Former Asakura Residence

Kyū Asakurake Jūtaku

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Escape the urban hustle and bustle and step into a world of tranquility. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through a beautiful Japanese-style garden and a building that retains the atmosphere of the Taisho era.

Historic Sites
National Treasure

Tourist destination images of Former Asakura Residence(1)

Tourist destination images of Former Asakura Residence(2)

Tourist destination images of Former Asakura Residence(3)

Tourist destination images of Former Asakura Residence(4)

HighlightsExplore a precious Japanese-style architectural gem from the Taisho era
Witness a glimpse into the daily lives of a bygone era
Enjoy a tranquil garden offering respite from the city's hustle and bustle
Experience the beauty of seasonal flowers
Engage with history and culture in a unique setting

Basic Information

Address: 29-20, Sarugakucho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Search for tourist attractions in Tokyo

Access: About a 5-minute walk from Daikanyama Station on the Tokyu Toyoko Line Show route

Op.Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Until 4:30 PM from November to February)

Cld.Days: Every Monday (or the following weekday if Monday is a national holiday), and year-end/New Year's holidays (December 29th - January 3rd)

Fee: General admission: ¥100, Elementary & Junior High School Students: ¥50, Seniors (60 and over), Disabled individuals & their companions: Free

INFO: Please remove your shoes before entering the building. For the preservation of the facility, bare feet are not permitted. Socks must be worn. Slippers and other similar footwear are prohibited. Eating and drinking are generally not allowed inside the facility. The use of fire is also prohibited. As this facility is an Important Cultural Property, it is not fully barrier-free. Wheelchairs will require assistance; please plan accordingly. There is no parking available at this facility. Please refrain from visiting by car. Animals are not permitted inside the building or in the gardens.

HP: https://www.city.shibuya.tokyo.jp/shisetsu/bunka-shisetsu/asakura/asakura_00004.html

Overview

The Former Asakura Residence is a traditional Japanese-style house built in 1919 (Taisho 8) by Torajiro Asakura, who served as the Tokyo Prefectural Assembly chairman and Shibuya Ward Assembly chairman. It's a precious remaining example of a wealthy family's home from that period. The two-story wooden structure features tatami mats in almost every room, offering a glimpse into the traditional architectural style and daily life of the time. The 15-tatami-mat room on the second floor is particularly noteworthy, featuring elegant floorboards, shelves, a tokonoma (alcove for displaying art), and a coffered ceiling, indicative of its high status. The surrounding garden is a picturesque strolling garden with varying elevations. Stone lanterns and carefully chosen plants create a tranquil oasis, with seasonal flowers blooming throughout the year, offering a respite from the city's noise. The Former Asakura Residence is one of the few remaining pre-Great Kanto Earthquake Japanese-style houses in central Tokyo, offering a unique opportunity to experience the culture and daily life of that era. It's highly recommended for those seeking a peaceful escape from the city and a journey into history and culture.