Audio Guide of the Hakone Open-Air Museum

The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last admission at 4:30 PM. The most direct way is to take the Hakone Tozan Railway to Chokoku-no-Mori Station; the museum is just a 2-minute walk from the station.

General adult admission is 1,600 JPY online and 2,000 JPY at the ticket counter. I recommend buying in advance on the official website to get the discount and avoid unnecessary lines.

To enjoy the outdoor sculptures and the Picasso collection without rushing, allow between 2 and 3 hours. The grounds cover 70,000 square meters, so it is worth taking your time.

Opened in 1969, it was Japan’s first open-air art museum, blending the natural setting of the national park with more than 120 masterpieces by artists such as Rodin, Miró, and Moore. Its Picasso Pavilion houses one of the most complete collections in the world.

Autumn (November) and spring (April) are spectacular thanks to the foliage colors and cherry blossoms framing the sculptures. To avoid crowds and get the best photos, try to arrive right at opening time at 9:00 AM.

Yes, much of the route is accessible via ramps and elevators, and they offer free wheelchair loans at the entrance. Keep in mind that, because it is on a mountain, some outdoor sections have steep slopes.

You are very close to Gora Station and the Hakone Ropeway for views of Mount Fuji. You can also visit the fun hot spring water park Hakone Kowakien Yunessun, which is just a few minutes away by bus.

Do not forget to bring a small hand towel. The museum has a free hot spring foot bath (Ashiyu) that is perfect for resting your legs while enjoying the outdoor art.