A Serene Harmony of Art & Nature — My Visit to Nezu Museum, Tokyo

#japanitinerary Strolling into the Nezu Museum in Minami-Aoyama felt like stepping into an oasis of calm amid Tokyo’s hustle. Designed by Kengo Kuma and built in 2009, the museum seamlessly blends art, architecture, and nature into one thoughtful experience . I arrived around 10 AM and spent about 1½ to 2 hours exploring. Entry for the permanent collection is ¥1,300 (¥1,000 for high‑school students; junior and younger visit free), with timed‑entry reservations available ¥100 cheaper online . The well-curated collection—around 7,600 East Asian artworks, including seven National Treasures—features ceramics, calligraphy, paintings, metalwork, and Buddhist statuary . Inside, spaces are intimate and thoughtfully designed. Bamboo-lined entry paths lead to galleries clad in softly lit stone and wood. Highlights include Ogata Kōrin’s folding screen “Irises”—a National Treasure briefly displayed each spring—and exquisite Buddhist pieces that resonate with spiritual depth . Stepping outside, the expansive 17,000 m² Japanese garden stole the show. Filled with meandering stone paths, tea houses, streams, lanterns, and seasonal blooms, it feels like a private Zen retreat. I savored a peaceful moment at NEZUCAFÉ overlooking the garden—a perfect mid-visit pause . 🕰️ Visitor Details • Hours: 10 AM–5 PM (last entry 4:30 PM); closed Mondays  • Entry Fees: Adult ¥1,300; HS+ ¥1,000; free for JHS and under. Timed tickets online are slightly cheaper  • Recommended Duration: 1½–2 hours—including galleries, garden stroll, and café break Why It’s Special: • A unique fusion of art, architecture, and landscape design—the building itself is as captivating as the exhibits   • A World-class collection with National Treasures and significant cultural pieces  • One of Tokyo’s most calming gardens, perfect for reflection and photography  • NEZUCAFÉ and gift shop make for a relaxing, well-rounded visit  Final Thoughts: The Nezu Museum offers a rare blend of quiet contemplation and aesthetic delight in the middle of Tokyo. Whether you come for the art, the architecture, or the garden, it’s a rejuvenating cultural haven—and highly recommended for a thoughtful half-day escape.