Hikari Museum: A Unique Space Blending Art and History

One of the World’s Finest Art Collections

The museum’s art gallery boasts a collection of approximately 2,000 works, including the National Treasure “Tachi signed by Yasutsugu,” the Important Cultural Property “Tachi signed by Ryōkai,” and the Important Art Object “Sarumaru-shū Fragment (attributed to Fujiwara no Yukinari),” as well as an imperial letter written by Emperor Go-Yōzei.

Western art includes masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, Corot, and Picasso. The modern Japanese painting collection features celebrated artists such as Yokoyama Taikan, Takeuchi Seihō, Hishida Shunsō, Kawai Gyokudō, Uemura Shōen, Kaburaki Kiyokata, Higashiyama Kaii, and Kayama Matazō.

The ukiyo-e collection includes Katsushika Hokusai’s “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji,” Utagawa Hiroshige’s complete series “Fifty-Three Stations of the Tōkaidō” and “One Hundred Famous Views of Edo,” with around 220 woodblock prints and 420 hand-painted works—making it one of the largest collections in the world.

Visitors can also enjoy seasonal displays of ink calligraphy including letters by Fujiwara no Teika and Sen no Rikyū, as well as works of contemporary calligraphy.

In the adjacent “Ukei Memorial Room,” visitors can explore the writings of Ukei Tejima, considered one of the “Three Great Calligraphers of the Shōwa Era.” His signature piece, “Collapse,” exemplifies his revolutionary style known as “zōsho,” where the form of the script reflects the content of the writing. His work, born of a lifetime of pursuit, is held in high regard internationally.

Museum Zone: A Hands-On Journey Through Human History

The History of Humanity Gallery showcases how ancient civilizations expressed spiritual reverence through artifacts. With relics from around the world and Japan’s Paleolithic and Jōmon periods, visitors can experience the enduring flow of cultural and spiritual development through time.

The Hida Gallery focuses on the region’s rich geological history. Dioramas and fossil displays explain how various lifeforms contributed to Earth’s development. The Hida area, with strata from the Paleozoic to the Cenozoic eras, tells the story of the formation of the Japanese archipelago. More than 10,000 items, including ammonite fossils, rocks, meteorites, and minerals, are curated for display.

Outside the exhibit halls, life-sized dinosaur models captivate visitors. On weekends and holidays, the museum offers hands-on workshops like making fossil replica keychains, magatama bead straps, and traditional Japanese multicolor woodblock prints.

During summer vacation and Obon, limited-time events are held, making it a great seasonal destination for families with children.

Another popular attraction is the museum’s riddle-solving program, where guests explore the facility while decoding clues. Many participants report being completely absorbed in the experience. With something for everyone, both kids and adults can create unforgettable memories together.

Exclusive Gifts and Creative Souvenirs

The museum shop offers a wide selection of original goods, allowing visitors to take home a piece of the exhibition experience.

In addition to catalogs and books related to the exhibits, the shop features exclusive items such as original postcards, stationery, accessories, and playful goods inspired by ancient artifacts and traditional Japanese art.

Local specialties from the Hida-Takayama area are also available, making for excellent gifts.

With a carefully curated selection designed to rekindle your appreciation for the artworks you’ve seen, the shop is sure to satisfy art lovers looking for that perfect keepsake.

Enjoy Stunning Views and Delicious Cuisine at the Museum Café

“Viracocha,” the museum’s in-house restaurant, is known for its tranquil atmosphere and simple charm. The restaurant offers a panoramic view of the Norikura mountain range through large windows, allowing guests to enjoy the beauty of each season.

The menu features a variety of lunch dishes, desserts, and drinks made with locally sourced ingredients. Seasonal parfaits and handmade chiffon cakes are especially popular. With affordable prices, the café is a favorite among locals as a relaxing retreat.

Whether you’re pausing for a break between exhibitions or looking to savor a quiet moment, this restaurant provides a peaceful space where both your heart and appetite can be fully satisfied.