The former home of female novelist Uno Chiyo. Restored almost exactly as it was in 1974, the house features a beautiful Japanese garden overflowing with plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, and other seasonal flowers, creating an atmosphere of serenity and beauty.
Historic Sites
Highlights
Almost exact restoration of novelist Uno Chiyo's former home
Beautiful Japanese garden with seasonal flowers
Tea ceremonies held in memory of Uno Chiyo
Cherry tree descended from the model of "Usuzumi no Sakura"
Preserved by the volunteer efforts of the NPO "Uno Chiyo's Former Home"
●By Car or Foot
• From Kuka:
Turn left at the T-intersection in front of BIG MOTOR Iwakuni store on Yamaguchi Prefectural Road 15 (Kinmei Road).
• From Kintai Bridge:
Turn right at the crossroads near the Iwakuni Bus "Kawanishi" bus stop on Yamaguchi Prefectural Road 112.
※There is a signpost on the utility pole to the right of the crossroads.
• From Minami-Iwakuni:
Turn right at the T-intersection in front of BIG MOTOR Iwakuni store on Yamaguchi Prefectural Road 15 (Kinmei Road), then turn left at the crossroads near the Iwakuni Bus "Kawanishi" bus stop on Yamaguchi Prefectural Road 112.
※There is a signpost on the utility pole to the left of the crossroads.
●By Train
7-minute walk from Kawanishi Station on the JR Iwakuni Line and the Kinki Railway Kawanishi Kiyryu Line.
※Signage is available at and around the station. Show route
Op.Hours
10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Cld.Days
Tuesdays, Obon Festival, Year-end and New Year holidays
Fee
Adults: ¥300, Children: ¥150
INFO
※Closed on Tuesdays.
※Please note that the site may be closed unexpectedly due to circumstances. We recommend contacting us in advance before your visit.
Uno Chiyo was a female novelist born in Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, in 1897 (Meiji 30). She produced numerous masterpieces, including "Ohan," serialized in Chuo Koron in 1947-1948 (Showa 22-23). Her former home, located along the old Sanyo Highway, a 20-minute walk from Kintai Bridge, was restored almost exactly as it was in 1974 (Showa 49) by Uno Chiyo herself. Visitors can glimpse into her daily life and experience the world of her literature.
The house's garden is a beautiful Japanese garden adorned with plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, maple leaves, and moss. The abundance of seasonal flowers creates an atmosphere of serenity and beauty. Cherry blossoms abound in spring, and the autumn leaves are breathtaking, making it a calming destination year-round. Tea ceremonies are held in Uno Chiyo's memory, and a cherry tree descended from an ancient tree in Neo Village, Gifu Prefecture—the model for her work "Usuzumi no Sakura" (Light Ink Cherry Blossoms)—is also planted here. This makes it a worthwhile visit for literature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
The former home is now preserved through the volunteer efforts of the NPO "Uno Chiyo's Former Home." Please note that it may be closed on certain days, so please contact us in advance before visiting.
A parking lot was established in March 2019 (Heisei 31), making it more accessible to visitors.