Nagano · Permanent cultural facility
Hokusai Museum, Obuse
Encounter Hokusai’s later years in Obuse through original paintings and the ceiling paintings of festival floats. The contrast between intimate brushwork and large ceremonial images offers a different perspective from his familiar prints.
What to see
- The Higashimachi and Kanmachi festival floats with dragon, phoenix and wave ceiling paintings
- Paintings, prints and illustrated books, with rotating selections
Nagano Electric Railway Obuse Station → your visit
- Take Nagano Electric Railway from the Zenkoji side of Nagano Station, then walk 12 minutes from Obuse Station.
- The museum gives about 20 minutes by limited express or 30 minutes by local train from Nagano; check current trains and fares.
Closures & important conditions
The current official guide states no regular closed day, also confirmed for 24 October 2026–17 January 2027. On 7–8 December 2026, only the festival-float gallery opens during exhibition changeover. Extra closures are announced separately.
- On December 31, 2026 and January 1, 2027, the museum opens 10:00–15:00, with last admission at 14:30. On December 7–8, 2026, only the festival-float gallery is open during exhibition changeover.
- Not every Hokusai work is permanently displayed; check the exhibition and rotation dates for a particular piece.
Plan your visit
Checked: 2026-11-06 · a facility guide, not a dated festival listing
Hours & admission arrangements
Normally 09:00–17:00, last entry 16:30. On 31 December 2026 and 1 January 2027: 10:00–15:00, with last admission 30 minutes before closing.
No advance reservation requirement is stated for ordinary entry. Groups of 20+ should contact the museum ahead. Tel 026-247-5206.
- Standard exhibitions: adults ¥1,200, high-school/university students ¥500, elementary/junior-high students ¥300, preschool children free. Special exhibitions can cost more; the 24 October 2026–17 January 2027 show lists these standard rates.
- Exhibition galleries are on one floor. Indoor-use wheelchairs: two at reception and one at Higashimachi parking; one stroller at reception.
What still needs checking
- Live foreign-language interpretation, gallery access/prices during changeovers after 18 January 2027, and cancellation terms for booked groups.
Official sources & photographs
Access to individual areas, exhibits and activities can vary by day.
Photo pending · View official photos ↗
Announced exhibitions
Periods can include closed days. Open each exhibition for its own conditions.
- Exposition Hokusai Returns from Nantes: Masterpieces from Obuse · 2026-10-24 – 2027-01-17
- Beautiful Hokusai: Perspectives on Beauty · 2027-01-23 – 2027-03-28