Nariwa Museum

The Nariwa Museum (成羽美術館, Nariwa Bijutsukan), located in Nariwa Town near Takahashi, is a striking art museum designed by the world-renowned architect Ando Tadao in 1994. Tadao's design, characterized by the use of unvarnished concrete and clean, sharp lines, provides a modern, minimalist backdrop for the art it houses. The main exhibition is dedicated to the works of Kojima Torajiro, a celebrated Western-style painter from Nariwa. Alongside his paintings, the museum displays items from Kojima’s personal collection, including rare ancient Egyptian artifacts, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into his diverse interests.

In addition to Kojima’s artwork, the museum highlights fossils discovered in the Nariwa region, known for housing one of Japan's oldest forests, which dates back over 200 million years. Visitors can also explore the museum's serene inner water garden, providing a peaceful retreat within the modern structure. The tranquil environment extends to the museum's small café and shop, where guests can relax and enjoy the calm surroundings, making it a perfect place to unwind after a day of cultural exploration.