The Little Prince Museum (Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

The Little Prince Museum is a museum themed around the world of Saint-Exupéry's masterpiece, Le Petit Prince. Comprised of architecture and gardens reminiscent of a town in southern France, it features illustrations from the picture book, exhibits that allow visitors to experience the world of the story, a video corner, an outdoor rose garden, statues, and more. The space blends literature, art, and nature, making it an appealing place where people of all ages can immerse themselves in the story. The museum recreates the atmosphere of the original work in every detail, and there are also photogenic spots, a museum shop with commemorative goods, and a cafe.

Highlights

• Exhibition room recreating the story: An exhibition that traces the world of the story with motifs such as the prince, the pilot, and roses. It is characterized by a production that allows you to experience the atmosphere of the original work.
• Illustrations and Materials Corner: An exhibition introducing illustrations from picture books and related materials (the contents of the exhibits may change).
• Outdoor Rose Garden and Statue: Enjoy a stroll through the Prince's statue, rose garden, and European-style garden. Seasonal flowers are also a highlight.
• Cafe/Shop: A museum shop and cafe where you can purchase menu items and limited edition goods that incorporate motifs from the story.
• Photo spots: There are many photogenic spots both inside and outside the building, making them popular places for commemorative photos.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Public transportation: Take the Hakone Tozan Bus from Hakone-Yumoto or Odawara bound for Sengokuhara or Togendai, and get off at the bus stop in front of The Little Prince Museum or the nearest bus stop. Travel time varies depending on the route and departure point. Access from Odawara or Hakone-Yumoto is common.
• By car: From Odawara-Hakone, take National Route 1 or the prefectural road to the Sengokuhara area. There is a parking lot at the facility, so it is easy to visit by car, but the number of spaces is limited and it may be full during busy times.
• Note: Public transportation, parking, and bus schedules and routes may change depending on the season or events, so please check the official website or transportation site for the latest information before visiting.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

The estimated time to visit the museum, including viewing the exhibits and visiting the cafe and shop, is about 1 to 2 hours. If you plan to take photos or take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, you'll want to allow around 2 hours.

Nearby spots

• Hakone Gora Open-Air Museum: Popular with families thanks to its outdoor sculptures and spacious walking areas.
• Hakone Glass Forest Museum: A museum where you can enjoy Venetian glass exhibits and gardens (nearby, accessible by foot or car).
• Pola Museum of Art: A museum surrounded by nature, its collection and architecture are highlights.
• Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Field (Autumn Susuki): The autumn season is particularly beautiful, and many people visit this area along with the Little Prince Museum.
• Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine: If you go a little further, you can also visit the scenic spots around Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: The park is especially crowded on weekends, public holidays, Golden Week, summer vacation, and during the autumn foliage season. On days when crowds are expected, there may be restrictions on entry and you may have to wait for tickets, so please plan ahead and allow plenty of time.
• Museum etiquette: There are areas within the exhibition hall where photography and flash photography are prohibited. Please follow the rules, such as not touching the exhibits and eating and drinking only in designated areas.
• Outdoor clothing: Hakone is located in the mountains, so the weather can change quickly and it can get cold depending on the season. If you plan to walk outdoors, please bring a jacket and comfortable walking shoes.
• Pets and other items allowed inside: Each facility has its own regulations regarding the handling of pets, large luggage, and strollers. It is best to check the official information in advance.
• Tickets and Opening Hours: Admission fees, opening hours, and closing days may change. Please check the official website in advance for the latest information, event information, and group visit information.

(Reference) For detailed information on opening hours, admission fees, event information, and the latest access information, please check the official website of The Little Prince Museum.