Hoshun Yamaguchi Memorial Hall

Description

Y’know, there’s something really special about stepping into an artist’s former home – and the Hoshun Yamaguchi Memorial Hall is no exception. This place isn’t your typical stuffy museum; it’s a fascinating glimpse into the life and work of one of Japan’s most intriguing modern painters. What makes it extra cool is that this was actually [Hoshun Yamaguchi’s residence and studio](https://trip.pref.kanagawa.jp/destination/hoshun-yamaguchi-memorial-museum/392), where he created many of his masterpieces.

Key Features

• The original studio, designed by renowned architect Isohachi Yoshida, remains perfectly preserved
• An impressive collection of Yamaguchi’s paintings showcasing his unique blend of Western and Japanese artistic styles
• The artist’s personal antique collection that gives you a peek into his inspirations
• Traditional Japanese architecture that makes the building itself a work of art
• Peaceful gardens that complement the artistic atmosphere
• Rotating exhibitions that keep things fresh and interesting

Best Time to Visit

From my experience, early mornings tend to be quietest, making it perfect for really soaking in the artistic atmosphere without crowds. The hall is [open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM](https://www.tokyoartbeat.com/en/venues/-/hoshun-yamaguchi-memorial-hall), and I’d suggest planning your visit for weekdays if possible. Spring and fall are particularly lovely times to visit, when the surrounding gardens add an extra layer of beauty to your experience.

How to Get There

Getting to the Memorial Hall is pretty straightforward. The easiest route is to head to Zushi Station on the JR Yokosuka or Shonan Shinjuku lines. From there, hop on the Keikyu bus – either [bus #12 heading to Hayama or #11 towards Hayama Fukushi Bunka](https://www.tokyoartbeat.com/en/venues/-/hoshun-yamaguchi-memorial-hall). Trust me, even though it might seem a bit out of the way, the journey is part of the experience, taking you through some lovely coastal areas.

Tips for Visiting

Look, I’ve gotta be straight with you about a few things. First off, [admission is ¥600 for adults](https://www.tokyoartbeat.com/en/venues/-/hoshun-yamaguchi-memorial-hall), but here’s a money-saving tip: high school students and younger can get in free. If you’ve got a disability certificate, you and a companion can enter for ¥500 each.

A heads-up about accessibility: the building is a traditional Japanese structure, so it’s not entirely wheelchair-friendly. You might wanna call ahead if you have specific mobility needs.

Oh, and don’t forget your camera! But remember to check about photography rules when you arrive – some areas might have restrictions. I’d suggest setting aside at least 1-2 hours to really appreciate everything. The place isn’t huge, but there’s so much detail to take in.

And here’s a pro tip from someone who’s been there: bring some comfy socks! You’ll need to remove your shoes inside, and you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking around on traditional flooring.

BTW, while there’s no restaurant on-site, there are some great local spots nearby where you can grab a bite after your visit. Just make sure to hit the restroom before leaving – they have facilities on-site, and it might be a while before you find another one in the area.

One last thing – try to learn a bit about Hoshun’s work before you visit. It’ll make your experience so much richer when you understand how he [transitioned from Western-style painting to developing his own unique Japanese style](https://www.hoshun.jp/doc/English02.pdf). The staff are super knowledgeable, but they might not all speak English, so having some background knowledge really helps.

Location

Places to Stay Near Hoshun Yamaguchi Memorial Hall

Find and Book a Tour

Explore More Travel Guides