Old Asakura family House
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Kyu Asakura House Tokyo

4.4
·1k reviews·Shibuya, Japan

A serene Taisho-era mansion and its exquisite garden, offering a peaceful historical retreat near Shibuya.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Old Asakura family House

Kyu Asakura House Tokyo

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Taisho-era mansion and its exquisite garden, offering a peaceful historical retreat near Shibuya.

4.4
(1k reviews)

"A well-preserved gem offering a peaceful escape with a beautiful garden and authentic architecture."

Vertical photo
TIP

🦟 Garden Mosquito Repellent

Bring bug spray for the garden, especially in summer. Mosquitos can be quite active!

🤫 Photography Rules

Be mindful of photo restrictions inside the house. Staff are strict about personal photos.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Traditional Japanese Garden

Traditional Japanese Garden

Garden

A meticulously maintained garden with winding paths, offering a serene escape and beautiful seasonal blooms.

Taisho-era Architecture

Taisho-era Architecture

Mansion Interior

Step back in time exploring the elegant tatami rooms and unique architectural details of this historic mansion.

Peaceful Ambiance

Peaceful Ambiance

Entire Property

Experience a rare moment of quiet reflection amidst the vibrant energy of Tokyo. A true hidden gem.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

Escape the Shibuya bustle at Kyu Asakura House. This preserved Taisho-era mansion and its garden offer a peaceful retreat. Arrive early to enjoy the serene atmosphere before crowds build, especially during peak seasons.

Garden Etiquette & Mosquito Alert

While the garden is a highlight, be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in warmer months. The house interior is beautiful but photography rules are strict; respect the staff's guidance to ensure a pleasant visit for all.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light on garden
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Recommendations: "Slice of Life" Mansions/Estates to Tour (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka)

🦟 Garden Mosquito Repellent

Bring bug spray for the garden, especially in summer. Mosquitos can be quite active! Reddit

🤫 Photography Rules

Be mindful of photo restrictions inside the house. Staff are strict about personal photos. Reddit

reddit.com

The Kyu Asakura House in Tokyo, a 1919 building, is a rare example of a Japanese-style mansion from before the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923.

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Garden Paths

Wander down the garden paths; you might find a charming exit into the neighborhood. Reddit

💰 Affordable Entry Fee

The entrance fee is very reasonable, making it a great value for a unique experience. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🦟 Garden Mosquito Repellent

Bring bug spray for the garden, especially in summer. Mosquitos can be quite active! Reddit

🤫 Photography Rules

Be mindful of photo restrictions inside the house. Staff are strict about personal photos. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Garden Paths

Wander down the garden paths; you might find a charming exit into the neighborhood. Reddit

💰 Affordable Entry Fee

The entrance fee is very reasonable, making it a great value for a unique experience. Reddit

🗣️ Friendly English-Speaking Staff

Staff are kind and helpful, with some speaking good English. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Kyu Asakura House as a beautifully preserved gem offering a tranquil escape from Shibuya's hustle. The traditional Japanese garden is a major highlight, providing a serene and picturesque experience. While the interior architecture is appreciated, strict photography rules are a common point of mention.

"Definitely one of the best places I’ve been to in Japan. The garden is super pretty, very nice to see and walk around. They have some information on the plants, which I found quite interesting.
The house was also very nice, I liked seeing the beautiful exterior with the plants around it as well as the interior. It’s a bit hot in the house, but very pretty. The information provided was interesting and allowed you to enjoy it much more.
The staff were very friendly and kind.
10/10"

Esther Ardanaz

"Lovely place to visit near Shibuya station. Enjoy the gardens - beware, many mosquitoes. The house is interesting with the tatami rooms. A great way to spend 30-60 mins."

Jane N

"An absolute well preserved gem. The house itself and its garden are very peaceful, authentic and beautifully designed.

A must-visit, but if you are planning to visit the place for a photo-op, you'll get yelled at by the staff. They tolerate a few quick photos like the ones I took. But they do not let you take photos of yourself/your friend etc. for several minutes."

Eren Korkmaz

What People Like

Beautiful traditional garden
Peaceful atmosphere
Affordable entry fee

What People Dislike

Strict interior photography rules
Mosquitoes in garden

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kyu Asakura House is conveniently located near Shibuya Station. Take the JR Yamanote Line or other major lines to Shibuya Station. From there, it's about a 10-15 minute walk. Follow signs for the house or use a navigation app. Reddit

Yes, it's easily accessible by Tokyo's excellent public transport system. Shibuya Station is a major hub, making it simple to reach from most parts of the city. Reddit

Exit Shibuya Station and head towards the Mark City shopping complex. Continue walking through the residential streets, keeping an eye out for signage. It's a pleasant walk through a quieter neighborhood. Reddit

There are no dedicated parking facilities for visitors at Kyu Asakura House. It is highly recommended to use public transportation to reach the site. Reddit

Yes, you can take a taxi to Kyu Asakura House. Provide the driver with the address or 'Kyu Asakura House' (旧朝倉家住宅). This can be a convenient option if you have mobility concerns or are traveling with luggage. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is very affordable, typically around ¥100 per person. This makes it an excellent value for experiencing a piece of Tokyo's history. Reddit

Advance booking is generally not required for Kyu Asakura House. You can purchase tickets at the entrance upon arrival. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but it's typically open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check the official website or a reliable travel guide for the most current hours before your visit. Reddit

Weekday mornings tend to be the least crowded, offering a more peaceful experience. Arriving shortly after opening is often recommended. Reddit

The Japan Rail Pass is for train travel and does not cover entrance fees to attractions like Kyu Asakura House. You will need to pay the separate admission fee. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography inside the house is restricted. While some quick photos might be tolerated, they strictly prohibit taking photos of yourself or others for extended periods. Respect the staff's instructions. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed in the garden. It's a beautiful spot for capturing the traditional landscape. Reddit

