Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum
About This Museum
Tucked away with a stunning view of Mount Fuji, the Kawaguchiko Music Forest feels like stumbling into a European alpine village that got wonderfully lost in Japan. The main building itself is a charming Swiss-style chalet, all dark wood and steeply pitched roofs, surrounded by immaculate flower gardens. Inside, it's a treasure trove of sound, where the air is filled with the delicate chimes of antique music boxes and the powerful swell of historic self-playing organs. You can easily spend an afternoon wandering from one enchanting mechanical performance to the next.
Collection Highlights
Don't miss the world's largest dance organ, the magnificent 'Marenghi', which belts out ragtime tunes with astonishing power. Another star is a breathtakingly detailed automaton of a royal palace ball, where tiny figures waltz in perfect time to a music box melody.
Visitor Information
Check the schedule for live performances on their rare instruments—the daily organ concerts in the main hall are an absolute must-see. The on-site cafe offers lovely cakes and, on a clear day, an unbeatable view of Fuji-san from its terrace.
Architecture & Building
The architecture is pure storybook charm, modeled after a traditional Swiss chalet with ornate wooden balconies and flower boxes overflowing with blossoms.
