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Amid Hakone’s rolling hills, the Hakone Venetian Glass Museum highlights the beauty of Murano glass—both antique and modern—set within gardens alive with glittering sculptures.
Why It’s Called the “Glass Forest”
One of our most memorable visits in Hakone is the Venetian Glass Museum. As we walked through the museum’s garden, we understood why it’s called the Glass Forest.
Here, the trees are decorated with glass flowers and crystal ornaments that shimmer in the sunlight, making the scene feel almost dreamlike. It was one of the most photogenic moments of our Hakone trip, and our kids couldn’t stop pointing out the sparkling details.
Main Galleries: A Journey Through Venetian Glass
Venetian Glass Museum
After the garden, we entered a gallery filled with glassworks from the 15th to 18th centuries. From delicate goblets to ornate chandeliers, every piece reflected centuries of Murano glassmaking traditions.
Classical music performances took place in the gallery, and sitting under the glow of Venetian chandeliers while listening to live music was unforgettable.
Venetian Glass Modern Museum
The modern wing showcased glass art from the late 19th century to today. Works by masters like Giuseppe Barovier and Livio Seguso sat alongside a vibrant display by Dale Chihuly. We were especially fascinated by Seguso’s kinetic glass sculptures that seemed to change with the light.
Don’t Miss: The Experience Studio
Families can try hands-on activities like making glass accessories or sandblasting designs for a small fee. Our kids loved creating their own souvenirs, and it was a wonderful way to connect with the artistry on display.
Family-Friendly Surprises
We weren’t expecting a glass museum to be so engaging for children, but the museum proved us wrong. During our visit, a Japanese artist demonstrated how to make glass insects over an open flame. Watching beetles and butterflies take shape in front of us was mesmerizing, and it quickly became a highlight of the day.
Livio Seguso Garden and Riverside Trail
At the back of the museum, a quiet path leads down to the Haya River. Shaded seating areas and the gentle sound of running water made it feel like a hidden retreat. Tucked away here is Livio Seguso’s “Vegetazione 95,” a sculpture symbolizing trees in motion.
How to Get to Hakone Venetian Glass Museum
By Bus
From Hakone-Yumoto Station, take the Hakone Tozan Bus bound for Kojiri or Togendai. Get off at Hyoseki/Hakone Garasu no Mori Mae. The entrance is right by the stop.
By Car
- From Hakone Yumoto Station The drive takes about 25 minutes.
- From Gora Station The drive takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
- From Lake Ashi near the Togendai area The drive takes about 15 minutes.
Paid on-site parking is available for visitors.
Pro Tip: Late morning light makes the glass trees sparkle. Leave time for the quiet riverside path behind the garden.
Is the Hakone Venetian Glass Museum Worth Visiting?
The museum is more than just an art gallery—it’s a full sensory experience, where European elegance meets the natural beauty of Hakone.
With sparkling gardens, hands-on workshops, and breathtaking glass artworks, our family found it both fun and unforgettable. If you’re visiting Sengokuhara or Gora, this charming museum is definitely worth adding to your itinerary.
More to Explore Nearby
The Venetian Glass Museum’s elegant setting and exquisite artistry place it perfectly within Hakone’s artistic center, providing easy access to another world-class outdoor museum, famous hot springs, and the region’s main transport hub.
- Hakone Open-Air Museum – Visit this unique, sprawling outdoor museum nearby that features an expansive collection of modern and contemporary sculpture art.
- Hakone Ropeway and Owakudani – Take the nearby Ropeway up the mountain for dramatic, sulfuric views of Owakudani volcanic valley and the surrounding area.
- Hakone-Yumoto – Explore the charming town center and major transportation hub at the base of the mountain, famous for its hot spring atmosphere and local shops.
- Hakone Freepass Guide – Maximize your sightseeing and travel efficiency around this vast area with a comprehensive guide to utilizing the cost-saving Hakone Freepass.
