The Vangi Sculpture Garden Museum was the first museum in Japan dedicated exclusively to the work of Italian sculptor Giuliano Vangi.
The Bernard Buffet Museum houses one of the world's largest collections of the artist's work, including over 2,000 pieces.
The garden hosts over 250 varieties of clematis, which are categorized and labeled according to their bloom season and species.
The facility was established as a collaborative effort to bridge the cultural gap between European art movements and the Japanese landscape.
The site uses a rolling topography that allows for framed views of Mount Fuji on clear days.
Clematis no Oka is a multifaceted cultural complex situated on the hills of Nagaizumi, overlooking the Mishima and Numazu areas. The site integrates the Bernard Buffet Museum, dedicated to the prolific 20th-century French expressionist, with the Vangi Sculpture Garden Museum. It features expansive botanical areas specifically curated to display a vast collection of clematis flowers, which bloom in distinct cycles throughout the year. The grounds are designed to blend contemporary architecture with natural landscapes, incorporating walking paths through wooded areas and open garden spaces. The facility also hosts high-end culinary experiences within its cafes and restaurants, emphasizing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. It serves as a regional hub for art enthusiasts looking to combine aesthetic appreciation with outdoor recreation.
The central lawn of the Vangi Sculpture Garden, where the juxtaposition of iron sculptures and seasonal blooms creates a natural frame.
Wear comfortable, slip-on walking shoes to easily transition between the graveled garden paths and the polished museum floors.
Check the official bloom calendar before visiting to see which clematis varieties are peaking during your specific month.
Plan to have lunch on-site, as the surrounding area is residential and lacks immediate alternative dining options.
Attempting to visit on foot from the nearest train station, as the steep incline and distance are physically demanding.
Generally closed on Wednesdays; check the official website for seasonal closures that may occur between exhibition changes.
