Kyu Asakura House is a preserved 1919 residence in Daikanyama, Shibuya, built for timber merchant and Tokyo assembly councilor Torajiro Asakura. Its wooden corridors, tatami rooms and creaking stairs give a close look at an affluent home from the Taishō period. Outside, mossy paths and stone lanterns wind through a sloping garden shaded by trees, with maples in autumn and camellias in December. Set aside time for both the house and grounds, and wear socks: visitors remove their shoes indoors.
A residence from the Taishō period
Torajiro Asakura had the house built in 1919. A timber merchant who served on Tokyo’s assembly, he used the residence as a home and a place to conduct business. The building survived both the Great Kantō earthquake and the Second World War, leaving an uncommon example of a Taishō-era private home in Daikanyama.
The rooms and corridors offer a glimpse of an affluent household in the early 20th century. Tatami floors, wooden interiors and the layout of the living areas, storage rooms and master bedroom give the visit its focus. The stairs creak underfoot, a reminder of the building’s age and construction.
Rooms framed by the garden
The house sits beside a sloping garden with mossy paths and stone lanterns. Trees shade the grounds, which feel quiet beside Daikanyama’s shops and cafés. Take time to follow the paths as well as look out from inside the residence.
The cedar rooms on the west side have views toward the garden. Seasonal plants change the scene: Japanese maples bring color in autumn, while camellias bloom in December. The garden is a central part of the visit, not just a view from the rooms.
A careful visit indoors
Remove your shoes before entering and wear socks. Spare pairs are sold at the entrance for ¥100. Keep to the posted photography rules; posed pictures of yourself or companions may not be permitted. Treat the house as a historic residence and move through it with care.
Admission prices in published material do not agree, so check the current fee before setting out. The city’s facility information recommends arranging tickets in advance. Access details can also differ, so check the current arrangements if you need a guided visit.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Kyu Asakura House?
It is at 29-20 Sarugakucho, Shibuya, Tokyo, in the Daikanyama area.
Do you have to remove your shoes inside?
Yes. Shoes must be removed, and visitors need to wear socks. Spare pairs are sold at the entrance for ¥100.
When is the garden at its most seasonal?
Autumn brings color from the Japanese maples, while camellias bloom in December.
Can you take photos inside?
Follow the posted photography rules. Posed photos of yourself or companions may be prohibited.
