TOC
Lalique Museum Hakone (Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Hakone Lalique Museum is an art museum that primarily exhibits works by René Lalique, a glass artist who represents the French Art Nouveau/Art Deco period, and his workshop. Through a diverse collection of Lalique's perfume bottles, jewelry, glassware, lighting, and more, visitors can trace the history of decorative arts and glass expression. Located in the nature-rich Sengokuhara area of Hakone, the building, garden, and exhibition space are in harmony, making it an appealing place to enjoy both art appreciation and strolling. The museum also has a cafe and museum shop.
Highlights
- Rene Lalique's masterpieces: perfume bottles, glass vases, lampshades, jewelry, and more. See the delicate glasswork and decorative qualities of these objects in person.
- Exhibition structure: The collection is organized by era and purpose, and the evolution of Lalique's techniques and designs is clearly presented.
- Harmony between the exhibition space and nature: A beautiful combination of glass artworks, natural light, and the garden's waterscape. The views from the outdoor garden and terrace are also not to be missed.
- Special exhibitions: Special exhibitions and themed exhibitions are held regularly, allowing visitors to learn about related artists other than Lalique and the historical background.
- Cafe & Museum Shop: A cafe where you can take a break after viewing the exhibits, and a shop selling original goods and related books.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Hakone-Yumoto Station (Hakone Tozan Railway/Odakyu Line) or Odawara Station (JR). From either station, you can take a bus or mountain railway bound for Hakone.
- public transport:
- From Tokyo: Shinjuku → (Odakyu Romance Car) → Hakone-Yumoto. From Hakone-Yumoto, take the Hakone Tozan Bus bound for Sengokuhara and get off (approximately 25-40 minutes, travel time varies depending on the route).
- From Odawara: From Odawara Station, take the Hakone Tozan Bus or taxi towards Sengokuhara (approximately 30-50 minutes).
- car:
- Head towards Hakone via the Tomei Expressway and Odawara-Atsugi Road. Parking is often available in the Sengokuhara area, but due to limited space, you may need to use a nearby public parking lot when it is crowded.
- Other: Located on the route of the Hakone Sightseeing Bus (Hakone Tozan Bus, Izu Hakone Bus), it is easy to combine with sightseeing in Hakone.
- *Please be sure to check the official website or bus timetable in advance for the latest times, routes, stop names, and parking information.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Viewing only: Approximately 60 to 90 minutes
- Exhibition + cafe break + garden stroll: 90-150 minutes (1.5-2.5 hours)
- Day trips combining with nearby museums and sightseeing spots: Half-day to full-day courses are recommended
Nearby spots
- Hakone Open-Air Museum (full of outdoor sculptures and exhibits for children)
- Pola Museum of Art (Modern and contemporary art and architecture in harmony with nature)
- Sengokuhara Pampas Grass Field (famous for its autumn pampas grass and perfect for a stroll)
- Owakudani (Volcanic landscape. Please check access and volcanic activity information.)
- Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine (lakeside sightseeing and pleasure boats)
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It tends to get crowded on weekends, consecutive holidays, autumn foliage season, and spring tourist season, so please plan to go with plenty of time to spare or visit on a weekday.
- Tickets and opening hours: Hours and prices may change depending on the exhibit change, closing days, and special exhibition period. We recommend checking the opening hours, closing days, and admission fees on the official website in advance, and making reservations online if available.
- Photography: Whether photography is permitted inside the museum varies depending on the exhibit. Flash photography and the use of tripods are generally prohibited, so please follow the signs on site.
- Manners: Many of the exhibits are very delicate glass pieces, so please observe general museum etiquette, such as not touching the display cases, not running, and keeping your cell phones on silent mode.
- Barrier-free access: Most museums are barrier-free, but if you are using a wheelchair or require assistance, it is a good idea to contact the museum in advance.
- Weather and clothing: Hakone is at a high altitude, so the temperature varies greatly depending on the season. It can get particularly cold from autumn to winter, so be sure to bring warm clothing. Outdoor walking may be restricted on rainy days.
- Parking and traffic restrictions: Parking lots will be full and roads will be congested during the tourist season. If you are using a rental car or your own car, please allow yourself plenty of time to get there.
A final note: Exhibits, transportation, and opening hours are subject to change. Please check the Hakone Lalique Museum's official website for the latest information (opening hours, closing days, admission fees, special exhibitions, and access information) before your visit.
