The Oya Museum, or the Oya Stone Museum, is a museum located in the town of Oya, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. The museum features exhibits that explore the history and cultural significance of Oya stone, a type of volcanic rock that has been quarried in the region for over 1300 years. The museum is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in geology, history, and traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Oya stone is a type of tuff rock that was formed by volcanic activity in the region over 20 million years ago. The rock is unique in its porous nature, which makes it lightweight and easy to carve. For centuries, the people of Oya have been quarrying the stone and using it to create a variety of traditional Japanese crafts and buildings. The Oya Museum is located in an abandoned underground quarry that was once used to extract Oya stone. The museum is built into the natural stone walls of the quarry, and visitors can explore the different levels of the museum to learn about the history and cultural significance of the stone. One of the highlights of the museum is the Oya Stone Museum Gallery, which features a collection of sculptures, carvings, and other crafts made from Oya stone. Visitors can admire the intricate details and skillful craftsmanship of the works, which range from small figurines to large-scale sculptures. Another fascinating exhibit in the museum is the Oya Stone History Room, which explores the history of the stone and its significance in Japanese culture. The exhibit features artifacts and photographs that showcase the stone’s use in traditional Japanese buildings, including temples, shrines, and castles. The museum also has a section dedicated to the geology of the Oya region, where visitors can learn about the formation of the stone and its unique properties. There is also a section dedicated to the quarrying process, where visitors can see examples of the tools and techniques used to extract the stone from the earth. In addition to the exhibits, the museum offers a variety of hands-on experiences and workshops that allow visitors to try their hand at carving Oya stone. The workshops are led by skilled artisans and provide a unique opportunity to learn about traditional Japanese craftsmanship and create a one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home. Beyond the museum itself, the town of Oya is also worth exploring. The town is located in a beautiful natural setting, surrounded by mountains and forests. Visitors can take a walk through the Oya Keikoku Gorge, a scenic canyon that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Another popular attraction in Oya is the Oya Temple, a Buddhist temple located in a cave that was carved out of the Oya stone. The temple is known for its beautiful statues and carvings, which were created by skilled artisans using Oya stone. For those interested in traditional Japanese crafts, the town of Oya is also home to a number of workshops and studios where visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase handmade goods. One of the most popular workshops is the Oya Washi Studio, which produces handmade Japanese paper using traditional methods. In conclusion, the Oya Museum is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors a chance to explore the history and cultural significance of Oya stone. The museum’s exhibits, workshops, and hands-on experiences provide a wealth of information and opportunities to learn about traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Combined with the natural beauty of the surrounding area, Oya is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in geology, history, and traditional Japanese culture.