Homma Museum of Art

Established in 1947, Homma Museum of Art is located in Sakata City in northwestern Yamagata Prefecture. The city once prospered, particularly around the port area, during the Edo period (1603-1868) and still retains the stunning historic and cultural atmosphere of a great port town. The museum itself sits in an amazing Japanese garden of approximately 20,000 square meters, which showcases displays of natural beauty throughout the year, such as white azaleas in the spring and colorful leaves in the autumn. Visitors can stroll around the pond and enjoy the seasonal views.

The main hall, Seienkaku, is a wonderful example of wooden Kyoto-style architecture with elaborate traditional Japanese features, like lattice doors, and it is cleverly combined with designs that were contemporary and popular during the Taisho period (1912-1926). Also exhibited inside the building is a valuable collection of Japanese traditional artwork, including hanging scrolls and teaware, along with a cafe where visitors can enjoy coffee or green tea with a beautiful view of the garden. There is also a separate exhibition area that holds special events featuring antique and modern art.