In Sengokuhara, the Pola Museum of Art pairs Western and Japanese art with a forest setting. Its glass-and-concrete building sits mostly underground, bringing natural light into the galleries while keeping its profile low among the trees. The collection includes French Impressionist paintings by Monet, Renoir and Cézanne, alongside Japanese paintings, ceramics and glasswork. After the exhibitions, follow the woodland path to see outdoor sculptures and enjoy the quieter surroundings. A free shuttle runs from Gora Station, making the museum a convenient art stop in Hakone.
A museum built into the forest
The Pola Museum of Art opened in Sengokuhara in 2002 with the idea of bringing art and Hakone’s natural setting together. Much of the building is underground, and its height above ground is limited to eight metres. Glass surfaces and large windows draw daylight into the interior and frame views of the surrounding trees.
The building’s low profile helps it sit within the forest rather than dominate it. Inside, the bright galleries and open-feeling spaces keep the landscape close, even when you are looking at paintings. The museum is in the Kozukayama area of Sengokuhara, north of Gora.
Impressionism and a wider collection
The collection includes around 9,500 works, with a strong focus on Western painting from the 19th and 20th centuries. Monet, Renoir, Cézanne, Picasso and Chagall are among the artists represented. The museum also displays Japanese paintings, including Japanese-style and Western-style works, as well as prints and contemporary art.
Painting is only part of the collection. You may also find Oriental ceramics, modern ceramics, glasswork, sculptures and cosmetic tools. Exhibitions change, so the artists and objects on view depend on the programme during your visit. Past exhibitions have brought together Monet’s work with contemporary art, while other displays have focused on glass or ceramics.
The forest path and outdoor sculptures
A nature trail through the surrounding beech forest extends the visit outdoors. Sculptures are placed along the route, where the walk combines art with the sounds and scenery of the woods. The trail takes around 30 to 40 minutes to stroll. Its character changes with the seasons, and some sections can feel dry in winter.
Visitors have also encountered mist and music along parts of the path. These details can make the forest walk feel distinct from the galleries, but they are not a substitute for the trail itself. Plan to explore both the indoor exhibitions and the outdoor route if you want to see how the museum connects its collection with its setting.
Getting there and planning your visit
A free shuttle connects the museum with Gora Station. Hakone Tozan buses also serve the Pola Bijutsukan bus stop, a short walk from the entrance. Weekdays tend to be quieter, which can leave more room to take your time in the galleries and on the trail.
The museum has a restaurant, a café and a gift shop, so you can take a break on site. Exhibition photography is not allowed. Check the museum’s website for current exhibitions and visitor details before setting out.
Perguntas frequentes
How do you get to the Pola Museum of Art from Gora Station?
A free shuttle runs from Gora Station to the museum. Hakone Tozan buses also stop at Pola Bijutsukan, a short walk away.
How long does the nature trail take?
Allow around 30 to 40 minutes for a stroll along the trail.
Can you take photos inside the galleries?
Photography is not allowed in the exhibitions.
What can you see at the Pola Museum of Art?
The collection includes Western and Japanese paintings, ceramics, glasswork, sculptures and cosmetic tools. The museum also has a forest trail with outdoor sculptures.
