Embark on a mesmerizing journey into a world of shifting colors and intricate patterns at the Sendai Kaleidoscopes Art Museum (仙台万華鏡美術館). Located in Akiu Onsen Town in Sendai, Japan, this unique destination is one of the few museums in the world dedicated exclusively to the art of the kaleidoscope. Visitors of all ages can explore a stunning, diverse collection, including rare historical pieces and works by renowned artists like potter Tsuji Teruko. Experience the magic firsthand with hands-on activities and kaleidoscope-making workshops, creating a perfect, interactive artistic retreat for families and art lovers exploring the Tohoku region of Japan!
What to Expect at Sendai Kaleidoscopes Art Museum
Sendai Kaleidoscopes Art Museum is close to the ending point of Rairaikyō Gorge walking trail, making it an ideal place to visit for a change after being amazed by the gorge’s natural scenery. It is a place that will challenge your preconceived perceptions of a kaleidoscope. The unusual museum features various kaleidoscopes from around the world, each differing in size and shape. From the big mechanical kaleidoscopes to the intricate ones made by various artists, you will certainly have fun during your visit, even as an adult.
The museum is quite interactive. You are allowed to touch and play with most exhibits, making this small yet well-designed attraction exciting for all ages!
The art museum is divided into three sections, with photography permitted in the first section. Among the many artworks, some seem completely unrelated to the museum’s theme. For example, there is a 1:1 scale of old couple figures sitting in one corner. It might take you a while before you figure out which part of it is a kaleidoscope (´▽｀*). Our tip is to examine the artwork in detail. The Eyepieces are sometimes found in the most unexpected places!
Some kaleidoscopes even let you become a part of the beautiful patterns!
Our Visit to the Sendai Kaleidoscopes Art Museum
When we were at the Sendai Kaleidoscopes Art Museum, the staff was very friendly and helpful. She almost walked us through the interactive kaleidoscopes one by one, making sure we knew how to enjoy the artworks and even offering to take photos for us!
The souvenir shop is available on the first floor if you wish to purchase a kaleidoscope. Another option is to make your own kaleidoscope at the workshop corner. The simplest kaleidoscope-making session will only take 5 to 10 minutes (^_-)-☆.
Tip: If you plan to participate in the kaleidoscope-making session, the number of beads to put in has to be adequate. Make sure not to pack too few or too many beads for the best patterns. If you don’t want to include too many colors, use transparent beads to form beautiful patterns when light is shone on them.
Sendai Kaleidoscopes Art Museum’s Opening Hours, Admission Fee, and Access Information
- Sendai Kaleidoscope Art Museum is open from 9:30 am to 5 pm.
- The last admission is at 4:30 pm.
- The admission fee is
- 900 yen for university school students and older
- 450 yen for children and the elderly who are 70 years old and above
- If you plan to take a bus, get off at Matsuba (松場).
- Note the express bus won’t stop at Matsuba.
- The required time at Sendai Kaleidoscopes Art Museum is around 60 minutes.
Tip: Print out THIS COUPON and fill in the details to get 10% off the adult admission fee. You can check with the staff on arrival on how to fill it in if you don’t read Japanese.
Discover Other Fantastic Attractions in Akiu Onsen
If you want to visit a hot spring town in the Tōhoku region, Akiu Onsen in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, has to be one of your top choices. Not only is this one of the top three hot spring towns in northeastern Japan, but two past Japanese emperors also loved it. This was how it earned the title of Nihon San Miyu (日本三御湯), a name bestowed on only three onsen towns by Emperor Juntoku (順徳天皇) in the early 13th century!
If the above sounds enticing, refer to our Akiu Onsen article to plan your visit!
