Timeless Stillness: A Visit to the Ken Domon Museum of Photography

A Museum Devoted to a Single Photographer

The Ken Domon Museum of Photography opened in October 1983 in Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture—Ken Domon’s hometown—as Japan’s first museum dedicated exclusively to photography. It holds approximately 135,000 photographs from Domon’s collection, which he donated to his hometown.

Highlights include his life’s work Pilgrimage to Ancient Temples, along with series such as Hiroshima, Children of Chikuho, Bunraku, and Fubo (Portraits of Prominent Figures). These powerful images offer deep insight into Japan’s postwar reality and cultural spirit.

Architecture in Harmony with Nature

The museum stands in Iimoriyama Park, about 4 kilometers southwest of central Sakata. Surrounded by natural woods and hills, it faces a tranquil pond with views of Mount Chōkai in the distance.

Designed by renowned architect Yoshio Taniguchi (also known for his work at New York’s MoMA), the building blends seamlessly with its environment. Natural light filters into the exhibition halls, reflecting the changing seasons and enhancing the contemplative atmosphere.

Collaboration with close artists

The museum’s atmosphere is further enriched by the involvement of Domon’s close friends and collaborators:

• Isamu Noguchi (1904–1988), the internationally acclaimed sculptor, created the courtyard sculpture Domon-san and its accompanying stone benches.

• Hiroshi Teshigahara (1927–2001), third-generation head of the Sōgetsu School of ikebana and avant-garde filmmaker, designed the garden Nagare (“Flow”) .

・Yusaku Kamekura(1915–1997), a leading Japanese graphic designer, contributed the museum signage and original posters.

Together, these elements form a quiet yet resonant tribute to Domon’s legacy.

A Garden Walk Through the Seasons

Visitors are encouraged to enjoy not only the photographs, but also the architecture and gardens. The surrounding landscape offers a new experience with each season—from fresh spring greens to summer reflections, autumn foliage, and winter silence. The museum invites slow and thoughtful exploration both indoors and out.