Discover Original Picture Book Artwork
Inside the museum, the Little Station Art Museum presents rotating exhibitions of original artwork by picture book artists. Exhibitions change regularly, giving visitors opportunities to encounter different artists and works throughout the year.
Original illustrations offer a very different experience from printed picture books. Visitors can observe the artist’s brushstrokes, colors, textures, and details of the original paper up close. These subtle qualities can be difficult to appreciate in a printed book, making the exhibitions especially appealing to anyone interested in art and illustration.
Exhibitions have featured works by many well-known picture book artists. Even visitors who return more than once can discover something new, making the museum an enjoyable destination for both dedicated picture book fans and casual visitors.
A Warm and Cozy Picture Book Room
The picture book room at Poppo Picture Book Museum is designed as a warm, wooden space that creates the atmosphere of wandering into a forest from a storybook. Visitors can take off their shoes and relax in a comfortable environment, while books are arranged at a height that makes them easy for young children to reach.
Picture books can also be borrowed, allowing visitors to enjoy reading at their own pace in the peaceful surroundings. The facility also hosts storytelling sessions and read-aloud events led by Aridagawa’s picture book specialists, known as picture book concierges.
These activities make the museum particularly enjoyable for families, providing children and parents with an opportunity to discover books and share the pleasure of reading together.
A Unique Part of the Aridagawa Library Network
Poppo Picture Book Museum is one of the four facilities that make up the Aridagawa Library, a municipal library network operated by Aridagawa Town. Each facility has its own character and collection, allowing visitors and residents to choose a library according to their interests and age.
The central facility, ALEC, is an open and modern library built around the concept of a “café with books.” It has an extensive collection of approximately 40,000 general books and 40,000 comic books. Visitors can also enjoy coffee or lunch at the on-site café while reading.
ALEC is also known for its innovative approach to library services, including a walk-through automated book checkout system, which was introduced as the first of its kind in Japan.
The library network also includes Kanaya Library, which has a particularly strong collection of children’s books, and Shimizu Library Room, located in a peaceful natural setting. Together, these facilities support reading and cultural activities throughout the Aridagawa community.
A Center for Aridagawa, the “Town of Picture Books”
Aridagawa Town is known for its distinctive effort to create a “Town of Picture Books.” The town organizes a variety of activities that encourage children to develop an interest in books, including an annual picture book competition, storytelling events, and opportunities to meet and interact with picture book artists.
Visitors can also discover street-corner picture book libraries and outdoor picture book boxes throughout the town, where people can freely enjoy books. Volunteer groups also play an active role in organizing storytelling activities for local children.
As one of the important facilities supporting these initiatives, Poppo Picture Book Museum offers visitors a chance to experience the warm and welcoming reading culture that has developed in Aridagawa.
Explore the Poppo-michi Trail
Near Poppo Picture Book Museum is Poppo-michi, a walking and cycling trail created along the former railway line of the former Arida Railway. The trail stretches for approximately 5.2 kilometers and passes through peaceful countryside, including orange orchards and rural landscapes.
Along the route, visitors can find murals created by picture book artists as well as artistic works inspired by former railway stations. Walking along Poppo-michi can feel like turning the pages of a large picture book, with new scenery and artwork appearing along the way.
Combining a visit to Poppo Picture Book Museum with a walk or bicycle ride along Poppo-michi is an excellent way to experience Aridagawa’s distinctive “Town of Picture Books” concept.
A Relaxing Destination for the Whole Family
Poppo Picture Book Museum (Little Station Art Museum) is a delightful destination where visitors can enjoy picture books, art, reading, and nature in one place. Spend time choosing a favorite book in the warm wooden reading room, admire valuable original illustrations, and then take a leisurely walk along the nearby Poppo-michi trail.
The museum is ideal for families traveling with young children, as well as anyone interested in picture books, illustration, or Japanese cultural experiences. Visitors looking for a peaceful and relaxing activity will also find plenty to enjoy.
When visiting Aridagawa Town, consider stopping by Poppo Picture Book Museum together with ALEC. It is a wonderful opportunity to experience the gentle, creative atmosphere of a community that has embraced the idea of becoming a “Town of Picture Books.”