Open Air Museum, the foot bath areas of this famed onsen-town provide a place to relax your tired feet in hot spring water. And if you happen to come unprepared to soak, vending machines offer small towels for around $1.
CLASSIC CARS, OUTDOORS
Courtesy of Olivia S.
Art of a more mobile form is also put on display outdoors through a classic car rally that follows a scenic route through Kanagawa Prefecture.
About 60 classic sports cars produced in Europe and the US between 1925 and 1973 participate in the 3-day event. Famous brands such as Bugatti, Bentley, Fiat, Mercedes Benz and Porsche, were joined by some historic brands like Austin Healey, MG and Triumph.
On the last day of the event, the classic beauties can be spotted crossing the bridge into and from Enoshima, in the City of Fujisawa.
TRAVELING TO JAPAN
June brings some positive news about entering Japan!
Starting on June 10th, tourists will once again be allowed to travel to Japan, after more than 2 years of strict border control. While trips need to be organized by an entity (tourism agency, etc.) and a visa is required, this is definitely an important step forward. For more information, please visit the official government page.