Fukuda Art Museum is a hidden gem located in the heart of Kyoto, Japan. This privately-owned museum houses an impressive collection of Japanese, Chinese, and Western art, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the world of art spanning several centuries. Established in 2011 by the Fukuda family, the museum was built to share their extensive private collection with the public. The family has been collecting art for over four generations, focusing on pieces from the Muromachi, Momoyama, and Edo periods in Japan, as well as Chinese art from various dynasties.
Museum’s Collection
The Fukuda Art Museum boasts a diverse collection of Japanese, Chinese, and Western art. Its Japanese art collection includes paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, and lacquerware, with a particular emphasis on folding screens and sliding door panels from the Muromachi and Momoyama periods. The Chinese art collection showcases ceramics, bronzes, and paintings from various dynasties such as the Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing, illustrating the evolution of Chinese art and cultural exchanges with Japan. Although smaller in size, the Western art collection features a noteworthy array of paintings, sculptures, and decorative art pieces from Europe and the United States, mainly focusing on 19th and 20th-century works.
Famous Exhibits
The Fukuda Art Museum is home to several renowned exhibits, such as Kano Eitoku’s six-panel folding screen from the Momoyama period, which displays a stunning landscape with intricately detailed flora and fauna. Visitors can also admire the pair of wooden phoenix sculptures from the early Edo period, exemplifying the exceptional craftsmanship and artistic expression of Japanese artists. Another highlight is the exquisite bronze vase from the Chinese Ming Dynasty, featuring a coiled dragon design that symbolizes power and strength, showcasing the intricate metalwork techniques of Chinese artists during the 15th and 16th centuries.
How to get there
To get to Fukuda Art Museum from Kyoto Station, you can take the subway or the city bus. For the subway, hop on the Karasuma Line and get off at Marutamachi Station. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the museum. Alternatively, you can take the city bus from Kyoto Station and alight at the “Kyoto Gyoen-mae” bus stop, which is just a 5-minute walk away from the museum.
Fukuda Art Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers visiting Kyoto. Its diverse collection of Japanese, Chinese, and Western art, along with its rotating special exhibitions and events, ensures that there’s always something new and exciting to discover. With its convenient location and welcoming atmosphere, the Fukuda Art Museum promises a memorable and enriching experience for all its visitors.
