Mountain Dreams: Finding Peace and Artistic Resonance at MIHO Museum

Day 1: An Art Journey in Harmony with Nature In the early morning, I traveled along the winding mountain roads to MIHO Museum in the mountains of Shiga Prefecture. The museum is surrounded by lush green mountains, making it feel like a hidden sanctuary of art. The tunnel at the entrance is designed as if it leads to another dimension. The museum's architecture, designed by I. M. Pei, blends modern and natural elements, with each gallery harmonizing with the external landscape. The collection ranges from Eastern antiquities to Western classics, with exquisite and rich exhibits. I took my time to appreciate the artifacts, especially those from the Silk Road, which gave me a profound sense of cultural fusion. In the afternoon, the museum's restaurant served a delicate lunch made from local ingredients. Dining by the window, overlooking the distant mountains, filled my heart with tranquility and beauty. Day 2: The Serenity and Activity of Kyoto The next day, I chose to visit Arashiyama to experience the tranquility of the bamboo groves. The gentle breeze and swaying bamboo shadows made me feel like I was in a natural painting. Then, I took the Arashiyama scenic train to enjoy the beautiful mountain and river views along the way. In the afternoon, I arrived at Sagano and explored the small alleys to visit handicraft shops, selecting unique Kyoto crafts as souvenirs. In the evening, I took a boat ride on the Togetsukyo Bridge, admiring the sunset casting its glow over the Katsura River. The two-day journey was poetic and picturesque, allowing me to feel the profound charm of Kyoto through art and nature.