If I told you that in the heart of Genoa there is a corner of Japan, would you believe it?
A few years ago, curious as ever, I visited the Chiossone Museum and I must admit: I had no idea what to expect.
Well, it was love at first sight!
This museum is a little hidden gem, full of wonders that tell the story of oriental art and culture in a way that enraptures you and leaves you breathless.
Today I want to tell you why you should immediately put it on your list of places to visit, even if you think oriental art is not for you. Trust me, you will change your mind!
THE CHIOSSONE MUSEUM IN GENOA AND ORIENTAL ART WHERE YOU DON’T EXPECT IT
The Chiossone Museum was founded thanks to Edoardo Chiossone, a Genoese engraver and collector who spent most of his life in Japan in the 19th century.
During his career, Chiossone amassed an incredible collection of works of art, which he then decided to donate to his hometown. This is how Genoa, a city of sailors and explorers, found itself with one of the most important oriental art museums in Europe.
The venue is immersed in the greenery of Villetta Di Negro, an oasis of tranquillity above the chaos of the city.
The view alone is worth the entrance fee to the Chiossone Museum: from here there is an incredible view over the city and the harbour, a perfect prelude to immersion in oriental art.
What is there to see at the Chiossone Museum
As soon as you enter, a world of harmony and surprising details opens up before you.
The collection includes:
- Japanese prints and paintings: works that seem to tell secret stories, with delicate colours and dreamlike atmospheres. You will feel as if you have been catapulted into an ancient Japanese home.
- Samurai weapons and armour: the dream of anyone who grew up watching films and anime! Each piece has a story and charm that will leave you speechless.
- Pottery and lacquerware: elegance reaches unprecedented levels here. Objects that make you want to redecorate your whole house.
- Nō theatre masks: enigmatic and full of meaning, they are a window on an ancient theatrical world.
Each room is a little journey and each object seems to speak to you, telling you stories of distant and mysterious cultures.
Why visit the Chiossone Museum? I’ll convince you in three points!
Here are three good reasons to visit the Museo Chiossone in Genoa.
- The Chiossone Museum is unique in Italy: you won’t find another collection of its kind so well curated and varied.
It is like a one-way ticket to Japan, without taking the plane! - The museumis perfect for all ages: whether you are an art enthusiast or simply curious, this museum will surprise you. And if you have children, it will be a real adventure for them!
- The location is spectacular: after the visit, you can take a walk in the gardens of Villetta Di Negro or stop to contemplate the Genoese panorama. An amazing experience!
Useful information for your visit
Address: piazzale Giuseppe Mazzini 4, Villetta Di Negro, Genova.
Hours: usually open Tuesday to Sunday, but always check the official website for variations.
Price: very affordable! There are often discounts for families and students.
The Chiossone Museum in Genoa is a surprise you don’t expect
The Chiossone Museum is a little gem that will make you fall in love with the charm and beauty of oriental art.
I was there years ago and still remember the emotion in front of those works so distant and yet so able to speak to me.
So, what are you waiting for? Genoa is not only pesto and focaccia: take a day to discover this hidden treasure and let yourself be surprised!
Let me know in the comments if you have visited it or if you plan to go there. And, if you liked the article, please share it with anyone you think might enjoy a trip to Oriental art.
Enjoy your visit and… have a good trip to Japan, just a stone’s throw from home!