Gotosumio Museum, Kamifurano

The Goto Sumio Museum in Kamifurano, Hokkaido, is dedicated to Sumio Goto, a celebrated master of Nihonga, traditional Japanese painting created with natural mineral pigments. The museum originated as the artist's personal studio, which he established in 1987 at the foot of Mount Tokachi after being captivated by Hokkaido's dramatic natural landscape. Goto's works have been lent to the Prime Minister's official residence, and several of his paintings have been designated as national treasures.

The artist's technique involves using paints extracted from natural gems including lapis lazuli, platinum, crystal, and malachite, creating vivid, luminous works that capture light in distinctive ways. The museum displays approximately 130 works depicting scenes from Hokkaido, Kyoto, Nara, Europe, and China across different seasons. Among the collection is a monumental piece measuring 14 meters wide, demonstrating the scale and ambition of Goto's artistic vision.

Visitors can explore the permanent exhibition of large-scale paintings and original sketches, with many pieces inspired directly by Hokkaido's scenery. English audio guides are available for 500 yen, and many paintings include English descriptions. The museum shop offers prints, postcards, and catalogs of the artist's work. On the upper floor, the Furano Grill restaurant provides panoramic views of the Tokachidake Mountain Range, allowing visitors to contemplate the same landscapes that inspired Goto's masterpieces.

The museum is approximately 5 minutes by car from JR Kamifurano Station. Adult admission costs 1,210 yen, while elementary, junior high, and high school students pay 605 yen. The museum accepts major credit cards including VISA, Master, American Express, JCB, and others, with parking available for 100 cars.