[The Garden of Fine Arts Kyoto]
Located just outside Exit 3 of Kitayama Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line, the Garden of Fine Arts Kyoto is the world's first “painting garden” where visitors can admire durable ceramic plate reproductions of famous paintings outdoors, faithfully recreating the original works' beauty. Designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, it is a truly unique place where visitors can enjoy timeless masterpieces within a space of beauty woven from concrete, water, and greenery.
The Garden of Fine Arts Kyoto houses a total of eight ceramic plate reproductions, including Monet's “Water Lilies: Morning,” Michelangelo's “The Last Judgment,” and Leonardo da Vinci's “The Last Supper.”
Ceramic plate reproductions faithfully recreate the original artwork's colors and dimensions on large ceramic plates. Unlike paintings on paper or canvas, their colors do not fade over time; it is said they will retain their vibrancy even after 2000 years. The process involves decomposing the original painting's colors, printing them onto transfer paper, then transferring and firing the image onto the ceramic plate. After repeated retouching and rigorous inspection, the finished ceramic plate painting is reproduced at actual size. This allows visitors to experience the same power and realism as viewing the original masterpiece.
Slowly strolling through the three-tiered corridor while appreciating the masterpieces. As you descend the slope leading down to the second basement level, glancing sideways at the waterfall flowing along the walls encircling the entire facility and the water surface shimmering in the light, the expression of the paintings subtly changes depending on your viewing spot and perspective shifts—whether standing or sitting on a bench. Though the day we visited was cloudy, the slightly subdued light beautifully illuminated the ceramic paintings' colors with restraint. It struck us as a wonderful space where you can experience the unique charm of any weather or season.
Walking through the minimal yet powerful concrete architecture while viewing masterpieces outdoors. When visiting Kyoto in autumn, why not try a slightly unusual art experience at the world's first painting garden?
The Garden of Fine Arts Kyoto
https://kyoto-toban-hp.or.jp/
Showroom Information
https://www.shokunin.com/en/showroom/
References
https://www.kyoto-museums.jp/museum/north/1022/
https://o-museum.or.jp/pages/46/
