The museum architecture incorporates 700 tons of Paju stone, sourced locally to build the perimeter walls.
The James Turrell exhibition space requires separate, timed entry due to the immersive light-based nature of the installations.
The museum's Paper Gallery is dedicated to the history and craft of traditional Korean paper, known as Hanji.
The Water Garden features a large-scale kinetic sculpture by George Rickey called 'Four Lines Oblique'.
The Stone Garden design is inspired by the ancient burial mounds of the Silla Kingdom.
The entire site was designed to follow a 'path of discovery' concept, separating the museum from the surrounding resort noise.
Museum SAN (Space Art Nature) is a purpose-built museum designed by Japanese architect Tadao Ando, integrated into the mountainous terrain of Wonju. The site emphasizes the connection between art and nature through a series of interconnected gardens including the Water Garden, Stone Garden, and Meditation Hall. The museum houses a diverse collection of contemporary art, an extensive paper gallery, and a dedicated James Turrell exhibition wing. Visitors traverse long, winding paths built of paju stone to access the main gallery buildings. The facility utilizes natural light extensively, characteristic of Ando's minimalist architectural style. The museum is located within the Oak Valley Resort complex at an elevation of 275 meters.
The red 'Archway' structure situated in the middle of the Water Garden.
Wear comfortable, flat walking shoes as the museum grounds involve extensive outdoor walking on gravel and stone paths.
Book your James Turrell wing viewing slot as soon as you arrive, as these sessions have limited capacity.
Allocate extra time to sit by the Water Garden, as the reflection of the architecture changes significantly with the sun's position.
Do not underestimate the walking distance between the main entrance and the museum buildings; utilize the full time allotted.
Closed on Mondays.
Quiet conversation is expected; flash photography is strictly prohibited inside the galleries.
