World famous architect Kurokawa Kishou designed the Shiga Kogen Roman Museum with the idea of uniting building with nature. The museum, although small, exhibits a variety of art from different eras. Despite the name, it is not a display of Roman art or artifacts – rather, the name “Roman” comes from the Japanese usage of the word to imply a romantic or old fashioned atmosphere.

The main attraction of the museum is Yamanouchi born Kodama Katei’s “roman glass”, which radiates a mysterious light. The museum has some unique items on display, and includes antique kilims, Edo glass, snuff bottles and woodblock prints from the Meiji and Taisho Eras. Located right outside of the Snow Monkey Park Bus Stop, it is a great place to visit if you have some time while waiting for the bus.