Yamato Bunkakan Museum

Overview

The Yamato Bunkakan Museum, operated by the Kintetsu Group, houses a remarkable collection of East Asian art, with a focus on calligraphy, paintings, ceramics, lacquerware, and metalwork. Designed by the renowned architect, Yoshida Goso, the museum's interior evokes the architectural style of the Momoyama period. Heavy timber frames support the hallways, leading visitors to exhibition halls bathed in the soft light filtering through paper shoji screens. A central courtyard, designed like a small Japanese garden (tsubo-niwa), features bamboo, creating a serene environment for appreciating the artwork. This 'Bamboo Garden' enhances the natural setting for viewing the art. From the terrace, you can enjoy stunning views of Koenyama mountain, accompanied by the sounds of birds chirping and the gentle rustling of leaves. When you need a break from art appreciation, the refreshing green bamboo and the seasonal flowers of Bunkaen Garden offer a respite for your eyes, allowing you to breathe fresh air before returning to the galleries to fully immerse yourself in the artwork. This unique integration of nature and art is a hallmark of the Yamato Bunkakan Museum. Here, you'll discover a new facet of East Asian art, harmoniously blending with the colors and sounds of nature. A section of the Nara Hotel lounge (built in 1909), designed by Tatsuno Kingo, has also been relocated to the grounds and named the Bunka Hall.