[1][2][3] The foundation possesses one of the largest collections of bokuseki calligraphy, ceramics, and religious arts in Japan.

[4] Tsûsai Sugawara (1894–1981), a popular cultural figure in Japan, started collecting in 1943 and in 1954 established the Tokiwayama Bunko ("library") Foundation, named for the area of Kamakura where he had his private residence.

The foundation, which now is based in Tokyo, began operating solely by exhibiting and loaning its works at and to other institutions in Japan and overseas, in particular the Kamakura Museum of National Treasures and Tokyo National Museum, as well as making materials available for academic purposes.

[1][2] Sugawara's son Hisao (1923-2008, also known as Toshio), who served as director of the Nezu Museum, led the foundation for many years.

[1] According to Hisao Sugawara, his father's collection "grew rather naturally and casually, following [his] personal desire and taste."