Shimada Museum of Arts

The Shimada Museum of Art (島田美術館) is a small, private museum featuring a rich collection of artifacts related to Miyamoto Musashi, the famed swordsman. This museum showcases a rare collection of paintings, swords, and manuscripts that offer insights into Musashi's life and philosophy. Many of these items, preserved in Kumamoto, are exhibited during special events, particularly in May to honor Musashi’s death anniversary.

The museum’s highlights include a posthumous portrait of Musashi, ink paintings by the swordsman himself, and a manuscript of his famous "Book of Five Rings." The museum also features Edo and Meiji period artifacts, as well as contemporary art in a cozy café. A visit here offers a glimpse into Musashi’s world and the opportunity to explore his legacy through unique memorabilia.