Hoki Museum

Japan’s first museum to specialize in realist paintings, where artists paint landscapes and subjects exactly as they see them. The museum houses approx. 500 realist paintings by around 60 contemporary artists, led by 36 works by Sosuke Morimoto—the largest collection in Japan.

Galleries 1–9 always display approx. 120 works by theme. The highlight is “My Masterpiece,” a series of large-scale works (No. 100 size or larger) that in-demand artists plan themselves and complete over three years—an unforgettable sight. These meticulously rendered, almost photo-real works are well worth your time. The corridor-style galleries stretch 500m across the above-ground first floor and two basement levels, with thoughtful features for comfortable viewing, including soft lighting close to natural light and rubber flooring that’s easier on your feet. Don’t miss the distinctive exterior, which looks partly suspended in midair and feels like art in itself.

The restaurant “Hanau,” where you can enjoy a meal while looking out over the greenery of Chiba City’s largest park, Showa no Mori, next door, can be used without museum admission. The museum also has a cafe and a museum shop.