A lovely little shop within the museum grounds (Photo: Sandra Isaka)

Hakone's Glass Forest Museum

A great way to 'Escape to Europe' without leaving Japan

Sandra Isaka   - 1 min read

The 'Gurasu no Mori', or Glass Forest Museum, showcases an incredible collection of Venetian glass. Although the exhibits are impressive, I prefer to spend time in the beautiful garden, which is surrounded by Italian-style buildings, and is built into a hillside. The garden surrounds a pond meant to resemble a Venetian canal, and every season is different as trees change color and flowers bloom. Enjoy the view while dining at the Cafe Terrazza, an experience that is enhanced when live Canzoni (Italian ballad) performances begin.

Sandra Isaka

Sandra Isaka @sandra.isaka

As an intercultural consultant & Japan travel specialist with 20 years in Japan, I love sharing my favorite places with others.