[Yamagata, Homma Museum of Art] A famous museum where you can experience the history and art of the Shonai clan

What is the Homma Museum of Art?

The Homma Museum of Art is a museum located in Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture, where history and culture blend harmoniously.

This facility showcases the feudal lord culture of the Shonai region from the Edo period and the historical collection of the Homma family. Along with its beautiful gardens, it is a tourist spot worth visiting.

The museum was established by the Homma family, considered one of Japan's three great landowners.

The Homma family is known for amassing great wealth during the Edo period and contributing to the development of the Shonai region.

Within the museum grounds, there is also Seienkaku, a former villa of the Homma family, and Kakubu-en, a garden where you can enjoy seasonal scenery, making it a popular spot to experience traditional Japanese beauty.

This article introduces the highlights of the Homma Museum of Art, ways to enjoy it, and access information.

Highlights of the Homma Museum of Art

1. The Art Collection of Historical Value from the Homma Family

At the Homma Museum of Art, a wide range of art pieces, including Japanese paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, armor, and tea utensils, are on display.

The exhibits are precious works from the Edo period to the modern era, allowing visitors to engage with the history of Japanese art.

Especially notable are the many historical documents related to the Shonai Domain and the Homma family, offering a glimpse into the lives of samurai and merchants during the Edo period.

Special exhibitions are also held for limited periods, so there are always new discoveries to be made with each visit.

2. The Charming "Seienkaku"

Within the grounds of the Homma Museum of Art is the former villa "Seienkaku" of the Homma family.

This building was relocated from another location in Sakata City and is a valuable structure that retains the atmosphere of an Edo-period samurai residence.

Highlights of Seienkaku

• Formal Shoin-style architecture (experience Edo-period Japanese architecture)
• History as a reception hall for feudal lords
• Beautiful fusuma paintings and transom carvings (decorations showcasing artisan skills)

From inside Seienkaku, you can take in a panoramic view of the garden "Kakubu-en," giving you the sensation of having traveled back in time.

3. Enjoy the Seasonal Beauty of "Kakubu-en"

The garden of the Homma Museum of Art, "Kakubu-en," is a place where you can fully appreciate the beauty of a Japanese garden.

It is said to have been named when the feudal lord of the Shonai Domain visited this location, and the landscape, featuring a tranquil pond and lush greenery, evokes a sense of traditional Japanese beauty.

Seasonal Highlights

• Spring: The garden is enveloped in a festive atmosphere with cherry blossoms in full bloom
• Summer: The lush green trees create a refreshing landscape
• Autumn: Enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage and enchanting scenery
• Winter: The snow-covered garden conveys the charm of a Japanese winter

Walking paths are well-maintained within the garden, allowing for leisurely strolls to enjoy the scenery.

4. Limited-Time Special Exhibits and Workshops

Throughout the year, the Homma Museum of Art hosts various special exhibitions and art events.

Workshops on traditional crafts and exhibitions by local artists are also held, providing valuable opportunities to engage with art.

Checking the official website for event information before visiting will ensure a more enriching experience.

Useful Information for Travelers

Access Information

Access by Train and Bus

• About 5 minutes by taxi from JR Sakata Station
• About 10 minutes by local bus from Sakata Station, get off at "Homma Museum of Art"

Access by Car

• About 1 hour 30 minutes by car from Yamagata City
• About 20 minutes by car from Shonai Airport
• Free parking available

Admission Fee & Hours

• Admission Fee:
• Adults: 1,000 yen
• High school and university students: 500 yen
• Middle school students and younger: Free
• Hours:
• 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)
• * Closes at 4:30 PM during winter (December–February)

Wi-Fi Information

• No free Wi-Fi inside the museum (available at the tourist information center)

Language Support

• Tourist brochures in English and Chinese available (can be obtained at 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 those interested in Japanese history and art.

You can enjoy the Homma family's art collection, which has continued from the Edo period, and the beautiful seasonal gardens, allowing you to appreciate both art and nature simultaneously.

When visiting the Yamagata and Shonai regions, be sure to stop by!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to tour the museum?

A: You can thoroughly enjoy it 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 particularly recommended, but summer and winter also have their own charms.

Q: Are there places nearby for lunch?

A: There are many restaurants in Sakata City using local ingredients. "Sakata Ramen" and "Seafood Rice Bowls" are especially famous.

Q: Is photography allowed?

A: Photography is allowed in the garden, but there are some restrictions inside the exhibition rooms.

Enjoy your journey of experiencing Japanese history and art at the Homma Museum of Art!