🗺️ Forest of Muses

The museum garden located in the lush natural greenery of South Karuizawa features two facilities: the "Karuizawa Picture Book Forest Museum" and the "Karuizawa Erz Toy Museum," where visitors can encounter many picture books and toys from abroad. Inside the "Karuizawa Picture Book Forest Museum," there are three exhibition halls that showcase the evolution of European and American picture books from their inception to modern times. The museum primarily displays works by renowned modern European and American artists, original illustrations from picture books, and first editions, allowing visitors to lose track of time as they immerse themselves in the world of picture books. There is also a natural garden called "Picture-Perfect Garden," where one can leisurely stroll amidst the original landscapes of Karuizawa. At the "Karuizawa Erz Toy Museum," traditional wooden toys crafted using age-old woodworking techniques from Germany and the Erz region, as well as educational toys from Europe, are on display. These exquisitely crafted toys, which look as if they could come to life, are sure to excite anyone who sees them. Additionally, there is a café called "Ruhe (ルーエ)" that offers sandwiches made with local vegetables, and a shop called "Wooden Doll Shop" that sells toys in line with the museum's exhibitions, as well as educational toys from various parts of Europe. Next to it is the "Picture Book Shop," which sells a variety of picture books and original items from both domestic and international sources, making it a perfect stop after visiting the exhibitions.

Located in South Karuizawa, this museum garden features two facilities: an art museum and a museum. At the "Karuizawa Picture Book Forest Museum," you can see precious materials such as original illustrations and first editions of picture books. The "Karuizawa Erz Toy Museum" displays traditional wooden crafts and other educational toys. There is also a free-entry café called "Ruhe," along with a "Wooden Doll Shop" and a "Picture Book Shop."