Morinoouchi Picture Book Museum

Japanese name: Morinoouchi Ehon Bijutsukan (森のおうち絵本美術館)

The Morinoouchi Picture Book Museum has the feel of a log cabin exterior with an elegant and imaginative interior. The Museum features wonderful rotating exhibitions in its second floor galleries, a full library of children’s books, storytelling upon request in its conference room, a book store featuring classic and obscure picture books in Japanese and English, a small restaurant, and an adjacent cabin for lodging.

Gallery

The galleries on the second floor of the centre feature six different exhibitions throughout the year which rotate about every two months. The art often interprets daily life, morals, myth, and fable in a wonderful display of imaginative characters, style, and colour. During my last visit, the galleries featured some of the museum’s permanent collection of an artist’s interpretation of Lewis Carrols Alice in Wonderland.

Opportunities for Lodging and Conferences

The front room can be rented out for book readings, lectures, or conferences. While the adjacent cabins offer varying rates to accommodate singles or larger groups.

Special Events

Storytelling Circle, Singing (sometimes)

Museum Hotaka Hot Springs Area
Access
10 minute taxi ride from JR Hotaka or Ariake Station
20-30 minute drive from the Azumino Interchange
Address
2215-9 Hotaka Ariake
TEL
0263-83-5670
Fee
Adult: ¥800
Elementary and Junior High School Students: ¥500
Hours
9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. (last entry 30 min before closing)
* 9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Dec to Feb (last entry 30 min before closing)
Closed
Thursdays and select holidays