Hayashibara Museum of Art

WannaGo

Favorite

A museum boasting a collection of swords and East Asian antiquities. Admire precious cultural assets such as the national treasure, the sword "Mei Yoshifusa," and the "Rakuchu Rakugai-zu" (depicting scenes of Kyoto) from the Ikeda family, the former feudal lords of Okayama.

Overview

The Hayashibara Museum of Art houses a collection of swords and East Asian antiquities amassed by entrepreneur Ichiro Hayashibara. Its sword collection is particularly impressive, featuring the national treasure "Tachi Mei Yoshifusa," along with numerous Important Cultural Properties, including tachi (long swords) and tanto (short swords). The museum also holds a significant number of historically valuable pieces, such as the "Rakuchu Rakugai-zu" (a painting depicting scenes of Kyoto) and Noh costumes, all heirlooms of the Ikeda family, the former feudal lords of Okayama. Designed by the renowned architect Kunio Maekawa, the museum building is a beautiful example of modern architecture harmoniously integrated with the landscape of Okayama Castle. A long gatehouse, once part of the second bailey of Okayama Castle, has been relocated to serve as the museum's entrance. Upon entering the gatehouse, the visitor is greeted by a modern glass building, creating a unique atmosphere that blends tradition and modernity. In addition to its permanent collection, the Hayashibara Museum of Art also hosts special exhibitions and events. These exhibitions showcase not only swords and East Asian antiquities but also contemporary art and photography. The Hayashibara Museum of Art is conveniently located near other sightseeing spots in Okayama City, including Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden. Be sure to visit when you're in Okayama.

National Treasure
Cultural Assets

Basic Information

Address: 2-7-15 Marunouchi, Kita-ku, Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture Search for tourist attractions in Okayama

Access: 25-minute walk from JR Okayama Station Okayama Electric Tramway bus, get off at Kencho-mae stop, 3-minute walk Okayama Electric Tramway, Takaya-bound from JR Okayama Station Uno Bus, get off at Kencho-mae stop, 3-minute walk From JR Okayama Station and Omachi Bus Center, take a bus bound for Seto-eki or Shinogoze Okayama Electric Tramway Higashiyama Line, get off at Kencho-dori stop, 7-minute walk Show route

Op.Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry 30 minutes before closing)

Cld.Days: Mondays (the following day if Monday is a public holiday), Year-end and New Year holidays, and during exhibition change periods

Fee: General: ¥350 (¥280), University Students: ¥250 (¥200), Junior High and High School Students: Free, 65 and over: ¥170 (¥140) * ( ) indicates group rates for 20 or more people * Free admission for holders of the Momokko Card (weekends and holidays only, for families with children under 18), holders of disability certificates (physical, intellectual, or mental), those with certificates proving they have a designated intractable disease and one caregiver, elementary and junior high school students from Okayama Prefecture accompanied by their teachers, and international students studying at schools in Okayama Prefecture for both Okayama art exhibitions and special exhibitions.

INFO: Wheelchairs and strollers are available. Please inquire at the reception. A multi-purpose restroom (wheelchair accessible, ostomy-friendly, and with diaper changing facilities) is also available. A nursing room (B1F) is available for your use.