Picasso Pavilion (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Picasso Pavilion?
What makes it 52% Kids-Friendly: Children are admitted and strollers offered, yet the fragile art, no-touch rules, and absence of hands-on exhibits mean parents must closely supervise and boredom can build quickly.
Positives:
- Free stroller rental: Pick up a stroller at the main desk to save little legs when needed.
- Air-conditioned galleries: Keeps kids comfortable on hot days and shelters from rain.
- Clear English labels: Helps you guide children through Picasso’s works without a guide.
Challenges:
- No hands-on exhibits: The pavilion shows only non-tactile artworks, which may bore younger kids.
- Short attention spans: Children may lose interest after 20–30 minutes in a quiet gallery.
- Narrow corridors: Busy times make stroller or group movement inside tricky.
What is Picasso Pavilion?
- A dedicated indoor gallery at the Hakone Open-Air Museum showcasing over 300 works by Pablo Picasso, including paintings, ceramics and rare gemmails
- Opened in 2013 as the first permanent Picasso exhibition space in Asia, the pavilion presents a chronological display of Picasso’s artistic phases across two floors
- Designed by Kengo Kuma & Associates, the pavilion employs a minimalist glass-and-steel structure that integrates seamlessly with the surrounding forest landscape
What is so special about Picasso Pavilion for with kids?
- Quick art scavenger hunt to engage kids
- Spot Picasso’s rare gemmails for visual wow
- Refresh in the hot-spring footbath after touring
- Burn energy at the adjacent knitted-net playground
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: 2-3 hours gives time for a quick art walk, a footbath break, and play at the outdoor net structure without tiring kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Picasso Pavilion
Art Scavenger Hunt:
Spot shapes, colors and two rare gemmails inside the pavilion.
Tip: Give each child a simple checklist before entering to keep them focused for 15–20 minutes.
View the Gemmails:
Find Picasso’s two rare glass mosaics on the first floor.
Tip: Head straight to the bright gemmails near the entrance; their colors grab kids’ attention.
Hot-Spring Footbath:
Soak tired feet at the free footbath outside the café after your art visit.
Tip: Buy towels for 100 yen each from the vending machine and let kids cool their toes.
Woods of Net Playground:
Climb and jump in the knitted-net play structure in the outdoor art garden.
Tip: Go there immediately after the pavilion visit; it’s open in all weather and keeps kids active.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Picasso Pavilion
- Arrive at opening: Beat the crowd for quieter galleries and easier stroller access.
- Split indoor and outdoor time: Alternate a 20-minute art walk with 20 minutes at the net playground.
- Download activity sheets: Use the museum’s kid-friendly art bingo from their website.
- Book tickets online: Save 200 yen per adult and 200 yen per child on admission.
Reviews of Picasso Pavilion
gevs
This beautiful structure houses the artworks of Pablo Picasso. I love the stain glass windows as you enter the lobby. The building has 2 stories. It is divided into several sections. Each section showcased the works of Picasso such as paintings, sculptures and also some history on the life led by the late artist. It is the only indoor exhibit in this open air musuem. What a lovely place to meander...
Jamil Ahmad
Decent collection, inspiring for art lovers with quite a few collectibles from Picasso. The whole place is quite good to visit with family including kids…some play areas, cafe with basic food and coffee, all make it a nice place for half day visit if you are in the area. Accessible with baby car and clean toilets inside.
CHINESE CRESTED
This display is at the outdoor museum. A great place to view Picasso's talent. A nice place to take the children to start their education in art.
Konstantin Tarasevic
Cool museum - on a good day its also fun and interesting for kids, our 8 year old old son enjoyed the art and it made his brain a little brighter too.
Rob
Perfect escape from the city. Beautiful, relaxing, and plenty to do to spend the day.
When is the best time to visit Picasso Pavilion (Hakone, Japan)?
Summer’s air-conditioned gallery beats the heat. In autumn, enjoy fiery foliage through the windows. Winter makes the footbath extra cozy. On rainy days, stay dry inside the pavilion.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Admission for 2 adults + 2 children | JPY 5,600 |
| Footbath towels (4×100 yen) | JPY 400 |
| Gelato snacks | JPY 2,400 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 8,400 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Picasso Pavilion
Address: Japan, 〒250-0407 Kanagawa, Ashigarashimo District, Hakone, Ninotaira, １１２１ 彫刻の森美術館内
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About Picasso Pavilion
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 460-82-116110 BEST nearby Activities
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