What is the Adachi Museum of Art?
Adachi Museum of Art is located in Yasugi City, Shimane Prefecture, and is a museum where you can enjoy beautiful Japanese gardens and masterpieces of nihonga (Japanese-style painting).
Founded in 1970 by businessman Zenko Adachi, the museum was created under the philosophy that “the garden is also a painting,” offering a space where gardens and art harmonize.
Its garden is especially famous for being chosen as “Japan’s best garden” for 22 consecutive years by the American journal Journal of Japanese Gardening (as of 2024).
Its beauty attracts attention from around the world, drawing many visitors.
The museum houses masterpieces of modern nihonga including works by Yokoyama Taikan, as well as ceramics and contemporary art, offering a wide-ranging collection.
It is one of Japan’s leading cultural facilities where you can experience the “fusion of art and nature.”
Highlights of the Adachi Museum of Art
1. The world’s top Japanese garden
The museum’s greatest attraction is its exquisitely beautiful Japanese garden.
The gardens are designed to be viewed from inside the museum, giving visitors the feeling of being inside a painting.
- Karesansui (dry landscape) Garden: A serene beauty that expresses natural scenery using sand and stones.
- White Sand and Green Pines Garden: The harmony of white sand and green pines recreates Yokoyama Taikan’s famous work “Hakusa Seisho.”
- Pond Garden: A refreshing garden where a beautiful pond blends with seasonal nature.
- Moss Garden: A soothing space covered in lush moss that evokes a traditional Japanese atmosphere.
2. Collection of Yokoyama Taikan masterpieces
The Adachi Museum of Art holds many works by the modern nihonga master Yokoyama Taikan.
Representative works such as “Nachi Falls” and “Autumn Leaves” are displayed, allowing visitors to feel the depth of Japanese art.
Works depicting seasonal landscapes, in particular, resonate with the garden and leave a strong impression on visitors.
3. Modern nihonga and ceramic works
The museum not only displays works by Yokoyama Taikan but also features modern and contemporary nihonga and ceramic works by artists such as Kitaoji Rosanjin.
The exhibitions, which blend tradition and innovation, convey the profound nature of Japanese culture.
4. Gardens that change with the seasons
One of the features of the Adachi Museum’s gardens is how their appearance changes through the four seasons.
- Spring: Cherry blossoms bloom and the gardens are brightly colored.
- Summer: Lush green foliage spreads, giving a cool, refreshing impression.
- Autumn: Autumn leaves paint the gardens in vivid reds and yellows.
- Winter: Snow-covered gardens create a tranquil, almost magical atmosphere.
5. “Living framed picture” windows
Inside the museum you can view the garden through windows framed like picture frames, known as “living framed pictures.”
Looking out from inside the building, the garden appears like a single painting, and these views are popular photo spots.
What to enjoy by season
- Spring: Cherry blossoms and fresh greenery brighten the gardens.
- Summer: The lush green foliage is refreshing and cooling.
- Autumn: Fall colors make the gardens a perfect spot for photography.
- Winter: Snow scenes create a dreamy landscape to enjoy.
Access information
Address
320 Furukawa-cho, Yasugi City, Shimane Prefecture
How to get there
- Train
- About 20 minutes by free shuttle bus from JR Yasugi Station.
- Car
- About 10 minutes from Yasugi IC on the San’in Expressway.
Parking
Free parking is available on the museum grounds.
Recommended ways to enjoy your visit
1. Take your time enjoying the Japanese gardens
Stroll through each garden at a relaxed pace and appreciate their beauty and detailed design.
The views from the “living framed pictures” are a must-see.
2. View Yokoyama Taikan’s works
Admire the masterpieces and feel the subtlety and power of nihonga.
3. Capture seasonal scenes
The Adachi Museum of Art is a place where the beauty of each season stands out.
Bring a camera and capture your best shots.
Practical information for travelers
What to bring and how to dress
- Camera: Essential for photographing the beautiful gardens.
- Comfortable shoes: Choose footwear suitable for walking around the extensive grounds.
Notes
- Photography etiquette: Photography of the indoor exhibits is prohibited. You may photograph the gardens, but please be considerate of other visitors.
- Suggested visit length: Allow 2–3 hours to fully appreciate the gardens and artworks.
Frequently asked questions
Q1. How much time do I need to visit the Adachi Museum of Art?
A. On average, 2–3 hours are recommended to leisurely view the gardens and artworks.
Q2. Are there English guides or information?
A. English pamphlets and explanations are available inside the museum.
Q3. Is there food or a café?
A. There is a café inside the museum where you can enjoy light meals and drinks while looking out at the garden.
Summary
The Adachi Museum of Art is truly an art paradise where the “world’s best Japanese garden” and masterpieces of nihonga come together.
Experience the beautiful seasonal landscapes and culture, and enjoy a restorative time for the heart.
Be sure to visit the Adachi Museum of Art in Shimane Prefecture to savor the essence of Japanese beauty!
