Kirishima Open Air Museum

At the foot of Mt. Kirishima, halfway up Mount Kurino sits an open air art museum (indoor exhibits also included). Fused with the nature and lush greenery of Mt. Kirishima, the many works found here offer a look into masterful sculptures, and plenty of ways to enjoy artistry against the backdrop of the great outdoors.

This museum is home to all original works, created by the artists from Japan and around the world who came here and found inspiration in the deep nature, history and culture of the area. Many come to snap a photo at the larger-than-life Yayoi Kusam work, “Flowers by Shangri-la” over by the main gate, or at the oversized picture frames, “You are the Art” by Jeonghwa Choi. There’s an indoor space that has a number of works on display, including High Heel by Yayoi Kusama, Physical Pie by Murakami Takashi, “Endangered Species” by Yoko Ono, “A Yard of Clouds” by Katsura Funakoshi, “Frolic” by Churyo Sato, and more (the indoor exhibit may be closed due to special installations or re-curation of the exhibit works. Check the museum homepage for details.)

Inside you’ll find a glass-walled cafeteria to match all the open-air vibes. There’s even terrace seating, perfect for a chance to sit back and gaze out over the art works dotting across this natural escape.