Miho Museum

The basics

The exterior of the Miho Museum is as much an attraction as the collection inside. The approach was designed by Chinese-American architect I.M. Pei, who designed the glass pyramid outside the Louvre in Paris. You enter by climbing steps surrounded by trees, then pass through a tunnel and cross a bridge to reach the museum–a full sensory experience. Most travelers visit the Miho Museum on a day or half-day trip from Kyoto. You can visit independently by arranging private car transfers from Kyoto.

Things to know before you go

• There’s an entry fee to the museum, but elementary and junior high-aged kids can enter for free.

• Allow at least 90 minutes to see the exhibits and wander between all the buildings, but stay for longer if you prefer to browse at a leisurely pace.

• The on-site restaurant and tea room sell organic food and drinks.

• The museum has wheelchair access; you can borrow wheelchairs from the information counters, free of charge.

How to get there

It’s easy to reach the museum by public transport. From Kyoto, take the JR Biwako Line to Ishiyama Station (about 15 minutes). From there, take the Teisan Bus bound for the Miho Museum, a journey of around 50 minutes.

When to get there

The museum is open every day of the week, except Monday. If a public holiday falls on a Monday, it will be closed on the Tuesday of that week. It’s open from mid-morning until late-afternoon, with the last admission an hour before closing time. The museum is sometimes closed for exhibition changes, so check the current operation before planning a trip.

Visit the Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park

Art and crafts enthusiasts might also want to visit the nearby Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park, which is a 15-minute drive away. The park supports various ceramics initiatives, from exhibitions to training, and you can check out outdoor sculptures and displays, and a museum displaying pottery from around the world.