Discover a celebration of one of the most famous artists from Asahikawa at the Asahikawa Museum of Sculpture. Born in Hokkaido, Nakahara went on to have a strong impact on modern sculpture in Japan. Admire his works alongside examples by other national artists.
The main collection features 12 pieces by Nakahara. He was greatly influenced by the style of Auguste Rodin, some of whose works are exhibited here as well. Study the realistic features of each of Nakahara’s thought-provoking pieces. See contributions by other notable Japanese artists such as Churyo Satou, Yasutake Funakoshi and Yoshi Kinouchi. Together they help to highlight the evolution of Japanese sculpture from the start of the modern era until today.
Besides displaying art, the museum sometimes hosts concerts, lectures and children’s events. Come to Asahikawa for the annual presentation of the Teijiro Nakahara Award that takes place in October. In conjunction with the ceremony, the site displays sculptures created by previous recipients of the award.
Be sure to take a moment to admire the striking exterior of the Western-style building that houses the Asahikawa Museum of Sculpture. The two-story timber landmark has an arched balcony that meets at a central, oval-shaped terrace. The building has received Japan’s Important Cultural Property status. Built in the early 1900s, it was previously used by an infantry division of the Imperial Japanese Army as a venue for social gatherings.
Asahikawa Museum of Sculpture is open from Tuesday to Sunday and has an admission fee. Drive about 20 minutes north of the city center and Asahikawa Station to reach the museum. While you’re here, visit the neighboring Yasushi Inoue Memorial Museum, dedicated to the life of one of Japan’s most revered masters of modern literature. Stop at the park across the street to rest under shady trees, enjoy a children’s playground and view a clock tower.
