Hokusai Museum (Obuse Town, Nagano Prefecture)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Hokusai Museum is an art museum that preserves and exhibits materials and works related to the Edo period ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai. Hokusai visited and stayed in Obuse in his later years, which led to the entire town cherishing Hokusai's footsteps. In addition to authentic materials such as original drawings, prints, sketches, and surimono (prints), the museum also features permanent and special exhibitions showcasing works and related materials that Hokusai created in Obuse.
Its distinctive feature is that it places emphasis on a clear connection with Obuse, allowing visitors to experience Hokusai's artistic world alongside the town's scenery and culture. Care is taken to preserve and display the original drawings, and the exhibits are changed regularly, so no matter how many times you visit, you'll always discover something new.
Highlights
- Hokusai's prints and original paintings collection: In addition to his masterpieces, rare materials such as works and sketches from his time in Obuse are also on display (these may be exhibited for special exhibitions).
- Materials related to Obuse: Exhibits on local people who had connections with Hokusai and the deeds he left behind.
- A combination of permanent and temporary exhibitions: learn the basics in the permanent exhibitions and delve deeper into specific themes in the temporary exhibitions.
- Museum Shop: Hokusai-related print replicas, catalogs, and local souvenirs are available.
- Linking with strolls around the surrounding area: Around the museum, there are temples and shrines associated with Hokusai, old townscapes, and Japanese confectionery shops, so you can enjoy strolling around town while appreciating the art.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Nagano Electric Railway, Obuse Station (Nagano Electric Railway departs and arrives from Nagano Station).
- Directions by train (approximate):
- From Tokyo: Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano Station (approximately 1-1.5 hours), then transfer to the Nagano Electric Railway to Obuse Station (approximately 20-30 minutes).
- Directly from Nagano Station: Take the Nagano Electric Railway to Obuse Station (approximately 20-30 minutes).
- Travel time from the station: It is approximately a 10-minute walk from Obuse Station to the Hokusai Museum (approximately).
- Access by car: Approximately 20-40 minutes on public roads from Nagano Station (depending on traffic conditions). The town is easy to get around on foot, and it's convenient to use the parking lot in the center to stroll around.
- Note: Public transport may be less frequent depending on the season and time of day, so please check the timetable in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Museum only: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour (depending on the exhibits and your pace).
- Combine it with a stroll around town: If you plan to visit the Hokusai Museum, nearby temples, shrines, and Japanese confectionery shops, we recommend allowing about 2-3 hours.
Nearby spots
- Iwashoin Temple: A temple known for its ceiling paintings by Hokusai. A must-visit place along with the Hokusai Museum.
- Takai Kozan Memorial Museum: A museum related to Takai Kozan, who had a relationship with Hokusai.
- Japanese sweets shops such as Obusedo and Sakurai Kanseido offer specialty sweets and cafe menus made with chestnuts. Their autumn chestnut sweets are especially famous.
- Obuse's townscape (Hokusai Street, etc.) is perfect for a stroll, as it is dotted with old merchant houses and art museums.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Tourists increase in autumn (autumn leaves and chestnut season), long weekends, and on weekends and public holidays. If you want to avoid the crowds, weekday mornings are relatively quiet.
- Photography: Photography and flash photography are often prohibited inside exhibition rooms. Please follow the instructions on the entrance signs and information boards inside the museum.
- Manners inside the museum: Preserving the exhibits is important, so please observe basic museum etiquette, such as not touching, running, or eating or drinking.
- Clothing and walking comfort: As walking around Obuse involves cobblestone streets and narrow alleys, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes.
- Opening hours and closing days: The museum may be closed or have its hours changed temporarily due to exhibit changes or special reorganization. Please check the official website or call the museum before visiting for the latest information.
- Seasonal notes: In winter, there is a possibility of snow accumulation and frozen roads, so please check transportation and road conditions. In summer, take measures against the heat by walking outdoors.
(Additional Information) For detailed information on opening hours, admission fees, special exhibitions, etc., please check the latest information on the Hokusai Museum's official website or the Obuse Tourism Association information page.
