Okura Museum of Art

Amidst Tokyo’s towering skyscrapers, the Okura Museum of Art beckons. It stands as a testament to Japan’s rich artistic heritage. The Okura Museum of Art first opened its doors in 1917. It was the brainchild of industrialist Okura Kihachirō. His vision was to create a haven for pre-modern Japanese and East Asian art. The museum became the first private museum in Japan. The Okura Museum of Art’s journey hasn’t been without its trials. The Great Kantō earthquake of 1923 devastated the museum. Many exhibits were destroyed. Thankfully, stored works survived. The museum was meticulously rebuilt in 1927 by Itō Chūta, a prominent architect and architectural historian. The building itself is now a Registered Cultural Property. Within its walls, the Okura Museum of Art houses around 2,500 works. These include three National Treasures. One is a wooden statue of Samantabhadra riding an elephant. This dates back to the Heian period. Another treasure is a scroll painting titled “Imperial Guard Cavalry,” dating to 1247. The third is a copy of the preface to the Kokinshū, attributed to Minamoto no Shunrai. The museum’s collection also boasts twelve Important Cultural Properties. These works span various art forms. They offer a glimpse into the artistic brilliance of Japan and East Asia. The Okura Museum of Art is more than just a museum. It’s a story of resilience, a celebration of art. It is a tribute to the vision of its founder. Today, the Okura Museum of Art stands proudly within the grounds of the Hotel Okura Tokyo. It continues to captivate visitors. It shares its remarkable collection. It offers a journey through time and artistry.