While most visitors undoubtedly come to Ikaho for its famous hot springs, the town also hosts a variety of interesting art museums that tourists might enjoy. Most are in the lower town area within a short walk of the bottom of the stone steps.
Takehisa Yumeji Memorial Museum
10 minute walk from the base of the stone steps Hours: 9:00 to 17:00 Closed: No closing days Admission: 1800 yen
This museum spans multiple atmospheric buildings and exhibits a collection of artwork by the turn-of-the-century painter Takehisa Yumeji, who was born in Okayama, but visited Ikaho several times. The museum also displays a few large, antique music boxes from around the world, which are played several times daily. A selection of Taisho and Meiji era glasswork is displayed in a separate building.
Hoshina Art Museum
10 minute walk from the base of the stone steps Hours: 9:00 to 16:00 Closed: Wednesdays and Thursdays Admission: 1000 yen (800 yen with coupon)
The Hoshina Art Museum displays a variety of art by Japanese artists including modern paintings, art nouveau glasswork, and a collection of Takehisa Yumeji artwork. The museum also offers visitors a hot spring foot bath and a cafe with views out over the surrounding mountains.
Next to Ikaho Green Bokujo Hours: 9:30 to 16:30 (entry until 16:00) Closed: Thursdays, between exhibitions, Jan 1 and from mid Jan to late Mar Admission: 1800 yen (1500 yen if purchased online)
The Hara Museum ARC displays rotating exhibitions of contemporary art by both Japanese and foreign artists. Most of the artwork is displayed in the museum's indoor exhibition spaces, although some artwork is found outside on the museum grounds.
