Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art

Escape the cold fall season and bask in the art of French Painter Jean-François Millet, local Yamanashi artists, and many more.

▲Artwork by museum entrance

The Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art hosts an array of art works, as well as outdoor statues across its campus. This fall, the museum grounds look especially gorgeous bathed in vivid, autumnal reds, oranges and yellows. Just yesterday, the Kofu Meteorological Agency reported on the rarity of such vibrant leaves this late into the season. Many worried there would not be an autumn at all this year, seeing as the cold winds have persisted for so long. However, all worries were cast away as we sauntered through the beautiful colors towards the museum entrance.

Upon entering the museum, your temperature is immediately measured must fill out a simple form with COVID-19-related questions. The art-viewing areas are wide and well-ventilated. You can enjoy the beautiful artwork the museum has in store for you, worry-free. 

Jean-François Millet and the Barbizon School
Many years back, when the plans for this museum were still in development, the topic arose of whose art should be displayed as the primary, opening piece. After deliberating, the renowned French painter, Jean-François Millet, was chosen. His agricultural-focused work was considered a perfect fit for the prefecture. 

 
▲"The Sower" (Jean-François Millet)

For those unfamiliar with Millet’s work, he is well-known for his art featuring peasant farmers. And his art of the Barbizon school, which he helped form, centers greatly on farm life and natural, beautiful landscapes. At the time of the museum's creation, and even now, these stand as representative features of Yamanashi. The hardworking farmers of Yamanashi who work day in and day out, pruning branches and tilling soil, are able to step into the threshold of the Millet exhibit and see themselves.

This is the true wonder of the museum.

▲"Hay Harvesters" (Julien Dupré)

Japanese Artists from Yamanashi and Beyond
It is said that artists gather here, at the foot of Japan’s greatest mountain, from ancient Ukiyo-e painters such as Katsushika Hokusai, to modern geniuses such as Itchiku Kubota. Many men and women have picked up their brushes, pens, and pencils, eyeing the superb sights of Mt. Fuji. These same Yamanashi artists have managed to gain a rapport for their art that rivals those of many across the world. 

  
▲"Fly! Over Hokusai VII" (Seikou Kawachi)

More Info

Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art website:
https://www.art-museum.pref.yamanashi.jp/english/