Nezu Museum on Rainy Days｜Finding Serenity Amidst Greenery and History

#TokyoItinerary
Tokyo’s rainy season is endless, yet it unexpectedly adds a touch of misty poetry to the Nezu Museum. On this day, avoiding the bustling crowds, I walked alone into this art treasure hidden in the lush greenery of Omotesando, experiencing a quiet journey for the soul amid the sound of rain and verdure.

The museum’s collection centers on Asian art, with the most stunning piece being the Edo period gold-leaf folding screen—delicate landscape paintings shimmer under the light, and the gold-lined flowers and birds seem ready to flutter out of the frame. The display cases hold Chinese bronzes, calligraphy, and ceramics, allowing visitors to encounter familiar historical threads in a foreign land. Running my fingers over the glass, complex emotions welled up inside.

Passing through the wooden door at the back of the gallery, the surprise of a Japanese garden greets you. Rain washes away the dust, moss carpets glisten with moisture, and water droplets on maple leaves and pine needles sparkle, slowly sliding along the “karesansui” rock arrangements. Strolling under an umbrella along the corridor, the teahouse in the distance appears faintly through the misty rain, while a few koi fish leap from the water, breaking the tranquil ripples.

Deep in the garden, the Nezu Café is a healing stop on a rainy day. Order a hot matcha latte and watch the foam and tea swirl together in the cup, paired with a piece of Japanese-style warabi mochi, where slight bitterness and sweetness mingle on the tongue. I initially planned to casually order a sandwich, but was surprised by the thick-cut sandwich served—ham, tomato, and soft-boiled egg stacked like a small mountain, with bread crispy on the outside and soft inside. Though simple fare, it’s full of sincerity (small eaters are advised to share between two!).

As I left, the rain eased, and the mossy path reflected the museum’s eaves and fresh greenery. Compared to the brilliance under the bright sun, I preferred the poetry this rain bestowed—when art and nature meet in the rain, time becomes gentle and slow. If you’re tired of Tokyo’s hurried pace, why not step into this oasis on a rainy day and let the warmth of history and the breath of plants soothe your restless heart.

#TokyoTravel #NezuMuseum #TokyoExhibitions #RainyDaySecretSpot #BeautyOfJapaneseGardens

Post by 夏天-1 | Apr 27, 2025