Kanagawa Prefectural Kanazawa Bunko

Overview

In 1275, during the early Kamakura period, Noritojo Sanetoki established Kanazawa Bunko in Kamakura. Sanetoki was one of the most outstanding figures among the Hojo clan, the regents of the Kamakura Shogunate. He was deeply versed not only in politics and military affairs but also in academics and the arts. Kanazawa Bunko was built to preserve the vast collection of books and documents he had amassed. Although it declined after the fall of the Kamakura Shogunate, it was revived during the Edo period and donated to Kanagawa Prefecture in the Meiji period. It then opened as the Kanagawa Prefectural Museum in 1935 and continues to operate today. Kanazawa Bunko houses numerous precious ancient documents, art objects, and archaeological materials designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. Among the most famous are the "Kawachi-hon" copy of The Tale of Genji and the "Mongol Invasions Picture Scroll." These invaluable materials offer profound insights into the culture and history of the Kamakura period. A visit to the adjacent Shomyoji Temple is highly recommended. This temple was built by Noritojo Sanetoki alongside Kanazawa Bunko and boasts precious buildings reflecting the architectural style of the Kamakura period. Exploring both Kanazawa Bunko and Shomyoji Temple provides a deeper understanding of the culture and history of the Kamakura period. Kanazawa Bunko is a facility that will delight history buffs and anyone interested in the culture and history of the Kamakura period. If you're visiting Kamakura, be sure to visit Kanazawa Bunko!