MIHO MUSEUM

The Miho Museum is a true architectural gem nestled in the Japanese countryside. Designed by the legendary I.M. Pei, the building seamlessly blends with the natural landscape, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. As you approach the museum, you're greeted by a contemporary tunnel that leads you directly into the heart of the experience. The lighting within this entryway is simply extraordinary, setting the stage for the wonders that lie ahead. The entire environment, from the meticulously curated art collection to the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, elicits a profound sense of mindfulness. It's as if the museum has a way of slowing down time and allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the moment. We drove to the museum and there were ample of parking space.

The museum offers a harmonious blend of art and nature. The architecture seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape, creating a serene experience. The mosses outside were well maintained, which enhanced the natural beauty.

The architecture of this museum reflects IM Pei's childhood memory of the staircases to temples. His reflection of the need to exert effort and will to get to the top is depicted by the tunnel to the front staircase of the museum. The landscape is naturally shown by the artisans and the architect's imagination and the desire to keep everything in its normal form. The museum is definitely worth visiting.

Reknowned architect I.M. Pei designed a museum for the private collection of art and treasures of one of Japan's wealthiest families. No photos allowed inside. All I can capture are the photos from the brochure. It's not the Louvre in Paris, nor the Smithsonian, but it's still an impressive private collection and an even more impressive architectural marvel by I.M. Pei. Make sure to watch the short video/ mini documentary on the making of the museum. This museum was part of our tour group's 1/2 day excursion included in the package. I would never have known about this museum if not for this tour package. But would I go on my own? Maybe if I had the spare time and staying in or near Lake Biwa. It was a magical experience when it started to snow. The museum reminds me of a cross between the The Getty Villa and the more modern Getty Museum in Los Angeles. This is not a top 10 must-see attraction, but a nice 1-3 hour break during your travels.

Incredible architecture poetrily hides in the mountains that near the Kyoto Station about less than one hour drive distance. Strongly suggest you rent a car from Kyoto Station, we rented it from 11:00 to 19:00 and we didn’t experience traffic jam even when we back to the Station from museum around 16:00 pm. For photography lover, you do need zoom lens from extra-wide angle to abt 100mm. However, it’s not allow photograph inside the exhibition. You cannot take any pictures about paintings, statues or any concrete things in the exhibition of this museum.