Ekin Museum
絵金蔵
Museum displaying 23 reproductions of late 19th-century painter Ekin's works featuring historical scenes with demons in candlelit rooms.
Gate price from ¥520
Provider prices may differ from the gate price. When you book through our affiliate links, we earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. This support helps us continue providing free, in-depth content about Japan.
Hirose Kinzo, also known as Ekin, was a late 19th century painter who fell from grace following a forgery scandal. Initially, this setback had a negative impact on his professional career, but it ultimately allowed him to explore his creativity without being constrained by social expectations. Ekin began to push the boundaries of art, using traditional folding screens as his canvas to paint dynamic scenes from Japan's historical past with a fictional twist, often incorporating elements such as lurking demons. Today, 23 reproductions of Ekin's masterpieces can be viewed at the Ekin Museum, where the rooms are lit by candlelight, adding to the eerie movement and dramatic colors of his works. For a truly immersive experience, visitors should not miss the annual Tosa Akaoka Ekin Festival in July, when the original works are illuminated by paper lanterns and candlelight throughout the streets of the town of Akaoka.
