I needed to kill some time near Tottori Sand Dunes, so I was browsing Google Maps for something interesting to do. That’s when I stumbled upon the Watanabe Museum, which claims to house one of Japan’s top samurai collections. Sounded pretty cool, so I decided to check it out.
I didn’t capture it in these photos, but these two shots show some of the armor displayed near the entrance. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting much, so I was really surprised by the sheer number of helmets and armor pieces on display!
The armor itself was cool with all its variations, but what I found even more fascinating were the helmets with their diverse shapes. Many of them mimicked things found in nature, while others were just mysterious and I couldn’t even guess what they were modeled after. It’s truly amazing how they collected such a vast array of them!
While there weren’t as many as the armor and helmets, there was also a collection of impressive swords, along with a truly diverse array of other artworks and crafts. It’s truly astonishing to think that one doctor amassed such an incredible collection! What’s more, you’re free to sketch or take photos of the exhibits, which apparently reflects the founder’s strong desire for visitors to “experience history and culture directly, something you can’t learn just from textbooks.”
They also focus on contributing to the local community, so they showcase works by local artists. On the day I visited, there were contemporary art pieces by Motofusa Okano on display. It was truly surprising to find a museum where you can explore such a wide range of Japanese art and culture!
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