At a Glance

Two contrasting Japanese contemporary museums 2–3 hours from Tokyo: Towada Art Center in Aomori (SANAA, 2008) and Hara Museum ARC in Gunma (Arata Isozaki, 1988). SANAA's dispersed pavilions vs. Isozaki's geometric concrete — architecture extremes in one trip.

3-Day Route

• Day 1: Tokyo → Shibukawa → Hara ARC → Ikaho onsen.
• Day 2: Shinkansen to Hachinohe → Towada Art Center.
• Day 3: Oirase Gorge and Lake Towada → Tokyo.

Tips

Use JR Tokyo Wide or JR East Pass. Best in autumn foliage. Closed Mondays at both.