Museum • 5988-20 Kawayō, Minamiaso, Aso District, Kumamoto 869-1404, Japan
The Yo Shiang Ming Aso Highlands Picture Book Museum, located in Minamiaso, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture, is indeed a wonderful facility where you can immerse yourself in the world of picture book author Mr. Yo Shiang Ming's works. The courtyard surrounded by the beautiful nature of Aso offers a landscape that is a reflection of Mr. Yo's world of picture books. Pop art sculptures standing in the green grassland and a small pond surrounded by trees create an atmosphere that feels like stepping into the world of picture books.
Inside the museum, you will find original picture book illustrations of Mr. Yo Shiang Ming's representative work, 'Blue Beaver', as well as oil paintings with soft colors and meticulous touches. From these works, the world of picture books familiar from childhood comes alive again, comforting the soul. You can feel the love and reverence for nature that are poured into these works.
At the "Picture Book Cafe" on the premises, you can enjoy cute sweets in the shape of Blue Beaver. While admiring the green scenery outside the window and surrounded by picture books displayed inside the cafe, you can savor a relaxing time. The cafe also sells picture books with Mr. Yo Shiang Ming's autograph.
One of the charms of this museum is the opportunity to interact with the author, Mr. Yo Shiang Ming, in person. Mr. Yo, who occasionally appears in the museum, generously takes the time to engage in conversations with each visitor, passionately discussing art and feelings toward nature. In addition to the experience of actually holding the works, being able to hear the author's heartfelt words is a great joy.
The exceptional space of the 'Yo Shiang Ming Aso Highlands Picture Book Museum', where the rich nature of Aso and the world of art harmonize, allows everyone, from adults to children, to create unforgettable memories.