■ Overview (history, characteristics, appeal)
The Azumino Chihiro Art Museum is a museum showcasing the work and spirit of picture book artist Chihiro Iwasaki (1918–1974), located in a tranquil setting surrounded by the natural beauty of Azumino. Iwasaki's soft, warm watercolors express a "child's perspective" and "gentleness," and have been highly praised both in Japan and abroad. Inside the museum, original paintings, sketches, art supplies, and documents are on display, allowing visitors to learn about the artist's creative process and life. The building and the surrounding Japanese garden blend seamlessly with the changing scenery of the seasons, making it a great place to not only view the artworks but also to enjoy a stroll or a quiet moment.
■Highlights
- Chihiro Iwasaki's representative original paintings: You can see her delicate watercolor paintings of children and flowers up close. The attraction is that you can feel the colors, brushstrokes, and even the texture of the paper.
- Permanent and special exhibitions: In addition to the permanent exhibition tracing Chihiro's career, special exhibitions introducing picture book authors from Japan and abroad are held regularly.
- Sketches, preliminary drawings, and document displays: There are plenty of exhibits that allow you to learn about the process of creating the works, as well as the artist's life and thoughts.
- Gardens and walking paths: The gardens surrounding the museum change appearance with the seasons and are popular spots for strolling and taking photos after viewing the exhibits.
– Children's programs and workshops: There may be events that parents and children can enjoy together, such as picture books, workshops, and story time (please check to see if they are being held).
– Museum shop and cafe: There is a shop selling picture books, postcards, and original goods, and a cafe serving light meals and coffee, making it a convenient place to buy souvenirs or take a break.
■Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Oito Line, Hotaka Station.
- Transportation from the station: Take a bus or taxi from Hotaka Station. Bus routes and schedules vary, so please check in advance. By taxi, the journey takes approximately 10 to 20 minutes (depending on traffic conditions). By foot, it takes around 40 minutes depending on the distance, so please choose the route based on your luggage and the weather.
- Access by car: Access via national and prefectural roads from the Nagano Expressway, Azumino IC, etc. Parking is available on the premises (please check the number of spaces and fees).
- From the city: Take the train from Matsumoto Station to Hotaka Station in about 20 minutes. From Tokyo, the most common route is to take the limited express train (Azusa, etc.) bound for Shinjuku or Matsumoto, then transfer at Matsumoto. Travel times vary depending on the route, so please check the timetable and connections before setting off.
(*Business hours, closing days, bus times, and parking information may change, so please check the official website for the latest information before visiting.)
■ Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Regular tour: 1 to 1.5 hours (to see the permanent exhibition and special exhibition)
- Relaxed viewing + cafe break: about 2 hours
– If you include participating in workshops and events and walking around the area: 2-3 hours or more
■ Nearby spots
– Daio Wasabi Farm: A representative tourist spot in Azumino. You can enjoy the scenery of waterwheels and spring water, as well as wasabi-related products.
– Hotaka Shrine: A shrine where you can experience the history and culture of the region. Perfect for worship and a stroll around the area.
- Rokuzan Museum of Art: A museum focusing on Western paintings and sculptures, convenient for exploring the art of the Azumino area.
- Azumino's mountains and observation spots: Enjoy beautiful views of the Northern Alps (including Mount Jonen) and seasonal scenery.
– Local cafes and soba restaurants: There are many establishments where you can eat and take a break while looking out at the clear stream and rural scenery.
■Points to note (crowds, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Manners in the exhibition room: As with many art museums, to protect the original artworks, photography (including flash and tripods) is prohibited in the exhibition room, and eating and drinking, and loud conversations are also prohibited. Do not touch the artworks.
- Crowds: Visitors tend to increase on weekends, Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn foliage season, etc. If you want to avoid crowds, we recommend visiting on weekday mornings.
- Check opening hours: Closing days (e.g. closed on Mondays), special exhibitions, admission fees, and whether or not workshops are being held are subject to change. Please check the official website or call in advance.
- Clothing and seasonal precautions: Azumino is at a high altitude, so it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings. It can get especially cold in spring and autumn, so be sure to bring a jacket. In winter, be aware that there may be snow and ice on the roads and in the parking lot.
- Facilities: It is recommended to check in advance whether strollers can be used, whether the facility is barrier-free, and whether there are nursing rooms and multi-purpose toilets.
- Transportation in the area: Roads in tourist areas tend to be congested, and there are times when public transportation is scarce. It is a good idea to check your return transportation options (such as the last bus).
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*Please check the official website for the latest opening hours, admission fees, and access information. Have a nice trip.
