Museo d'Arte Orientale Edoardo Chiossone

Overview

The Museo d'Arte Orientale Edoardo Chiossone houses one of Europe's finest collections of Japanese art, displayed in the hilltop gardens of Villetta Di Negro. The collection of over 15,000 objects — samurai armour, ukiyo-e prints, Buddhist sculpture, and lacquerwork — was assembled by the Genoese engraver Edoardo Chiossone during 23 years in Meiji-era Japan.

Highlights

• Samurai armour: A spectacular gallery of complete samurai armour sets and weapons.
• Ukiyo-e prints: Works by Hiroshige, Hokusai, and Utamaro from one of Europe's best collections.
• Buddhist bronzes: Monumental bronze statues spanning 1,000 years of Japanese religious art.

History

Edoardo Chiossone (1833–1898) was hired by the Japanese government in 1875 to modernise their banknote printing. During his 23 years in Japan, he amassed an extraordinary collection which he bequeathed to his native Genoa. The museum opened in a purpose-built pavilion in the Villetta Di Negro gardens in 1905.

Visitor Tips

• Garden approach: Enter through the Villetta Di Negro gardens from Piazza Corvetto — the approach is part of the experience.
• Photography: No flash photography inside, but the exhibits photograph beautifully in ambient light.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.