Hakone Open Air Museum Tours and Activities

Hakone Open Air Museum featuring a garden and a statue or sculpture
Hakone Open Air Museum
Hakone Open Air Museum
Hakone Open Air Museum
Hakone Open Air Museum showing a statue or sculpture and a garden


Spend a day spotting artworks and strolling along the gentle hills and lush lawns at this peaceful garden gallery on a scenic railway route.

The Hakone Open Air Museum (Hakone Chōkoku No Mori Bijutsukan) encompasses a sprawling hillside, its carefully placed sculptures responding to the stunning surroundings of mountains and green valleys. Discover the museum’s eclectic collection of sculptures, which includes artworks by Japanese and Western artists from the 19th and 20th centuries. Check out the Picasso Pavilion while the kids explore the fun-filled playground.

Enter the sculpture park via the dark entryway tunnel, which evokes a passage into a secret garden. You’ll see a variety of sculptural artworks interacting with the contours of the surrounding landscape. Don’t miss works by Auguste Rodin, Henry Moore and Jean Miró set against the green mountains of the Hakone region. The museum also features a collection of indoor galleries that display permanent collections and temporary exhibitions, many of which illustrate contemporary and historical innovations in sculpture. Check out the Picasso Pavilion, which houses about 300 works. This excellent collection spans the modern master’s paintings, prints, ceramics, glass arts and tapestries.

Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxed lunch on the lawns as you take in the stunning surrounding views. Kids will love the sculptural indoor playground, which incorporates geometric shapes and patterns. Many of the outdoor sculptures are also interactive and suitable for children.

After exploring the gardens, enjoy a snack or meal. Choose from the on-site café, buffet-style restaurant or Hong Kong-style dim sum restaurant. The Hakone Open Air Museum Shop offers a wide selection of souvenirs. The museum’s outdoor footbath is the perfect spot to spend some time while you wait for the train to your next destination.

The Hakone Open Air Museum is located nearby the Chokoku No Mori Station on the scenic Hakone Tozan Railway. The museum is open daily and Hakone Free Pass holders receive discounted admission. Combine your trip with a ride on the Hakone-Tozan Cablecar, which departs from nearby Gora or a visit to some local hot springs (onsen).

Plan a trip to see Hakone Open Air Museum

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Popular places to visit


Top Hakone Open Air Museum Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora by IHG

Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora by IHG

4.5 out of 5
924-1 Kiga, Hakone-machi Ashigarashimo gun, Hakone, Kanagawa
Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora by IHG
Hakone Kowakien TEN-YU

Hakone Kowakien TEN-YU

4.5 out of 5
1297 Ninotaira, Hakone, Kanagawa
Hakone Kowakien TEN-YU
Hakone Yutowa

Hakone Yutowa

2.5 out of 5
1300-27, Gora, Hakone, Kanagawa
Hakone Yutowa
Rakuten STAY TERRACE Hakone Kowakudani

Rakuten STAY TERRACE Hakone Kowakudani

4.5 out of 5
483-2 Kowakudani, Hakone, Kanagawa
Rakuten STAY TERRACE Hakone Kowakudani
Hakone Gora KARAKU

Hakone Gora KARAKU

4.5 out of 5
1300-8 Gora, Hakone, Kanagawa
Hakone Gora KARAKU
Fujiya Hotel

Fujiya Hotel

5 out of 5
359 Miyanoshita, Hakone, Kanagawa-ken
Fujiya Hotel
Gora Kadan

Gora Kadan

4.5 out of 5
1300, Gora, Hakone, Kanagawa-ken
Gora Kadan
Hakone Kowakien Mikawaya Ryokan

Hakone Kowakien Mikawaya Ryokan

4 out of 5
503 Kowakudani, Hakone, Kanagawa
Hakone Kowakien Mikawaya Ryokan
Mizunoto

Mizunoto

3.5 out of 5
492-23 Kowakidani, Hakone, Kanagawa
Mizunoto
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Hakone Open Air Museum

At Hakone Open Air Museum, visitors can explore various exhibition spaces showcasing stunning sculptures and artworks amidst nature. Nearby, you can enjoy abundant sightseeing opportunities, including the picturesque Hakone Gora Park. For golf enthusiasts, there are golf courses to indulge in. For more detailed information, refer to the official Hakone travel guide to enhance your experience in this beautiful region of Japan.

Shopping

The Hakone Open Air Museum offers a delightful shopping experience nearby. You can explore Gotemba Premium Outlets, 9.7km away, perfect for family and city vibes, or visit Harune Odawara, also 9.7km away, for varied shopping. Hakone Pass Road Station, just 6.4km away, is great for unique souvenirs.

Recreation

Odawara Arena, a vibrant sports facility, offers a range of activities for fitness enthusiasts only 11.3km from Hakone Open Air Museum. For golf lovers, Gotemba Golf Club, located 9.7km away, provides stunning outdoor views. Experience luxury at Daihakone Country Club, just 4.8km from the museum.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Fuji Speedway, located 17.7km from Hakone Open Air Museum, where adrenaline meets speed. For a family adventure, enjoy breathtaking views from the Hakone Ropeway, just 3.2km away, or the scenic Hakone Komagatake Ropeway, 4.8km away.

Nightlife

At night, explore the Fujisan Juku no Mori Amphitheater for captivating performances and cultural experiences. For a stargazing adventure, visit the Gekko Observatory. If you’re seeking thrills, the Cycle Sports Center offers arcade fun and adventure activities, perfect for the whole family.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Hakone Open Air Museum

If you're visiting the Hakone Open Air Museum, there are plenty of cultural and outdoor experiences to enjoy. Explore nearby attractions like the Hakone Botanical Garden and various art museums, or visit shrines that reflect the region's rich heritage. Whether you're travelling with family or seeking a cultural getaway, Hakone offers a delightful mix of activities for everyone.

  • Lake Ashi: Nestled about 6.4km from Hakone Open Air Museum, Lake Ashi offers stunning scenery and romantic vibes. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride or relax on the beach while soaking in the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji in the distance.
  • Hakone Shrine: Located 4.8km away, this culturally rich shrine is set against a backdrop of lush forest. Its iconic torii gate by the lake adds to the tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for reflection and appreciation of Japan's spiritual heritage.
  • Ōwakudani: Just 3.2km from the museum, Ōwakudani is an adventurous valley known for its volcanic activity. Explore hiking trails, sample black eggs boiled in hot springs, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Best time to go to Hakone Open Air Museum

The best time to visit Hakone Open Air Museum is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
February43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May65.1°F (18.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.5°F (21.4°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
July77.9°F (25.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September74.3°F (23.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
October64.9°F (18.3°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November56.5°F (13.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December46.9°F (8.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Hakone Open Air Museum

When planning your trip to the Hakone Open Air Museum, consider visiting in February, June, or September for the best rates. Book your accommodation about a month in advance to secure the lowest prices, especially on Fridays, which tend to be cheaper than Sundays. Use Expedia to find and compare hotel options, focusing on eco-friendly choices and package deals that combine flights and stays for added savings. Also, take advantage of free activities in the area to maximise your budget while enjoying this beautiful location.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Hakone Open Air Museum are February, June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Hakone Open Air Museum about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Hakone Open Air Museum is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Hakone Open Air Museum is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay near the Hakone Open Air Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.