Stone Museum in Ashino, Nasu

A Stunning Stone Space Designed by Kengo Kuma

This modern art museum was created by transforming an old rice stone warehouse, redesigned by internationally acclaimed architect Kengo Kuma. The building itself is a beautiful space composed of stone, water, and light, making it not only a cultural site but also a popular photo spot. In winter, as the daylight fades, the lights from each building—divided by a flowing waterway—create a magical and dreamy atmosphere, offering a breathtaking seasonal view.

Kengo Kuma (born 1954) is one of Japan’s most celebrated architects, known for projects such as the Nezu Museum in Aoyama, Tokyo, and GINZA KABUKIZA. More recently, he gained worldwide recognition for designing the new National Stadium in Tokyo. His architectural style, which features natural materials and lattice designs, is highly praised both in Japan and abroad.

After a renewal in November 2024, the museum reopened with several new features. A café now adjoins the entrance, offering drinks brewed by a professional barista using an espresso machine. The revamped “Stone Lounge” invites visitors to relax while enjoying furniture designed by Kengo Kuma. The roof of the main gallery—the largest of the museum’s three historical stone warehouses—has also been renovated using Ashino stone, the same material as the building’s exterior. The entrance area is freely accessible without an admission ticket, allowing guests to enjoy shopping or a casual drink even without entering the exhibition area.

Location Map

Basic Information

Address	2717-5 Ashino, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture
Telephone Number	0287-74-0228
Website	https://stonemuseum.jp/
Business Hours	– Museum: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM) – Café: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM (subject to temporary closures)
Days Closed for Business	Tuesdays and Wednesdays (open on public holidays), year-end and New Year holidays, and occasional unscheduled closures
Price	– Adults: ¥1,000 (¥900 for groups of 15 or more) – Elementary & Junior High School Students: ¥500 (¥400 for groups) – Free for children under school age
DIRECTIONS	From JR Kurodahara Station (Tohoku Main Line), take the Kanto Bus bound for Iono and get off at “Ashino Nakamachi.” The museum is about a 5-minute walk from the bus stop.
Map Code	779 245 450*01

Nasu Area

The Nasu area, in the northeastern part of the prefecture, is famous for the imperial villa located there, and is one of Japan’s premier resort areas with its expansive highlands. The climate has allowed the development of a thriving dairy industry, and while there, you can visit a dairy farm that is open to tourists and offers delicious sweets made from milk, such as soft-serve ice cream and cheesecake. There are also many family-friendly facilities like Safari Park, amusement parks, and hot spring facilities like Shiobara Onsen.