Honma Museum of Art

The Honma Museum of Art (本間美術館, Honma Bijutsukan), nestled in Sakata, is famous for its exquisite Edo Period villa and serene Japanese garden. Built in 1813 as a vacation home for the Honma family, the villa embodies the elegance and charm of past centuries. The surrounding garden is a traditional strolling garden, featuring a central pond and winding paths that offer constantly changing scenic views. Visitors can leisurely explore this tranquil space and enjoy the villa’s historical ambiance. Inside, the villa showcases a collection of exhibits, while a cozy café overlooks the peaceful garden. The second floor houses a spacious tatami room with large windows, providing stunning views of the grounds below.

Opened in 1947, the Honma Museum of Art was the first privately-owned art museum in postwar Japan. While the museum moved to a larger, modern building in 1968, the villa continues to be a focal point of the experience. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, including displays of historical artifacts and a well-regarded collection of dolls, offering visitors a unique cultural experience.