The museum houses a rare collection of 19th-century European glass alongside post-war Japanese ephemera.
The founder, Tatsuya Iwashita, spent decades sourcing items specifically from the Showa period to preserve vanishing Japanese history.
The facility contains a 'Motorcycle Corner' featuring vintage bikes that remain in restored, functional condition.
The Murano glass exhibit is designed with specific lighting to emphasize the intricate craftsmanship of the Italian pieces.
The museum incorporates a cafe space that overlooks the surrounding Yufuin valley scenery.
The Iwashita Collection is a private museum in Yufuin established by Tatsuya Iwashita, housing an expansive eclectic accumulation of 20th-century retro memorabilia and international antiques. The gallery features a significant focus on Showa-era Japanese artifacts, including vintage motorcycles, advertisements, and household goods. A central feature is the extensive collection of colorful Murano glass art displayed in a dedicated light-controlled gallery. The facility also houses the 'Bicycle Museum' section, highlighting historical developments in cycling technology. Visitors can explore sections transitioning from antique glass to heavy industrial machinery and classic motor vehicles. The building itself is an architectural mix designed to house diverse, oversized artifacts within a constrained space.
The glass gallery provides the most visually striking compositions due to the light-play on the colored sculptures.
Bring a camera with a good low-light sensor, as the glass gallery is intentionally dimmed.
Allow time to wander slowly through the aisles, as the collection is densely packed with thousands of small items.
Visit the cafe terrace after touring the exhibits for a clear view of Mount Yufu.
Do not attempt to rush through the museum, as the sheer density of the displays requires a slower pace to appreciate the individual artifacts.
Generally closed on Tuesdays, though this may vary during public holiday weeks.
Refrain from touching the glass exhibits; maintain a low volume voice to respect the contemplative nature of the gallery.
