Must-Try Foods In Pola Museum Of Art (Hakone) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Pola Museum of Art, Hakone, Japan

The Pola Museum of Art in Hakone, Japan, is not primarily known for its food but rather for its impressive collection of art, which includes European paintings, Japanese Western-style paintings, and an extensive compilation of ceramics and glasswork. The museum was founded by the Pola Orbis Group, a Japanese cosmetics company, which reflects its founder, Suzuki Tsuneshi's, passion for art and beauty. While the museum itself does not have a history rooted in culinary tradition, it beautifully integrates the dining experience with art through its in-house cafe which presents dishes that complement the aesthetic experience of the visitors.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes at Pola Museum of Art, Hakone, Japan

Here are the top 10 dishes to try when visiting the Pola Museum of Art or its nearby eateries. Some may be available in the museum's cafe, while others can be found in neighboring restaurants.

1. Matcha Ice Cream (Veg): A creamy and flavorful green tea dessert that is a must-try when in Japan.
2. Miso Soup (Veg/Non-Veg): A traditional Japanese soup that can vary in ingredients, often containing seaweed or tofu.
3. Tofu Steak (Veg): A hearty and savory grilled tofu dish often served with soy sauce and garnishes.
4. Tempura (Veg/Non-Veg): A selection of battered and deep-fried vegetables and seafood.
5. Vegetable Sushi (Veg): Assorted sushi options that cater to vegetarians using ingredients like cucumber, avocado, and pickled radish.
6. Sobu Noodles (Veg/Non-Veg): These can be served cold or hot in a broth and are a common feature in Japanese cuisine.
7. Onigiri (Veg/Non-Veg): Rice balls filled with a variety of ingredients such as pickled plum (umeboshi) or salted salmon (sans the latter for vegetarian preferences).
8. Edamame (Veg): Young soybeans often boiled or steamed and served with salt; a perfect snack or appetizer.
9. Yuba Dish (Veg): Yuba, or tofu skin, is a delicacy in Hakone and can be enjoyed in many forms, including sashimi style.
10. Kaiseki Cuisine (Veg/Non-Veg): An elaborate multi-course Japanese meal that can be enjoyed in many of Hakone’s traditional restaurants, with various options for vegetarians.

Top Famous Restaurants in Pola Museum of Art, Hakone, Japan

1. Café Pola

   Address: Inside Pola Museum of Art
   Famous Food: Seasonal desserts and light meals (Veg/Non-Veg)

2. Hakone Gora Park Tea House

   Address: 1300 Gora, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0408, Japan
   Famous Food: Matcha treats and traditional Japanese sweets (Veg)

3. Itoh Dining by Nobu

   Address: 1300-64 Gora, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0408, Japan
   Famous Food: Sushi and contemporary Japanese cuisine (Veg/Non-Veg)

4. Hakone Tent

   Address: 1320-257 Gora, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa
   Famous Food: International comfort food and local Hakone beer (Veg/Non-Veg)

5. The Fujiya

   Address: 359 Miyanoshita, Hakone-machi, Ashigarashimo-gun, Kanagawa Prefecture
   Famous Food: Traditional French cuisine with a Japanese twist (Veg/Non-Veg)

Note that while these restaurants have a variety of offerings, vegetarian options are available and should be specifically requested when ordering, as traditional Japanese cuisine often includes fish-based broths or seasonings.