The garden offers numerous picturesque spots with its winding paths and lush greenery. The exterior of the house against the garden backdrop is also a popular photo opportunity. Reddit

Drone photography is almost certainly prohibited within the grounds of Kyu Asakura House and its surrounding residential area due to privacy and safety concerns. Reddit

A standard lens for capturing the architecture and garden details is sufficient. Given the restrictions inside, a wide-angle lens might be useful for the garden, but avoid anything that draws excessive attention. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

A visit to Kyu Asakura House typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, allowing time to explore both the house and its beautiful garden. Reddit

You can explore the preserved rooms of the Taisho-era mansion, appreciating its traditional design and tatami mats. The highlight for many is the expansive, beautifully landscaped Japanese garden. Reddit

The garden has winding paths and some inclines, which might be challenging for those with significant mobility issues. The house itself has stairs. Reddit

The tour is largely self-guided. Information panels are available, and staff are on hand to answer questions. Reddit

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the garden. Dress respectfully, as it is a historical site. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities within Kyu Asakura House itself. You'll need to find food options in the surrounding Shibuya area. Reddit

Being close to Shibuya, you'll find a vast array of dining options, from casual ramen shops and cafes to more upscale restaurants offering Japanese and international cuisine. Reddit

It's generally not permitted to eat or drink within the house or garden to preserve the tranquility and cleanliness of the site. Reddit

Explore the streets around Shibuya Station for countless options. You can find everything from quick bento boxes to sit-down meals. Reddit

While there isn't a designated picnic area on the property, you might find small parks or public spaces in the wider Shibuya neighborhood where a picnic could be enjoyed. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kyu Asakura House can be a peaceful outing for families, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese life. The garden provides space for children to wander (under supervision) and appreciate nature. However, the strict photography rules inside the house might be challenging with very young children who are naturally more active and curious. Consider it more of a quiet, educational experience rather than a high-energy activity. Reddit

Tips for families:
* Bring mosquito repellent for the garden.
* Explain the photography rules beforehand to manage expectations.
* Focus on the garden as the main attraction for kids.
* Combine the visit with other family-friendly activities in Shibuya.

💰 Budget Travelers

Kyu Asakura House is an absolute gem for budget travelers. With an entrance fee typically around ¥100, it's one of the most affordable yet rewarding historical sites you can visit in Tokyo. It offers a significant cultural experience without a hefty price tag, allowing you to allocate your budget to other experiences. Reddit

Tips for budget travelers:
* Take advantage of the low entry fee.
* Walk from Shibuya Station to save on local transport.
* Pack your own snacks and water, as there are no facilities on-site, saving on impulse purchases.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Kyu Asakura House presents a unique challenge and opportunity. The garden is a dream for capturing traditional Japanese landscape aesthetics, with its carefully arranged elements and seasonal beauty. The exterior of the house against the garden is also a prime subject. However, interior photography is heavily restricted, so focus your efforts on the outdoor spaces to get the most out of your visit. Reddit

Photography tips:
* Visit during the 'golden hour' for soft, beautiful light in the garden.
* Experiment with different angles to capture the depth and serenity of the garden.
* Be patient and respectful of the photography rules inside the house; focus on the experience rather than just the shots.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into the Taisho Era

Kyu Asakura House, built in 1919, offers a rare and well-preserved window into the Taisho period (1912-1926) of Japanese history. This era was a time of significant Western influence and modernization, yet traditional Japanese aesthetics remained strong. The mansion, designed by architect Hitoshi Watanabe, showcases this blend with its spacious tatami rooms, intricate woodwork, and elegant layout, all while retaining a distinctly Japanese sensibility. Exploring its interior provides a tangible connection to the lifestyle and architectural trends of a bygone era. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the peaceful atmosphere within the house, a stark contrast to the bustling Shibuya district just a short walk away. The careful preservation of the original features allows guests to imagine life as it was for the Asakura family. The information provided within the house helps contextualize the architecture and the historical period, enriching the visitor's understanding and appreciation of this unique cultural asset. Reddit

The Art of the Japanese Garden

The traditional Japanese garden surrounding Kyu Asakura House is a masterpiece of landscape design. It's not merely a collection of plants but a carefully curated space intended to evoke natural landscapes and promote contemplation. Winding paths lead visitors through different vistas, revealing meticulously placed rocks, water features (though sometimes dry), and a variety of flora that changes with the seasons. The garden's design encourages a slow, mindful exploration, allowing visitors to appreciate the subtle beauty and harmony of nature. Reddit

Many visitors find the garden to be the most captivating part of their visit, praising its tranquility and aesthetic appeal. However, it's important to be aware of the potential for mosquitoes, especially during warmer months, as noted by several visitors. Despite this, the serene environment and the thoughtful design make it a highly rewarding experience. The garden's layout also offers a sense of discovery, with paths that can lead to unexpected, charming corners. Reddit

Photography Etiquette and Expectations

When visiting Kyu Asakura House, it's crucial to understand and respect the photography guidelines. While the garden is generally open for photos, the interior of the mansion has strict rules. Many reviewers mention being cautioned or even reprimanded by staff for taking personal photos or selfies inside. The focus is on preserving the historical integrity and ensuring a quiet, respectful experience for all visitors, rather than serving as a backdrop for extensive photo shoots. Reddit

This policy, while sometimes frustrating for visitors hoping for extensive interior shots, is a common practice in many historical Japanese homes and temples to protect the artifacts and maintain the atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to take a few discreet photos if permitted, but the primary experience should be about observing and appreciating the architecture and history. The garden, on the other hand, offers ample opportunities for beautiful photography, capturing the essence of traditional Japanese landscaping. Reddit

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