A Day of Art and Seasons at Rokkatei Art Village Nakashibetsu Bijutsumura

Take a quiet step along the wooden path, ears attuned to the wind rustling through the oak forest. Look up, and you’ll see a red-brick art museum converted from a public bath, blending seamlessly with outdoor sculptures and lush greenery. Rokkatei Art Village in Nakashibetsu, created by the famous confectioner Rokkatei, is a “walkable museum” spread across a 145,000㎡ forest, featuring seven galleries and a restaurant. This guide walks you through a full-day experience, complete with a sample itinerary. Image courtesy of Nakashibetsu Village

How to Explore Nakashibetsu Bijutsumura

The classic route begins at the Tomohiro Momose Museum near the parking lot, then proceeds clockwise around the forest. The paths are lined with soft wood chips and are mostly flat, making for a comfortable walk. I rented a bike at Michi-no-Eki Nakashibetsu, rode about 15 minutes through birch-lined roads, and arrived around 10:00. Breathing in the crisp forest air, I began my journey.

Appreciating Paintings and Architecture

Majestic Mountains by Kyuichiro Aihara

Once a public bathhouse, the red-brick Kyuichiro Aihara Museum now displays oil paintings of Hokkaido’s mountains. The contrast of deep indigo and snowy white on canvas harmonizes with the cool tile walls. Resting by the second-floor window and gazing at the pond became a highlight of the visit.

A Sense of “Yamato” Through Junzō Koizumi

The Junzō Koizumi Museum presents a striking video of the Kenninji “Twin Dragons” ceiling painting and replicas of lotus-themed sliding door art. With the green oak forest in the background, the dynamic brushwork and ink flow feel even more powerful. The faint scent of washi paper gives the space a Kyoto-like ambiance, making you feel transported despite being in the woods.

Recommended Garden Stroll

A Tunnel of Japanese Maples

Opened in 2017, the Nakashibetsu Bijutsumura Garden transforms with the seasons—from vibrant spring greens to fiery fall foliage. In May, blooming Glaucidium and Cypripedium orchids decorate the path to the Masami Mano Gallery like a natural picture frame. In mid-October, the crunch of crimson maple leaves underfoot becomes a sensory part of the art experience.

Benches for Reflecting with Sculptures

Along the forest path, you’ll find wooden benches near bronze sculptures like “MEMORY” and abstract works. Behind the Northland Museum, I spent 15 minutes sitting at eye level with one sculpture, simply gazing at the forest—feeling my mind slowly unwind.

Forest Dining & Souvenir Picks

Restaurant Poroshiri

This self-service restaurant serves comforting homemade meals. The top recommendations are the “Tokachi Pork Ginger Set” (¥1,200) and seasonal shortcake (from ¥500). Window seats offer views of the oak woods and flitting oriental greenfinches. Since seats fill quickly, it’s best to claim one before grabbing a tray.

Exclusive Rokkatei Souvenirs

Only available here: bandanas printed with Aihara’s mountain paintings (¥700) and postcard sets featuring illustrations of garden flora (¥550). Complete the stamp rally and get a special gift—a clear file or a bandana—so plan your route accordingly!

Sample Itinerary

It’s quite the packed itinerary… Why not take it slow and turn half of it into a relaxing art stroll?

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