Founder Okada Mokichi acquired and developed land in Gora, Hakone, including the villa of Fujiyama Raita, from 1944 onwards, naming it "Shinsenkyo" (Shinsen Village), and finally built the museum, which opened in 1952. The aim was to plan the museum in a garden that would harmonize the beauty of natural landscapes with the beauty of artificial gardens. The museum is set amidst a landscape that changes with the seasons, including the "Moss Garden" decorated with moss and maple leaves, the "Stone Garden" (partially closed to the public) with its huge rock formations, and the "Hagi Road" (best viewed around September).
Access: From JR Odawara Station, take the Odakyu or Odakyu Romance Car to Hakone-Yumoto Station, then take the Hakone Tozan Railway to Gora Station, then take the Hakone Tozan Cable Car to Koen-kami Station.
