1. Ken Domon Museum of Photography

① About Ken Domon

Ken Domon, one of the most prominent Japanese photographers of the 20th century, was born in 1909 in what is now Sakata City.

He is known as one of the leading photographers of the Showa era, especially his photojournalism with a unique focus on realism, as well as works that capture traditional Japanese subjects such as Buddhist temple statues from a unique perspective.

He has received many honors, including the Purple Ribbon Medal, and in 1974 he became the first honorary citizen of Sakata City.

② Overview

When Domon Ken was selected as an honorary citizen, he offered to donate all of his works to the city of Sakata.

Then, in 1983, the Ken Domon Museum of Photography opened as Japan’s first museum specializing in photography.

2. Appearance

With the green forest in the background, it looks as if it is floating on the water.

It is a magnificent yet beautiful structure that blends in with the natural surroundings.

The building was designed by Yoshio Taniguchi, the eldest son of Yoshiro Taniguchi, who was a close friend of Domon.

The design placed emphasis on how to harmonize the beautiful nature with the building, aiming to create an environment in which visitors could contemplate Domon’s world.

3. Entrance & Entrance hall

Go through the large stone wall and you will see the entrance.

Its inorganic and simple construction gives it a solemn atmosphere, almost like a monument.

When you open the entrance door, you will see a plaque at the entrance.

This is a nameplate designed by graphic designer Yusaku Kamekura.

Kamekura is known as the pioneer who established the profession of graphic design in Japan, and some of his most notable works include the official posters and emblems for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.

As such, the works left behind by famous artists who were friends with Domon are also one of the highlights of the museum.

4. Showroom

① Main exhibition room

There are directions provided inside the building.

The main exhibition rooms are shaded from natural light so that the artworks can be viewed in silence.

You can also sit back and relax on the sofa and enjoy the artwork.

In place of natural light, the ceiling is illuminated with approximately 500 electric lights, providing lighting close to daylight.

② Special Exhibition Room I

Like the main exhibition rooms, the venue is shielded from natural light.

You can enjoy wonderful special exhibitions according to the annual schedule.

③ Special Exhibition Room II

In Special Exhibition Room II, you can view the artworks and the garden.

This is a Japanese-style space with natural light and a view of the garden from the window.

The garden was designed by flower artist Hiroshi Teshigahara, and is an elegant design that makes use of the slope with stones and bamboo.

Since the building is made of straight lines, the garden was designed with curves to harmonize with nature.

5. Gallery

The gallery’s corridor is well lit, leading from the calm of the exhibition rooms to the bright memorial room.

The window overlooks the courtyard, where there is a sculpture named “Domon-san” by world-renowned sculptor Isamu Noguchi.

The flow of water represents the passage of time and the changing of eras, and is said to express Domon’s strength.

6. Domon Ken Memorial Room

From the Domon Ken Memorial Room, which faces Lake Shiratori (Lake Ken), you can see the abundant nature of Iimoriyama Park reflected on the water’s surface, and on clear days you can see Mt. Chokai.

It is a highly recommended place to soak in the afterglow after viewing the artworks.

You can watch a documentary about Domon here.

As I felt the refreshing sound of the water flowing in my soba noodles, I was touched by Domon’s passionate and energetic photography.

7. Museum Shop

There is a museum shop near the main exhibition room and special exhibition room I.

You can purchase postcards and photo books of Domon’s work.

As a memento of your visit to the Ken Domon Museum of Photography, why not pick up some merchandise featuring your favorite works?

8. Message

Finally, we received a message from Mrs. Mogi.

“The Ken Domon Museum of Photography is located in Iimoriyama Park, and one of its attractions is its beautiful building that blends in with nature.

We hope that while you enjoy your stroll, you will be able to experience the wide range of work of Domon Ken in this artistic space woven by the four seasons as an art spot.

We hold a variety of events, including mini concerts and gallery talks by curators, so please feel free to come and visit us.”

9. Basic information

Opening hours
9:00~17:00 (last entry at 16:30)

Closed
・Open everyday from April to November
・Closed on Monday from December to March
*If a Monday is a public holiday, the museum will be closed the following Tuesday
・Closed for the New Year holidays
*The museum may be closed temporarily due to changing exhibits.