What is the Homma Museum of Art?
The Homma Museum of Art (Homma Bijutsukan) is an art museum in Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture where history and culture come together.
It exhibits the daimyo culture of the Shonai region that continued from the Edo period and the historical collections of the Homma family. Together with its beautiful garden, it is a worthwhile sightseeing spot.
This museum was established by the wealthy Homma family, once said to be among Japan’s largest landowners.
The Homma family built great wealth during the Edo period and are known for their contributions to the development of the Shonai region.
On the museum grounds you can also find the Homma family’s villa, Seienkaku, and the garden Kakubuen, where you can experience traditional Japanese beauty.
This article introduces the highlights of the Homma Museum of Art, how to enjoy it, and access information.
Highlights of the Homma Museum of Art
1. The Homma family’s historically valuable art collection
The Homma Museum displays a wide range of artworks including Japanese paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, arms and armor, and tea utensils.
The exhibits include valuable works from the Edo period through modern times, offering insight into the history of Japanese art.
There are many historical materials related to the Shonai Domain and the Homma family, so you can get a glimpse of the lives of samurai and merchants during the Edo period, which is especially appealing.
Special exhibitions are also held for limited periods, so there are often new discoveries each time you visit.
2. The atmospheric “Seienkaku” villa
On the museum grounds stands the Homma family’s villa, Seienkaku.
The fourth head of the Homma family, Mitsumichi Homma, built the Seienkaku at this location to serve as a rest house and reception hall for the domain lord.
It is a valuable building that preserves the atmosphere of an Edo-period samurai residence.
Seienkaku highlights
- Elegant shoin-style architecture (experience Edo-period Japanese architecture)
- History as a reception hall used for the domain lord
- Beautiful fusuma paintings and carved transoms (decorations showcasing craftsmen’s skills)
From inside Seienkaku you can overlook the garden Kakubuen and feel as if you have traveled back in time.
3. Kakubuen — seasonal beauty in every season
The museum’s garden, Kakubuen, is a place where you can fully enjoy the beauty of a Japanese garden.
It is said that the lord of the Shonai Domain named this place when he visited, and the tranquil pond and lush trees create a landscape that evokes traditional Japanese beauty.
Seasonal highlights
- Spring: Cherry blossoms bloom and the whole garden is enveloped in a festive atmosphere
- Summer: Lush green trees create a cool, refreshing scene
- Autumn: Beautiful autumn leaves offer a magical view
- Winter: The snow-covered garden conveys the charm of a Japanese winter
There are walking paths throughout the garden, so you can stroll at a relaxed pace and enjoy the scenery.
4. Limited-time special exhibitions and workshops
The Homma Museum hosts various special exhibitions and art events throughout the year.
Workshops on traditional crafts and exhibitions by local artists are also held, providing valuable opportunities to experience art firsthand.
Checking the official website for event information before your visit will help you have a richer experience.
Useful information for travelers
Access
By train and bus
- About a 5-minute walk from JR Sakata Station
- From in front of Sakata Station, take a local bus and get off at “Homma Museum-mae” (about 10 minutes)
By car
- About 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Yamagata City
- About 20 minutes by car from Shonai Airport
- Parking available (free)
Admission and opening hours
- Admission：
- Adults: ¥1,100
- High school & university students: ¥500
- Junior high school students and younger: Free
- Opening hours：
- 9:00–17:00 (last admission 16:30)
- ※Winter (November–March) closes at 16:30
Wi‑Fi
- Wi‑Fi availability should be confirmed in advance (available at the tourist information center)
Language support
- English and Chinese tourist pamphlets are available (obtainable at the Sakata Tourist Information Center)
- Some museum staff can provide basic English assistance
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
The Homma Museum of Art is a cultural spot worth visiting for anyone interested in Japanese history and art.
You can enjoy the Homma family’s art collection that dates back to the Edo period and the beautiful garden that changes with the seasons, experiencing both art and nature.
If you visit Yamagata and the Shonai region, be sure to stop by!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to see the museum?
A: You can take a thorough look in about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Q: What is the best season to visit?
A: Spring for cherry blossoms and autumn for foliage are especially recommended, but summer and winter each have their own charm.
Q: Are there places to have lunch nearby?
A: There are many restaurants in Sakata City serving local ingredients. Sakata ramen and seafood bowls (kaisendon) are particularly famous.
Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Photography is allowed in the garden, but there are some restrictions inside the exhibition rooms.
Enjoy your visit and experience Japanese history and art at the Homma Museum of Art!
