My wife and I visited The Hosomi Museum and it was one of the highlights of our time in Kyoto. Many visitors focus on the city’s famous temples and gardens but nothing in the city, in our view, offers a deeper connection to Japan’s artistic heritage than this museum.. The collection is beautifully curated, with remarkable works that span centuries of Japanese culture and craftsmanship. Also everything is presented very thoughtfully and is not overwhelming like some museums. And architecturally the museum itself fits perfectly with Kyoto’s atmosphere and has a nice cafe inside. If you’re visiting Kyoto and looking for something beyond the usual tourist attractions, definitely check out the Hosomi Museum. A hidden gem, but probably not for long..

Visited the Hosomi Museum in Kyoto’s beautiful Okazaki district and it was a delightful hidden gem. The thoughtfully curated exhibition and peaceful atmosphere let you truly appreciate every detail. Perfect for anyone who loves traditional Japanese antique art. I left feeling refreshed and inspired!

1) Access from Tokyo Take Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station, about 2 hours. 25 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station. 2) Cost Shinkansen about 1400 yen, admission fee 1800 yen 3) Review The museum displays the collection of the Hosomi family, who have been collecting Japanese art works for three generations, father and son. Kei The architecture of the museum is also worth seeing. From the entrance on the ground floor, visitors go down to the second basement level to admire the collection. Basement The atrium structure gives a sense of openness even on the second basement floor. The exhibition on display in July 2013 features folding screens and picture scrolls. The changes in the depiction of Kyoto's rakuchu and rakugai areas over the years are also interesting. This is an event where visitors can enjoy the art of folding screens.

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Hosomi Museum is a quiet and refined museum that focuses on traditional Japanese art. The scale of the building is modest, which makes the visit feel calm and manageable. Exhibitions are carefully curated, and the limited number of works on display allows each piece to be viewed without distraction. The atmosphere inside is subdued and focused, encouraging visitors to slow down and engage with the artworks. Explanations are concise, and the overall layout supports a smooth and unhurried flow. It is not a place for large crowds or dramatic displays, but rather for steady and attentive viewing. Overall, Hosomi Museum is best suited for visitors with a genuine interest in classical art and design. It offers a thoughtful experience that values depth and restraint over volume.

Cons - Unforgivable museum for ¥2200. Scrolls have so much art but they show only less than a meter. There are dozens of scrolls. The most expensive ticket I've bought in Japan. See picture attached. - no translations for most of it, no phones, no wifi Pros - rare Ukiyoe - depiction of a man using his penis to play a shamisen - depiction of a woman pleasuring herself with radish - nice shop