Highlights and access methods of Chihiro Art Museum Azumino (Nagano Prefecture)
English | Japanese
The Chihiro Art Museum in Azumino exhibits the works of Chihiro Iwasaki, who was active as a picture book artist. Visitors can spend a full day in its wooden space reading picture books, playing, and making use of the cafe and shop with an open terrace. The museum is also surrounded by the Azumino Chihiro Park, where you can enjoy walks and experiences against the backdrop of the Northern Alps. A corner of the park recreates the world of 'Totto-chan: The Little Girl at the Window,' with a dedicated 'Totto-chan Square'.
In this article, we will explain the attractions of Chihiro Art Museum Azumino in Nagano Prefecture and how to access it for those who are traveling to Japan from overseas.
(Last modified: )
(Prefecture : Nagano , Category : Museums and Science Museums)
Table of contents
Highlights of Chihiro Art Museum Azumino
The Chihiro Art Museum Azumino is located in Matsukawa Village, Kitaazumi District, Nagano Prefecture, housing works by the picture book artist Chihiro Iwasaki and artists from around the world. The museum showcases more than 9500 of Chihiro's pieces.
Chihiro Iwasaki is a Japanese picture book artist, and her tender watercolor artworks, themed around "children's happiness and peace," continue to be loved across generations. Her representative works include 'The Girl with the Red Woolen Hat', and she also provided illustrations for works like 'Totto-chan: The Little Girl at the Window' (written by Tetsuko Kuroyanagi).
The interior of the museum provides a space where visitors can feel the warmth of wood, freely reading picture books and playing with toys. Furthermore, there is a picture book cafe with an open terrace and a museum shop, where both adults and children can enjoy the whole day.
The Chihiro Park in Azumino, surrounding the museum, is appealing with its rich natural environment set against the backdrop of the Northern Alps. Various experiences and walks can be enjoyed in the park. In one corner of the park, there is the 'Totto-chan Square', which recreates the world of 'Totto-chan: The Little Girl at the Window', and it includes a replica of the 'Train Classroom' that appears in the work.
Address and access method of Chihiro Art Museum Azumino
The address of Azumino Chihiro Art Museum is 3358-24 Nishihara, Matsukawa-mura, Kitaazumi-gun, Nagano Prefecture. The nearest station is Shinano Matsukawa Station on the JR Oito Line. It takes about 30 minutes on foot from the station, so please take a cab or rent a bicycle. Or, from Hotaka Station on the JR Oito Line, transfer to the Azumino Shuyu Bus and get off at the Azumino Chihiro Art Museum. It is a short walk from the stop. The bus is only in service for a limited period of time, so please check the schedule before using the bus.
Attractions near Chihiro Art Museum Azumino
There are several other attractions near the Chihiro Art Museum in Azumino that you may want to visit:
Daiou Wasabi Farm
This is one of the largest wasabi farms in Japan, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the cultivation and processing of wasabi. The farm is open to visitors, and you can stroll through the picturesque fields, sample wasabi-flavored products, and even try wasabi-infused ice cream.
Azumino National Park
This beautiful park offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including the Japanese Alps. There are numerous walking and hiking trails for visitors to explore, as well as opportunities for bird-watching, fishing, and picnicking.
Rokuzan Art Museum
This museum is dedicated to the works of Rokuzan Ogiwara, a renowned Japanese sculptor. It showcases his impressive sculptures and offers insight into his life and creative process.
Hotaka Shrine
This historic Shinto shrine is located near the Hotaka Station and is surrounded by lush forests. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful architecture make it an ideal place to connect with Japanese culture and history.
Azumino Winery
If you're interested in wine, Azumino Winery is worth a visit. The winery offers guided tours, where you can learn about the wine-making process and sample some of the locally produced wines.
Other information about Chihiro Art Museum Azumino
Official site about Chihiro Art Museum Azumino :
-- --
Thank you for reading to the end.
( Written by Tatsuo Ikura )
