Asakura Museum of Sculpture

Overview

The Asakura Museum of Sculpture is a museum remodeled from the studio and residence where sculptor Fumio Asakura spent his later years. Asakura was one of the leading figures in modern Japanese sculpture, leaving behind numerous works. His masterpieces include "Tomb Keeper," "Female Figure," and "Cat." The museum not only displays these works but also Asakura's personal belongings and collection, offering a glimpse into his art and life. The building, designed by Asakura himself, boasts a unique design blending Western and Japanese architectural styles. Comprising a three-story above-ground and two-story underground atelier building and a two-story residential building, constructed from reinforced concrete, the total floor area is approximately 1085 square meters. The residential building, built in the Sukiya-zukuri style, is based on the motifs of round logs and bamboo. This unique blend of Western and Japanese styles reflects Asakura's personal design and strong preferences. He expanded and remodeled the building at least eight times. In his essay, "Gaya Gaya Monogatari" (My Home, Our Home, Stories of Things), he describes the joy of designing his own home. This essay is published and sold at the museum, together with a photo collection. The courtyard features a meticulously crafted Japanese garden, offering beautiful seasonal scenery. The garden centers around the "Goden no Ike" (Pond of Five Virtues), and the rooftop garden features a large olive tree. The pond utilizes Yanaka's natural spring water. A tree that always blooms white flowers is planted, and five large stones embodying the Confucian Five Constant Virtues (benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and fidelity) are uniquely arranged. The rooftop garden, considered one of Japan's first examples of green roofing, embodies Asakura's philosophy of viewing nature as fundamental to art. Radishes, tomatoes, and oriental orchids were once cultivated here; it is now a flower garden. The Asakura Museum of Sculpture is a museum that can be enjoyed from various perspectives, including sculpture, architecture, and gardens. Please visit and experience the world of Fumio Asakura.