It is not the most obvious kind of museum one would think of for Switzerland.
However, for those of us who are interested in Non-European cultures and art it is among the best in the world - so don't miss it.
There are always interesting special exhibitions. The permanent collection is fantastic anyway.
But there is more:
The museum was housed in 2 former posh residences set in parkland. A few years ago an extension was built. For people interested in Architecture this would also be interesting since (in my opinion) the extension has been done in a rarely seen sensitive way. It is sensitive to the surrounding parkland and to the historic original building. And yet - it is a building that wows you. Like a green jewel - you enter the building expecting something wonderful and you are not disappointed. Chinese scrolls, African masks, Tibetan gold statues, South Indian bronzes and, and, and.
But there is more:
Don't miss the 2nd house. It is a victorian pile and houses - among other things - a great collection of Indian miniature paintings. The stroll through the park is pleasant and you can also enjoy great views over the lake and the city.
But there is more:
The cafeteria is actually very good. Not cheap - mind you (but what is in Switzerland). They always try something a bit less bland - more exotic. And you can also get a nice "cuppa".
But there is more:
If you are a Wagnerite (and who isn't) the 1st (older) posh home built in the classical style is the "Villa Wesendonck". This is the very place where the composer Richard Wagner spent some years spongeing off the industrialist Otto Wesendonck and developing a somewhat suspicious "soul-mate-ship" with his benefactors wife - Mathilde.
Pick a day with clement weather (if you can in order to enjoy the parkland) and allow enough time. Because you will get lost in the wonderfulness of it all. read more