Miho Museum

The MIHO MUSEUM stands in the forested mountains of Shigaraki, approximately 50 kilometers southeast of Kyoto, Japan. Conceived by Mihoko Koyama, founder of the Shinji Shumeikai religious organization, the museum opened in November 1997 as a tribute to her vision of creating a sanctuary where art, nature, and spirituality converge. The renowned architect I.M. Pei, designer of the Louvre Pyramid, created this masterwork late in his career, integrating more than 80 percent of the structure beneath the mountain to preserve the surrounding landscape.

The museum's design philosophy draws inspiration from the Chinese tale "The Peach Blossom Spring," guiding visitors through a dramatic entrance sequence that includes a tunnel and suspension bridge before revealing the building itself. Pei employed French limestone, aluminum, and glass in geometric patterns that echo his signature modernist style while respecting the natural environment. The collection spans civilizations from ancient Egypt, Rome, and South Asia to East Asian antiquities, with particular strength in Buddhist art, Persian artifacts, and Chinese bronzes. The permanent holdings include approximately 3,000 objects, though only a portion are displayed at any time in rotating exhibitions.

Visitors experience a carefully orchestrated journey beginning with the museum's approach through mountain tunnels, emerging to views of the main pavilion framed by surrounding peaks. The building's architecture becomes an attraction itself, with its steel-and-glass construction creating interplay between interior galleries and exterior vistas. The grounds feature seasonal gardens, a traditional tea house, and walking paths through preserved forest. Spring brings cherry blossoms to the approach road, while autumn transforms the mountain setting with vibrant foliage.

The museum sits within the Koka city limits in Shiga Prefecture, accessible by direct shuttle bus from Ishiyama Station on the JR Tokaido Line, with the journey taking approximately 50 minutes. Visitors can also reach the site by car, with parking available on-site. General admission costs ¥1,300 for adults, with reduced rates for students and seniors.