History/Culture

Sano Art Museum

Sword, Painting, and Picture Book Exhibitions
Sano Museum opened on November 10, 1966. It hosts a variety of exhibitions 7 to 8 times a year.

2500 Pieces from Japan and Other Parts of Asia
Pieces belonging to Sano Ryuichi (1889-1977), the founder of the museum, make up the foundation of the museum’s collection.

The Characteristics and Variety of the Collection
There are many types of famous Japanese swords, as well as ceramics, gilt bronze Buddha statues, old transcribed sutras, Japanese paintings, Noh masks, accessories, and dolls. The collection focuses on Asian art and is organized systematically.

Ryusen-en Garden - A Nation Tangible Cultural Property
There is a Japanese stroll garden located on the museum grounds which makes use of the natural surroundings. Here you can find a Japanese-style Ryusen-en house that has been built using carefully chosen materials (The inside of the house is usually not open to the public.)
The “Ryu” in “Ryusen-en” comes from the “Ryu” in “Sano Ryuichi” who was the founder. The “sen” comes from the Japanese word for spring or fountain. You can enjoy walking around the garden during museum opening hours.