Kyu Asakura House

Heritage building · Meguro

2

@cntraveler

"Tell me: What’s this place all about? Built in 1919, the former residence of government official Torajiro Asakura is a marvelously preserved example of traditional Japanese architecture tucked into Tokyo ’s bustling Daikanyama district. For ¥100 (¥50 for students, free for seniors over 60 and people with disabilities), you can wander through the building’s stately wooden corridors, tatami-floored rooms, and beautifully manicured grounds. The suginoma (cedar rooms) on the west side of the structure offer postcard-perfect views of the Japanese garden—particularly in the autumn, when the maple trees blaze with color. Having survived the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and the bombing during World War II, the structure was designated an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government in 2004. What’s it like being there? One of the city’s best-kept secrets, the property is an oasis of calm. It’s the perfect place to escape the crowds for an hour or two and contemplate the passing of time. Who comes here? The building’s intricately carved fixtures, clay roof tiles, and latticed ceilings will appeal to architecture and design buffs, but anyone with an interest in the way people lived in the past will find much to admire. Did it meet expectations? This is a good primer if you plan to visit the elaborate palaces, historical villas, and gardens of Kyoto. You’ll leave with a greater appreciation of Japanese aesthetics and uses of space. So then what, or who, do you think it’s best for? If you need a break from the urban intensity of the Japanese capital, this is the place. You’ll have to take off your shoes to enter the building, so be sure to bring socks (alternatively, you can purchase a pair at the entrance). Unfortunately, the lack of barrier-free access makes navigating the building’s interior less than ideal for those with disabilities." - Melinda Joe

Kyu Asakura House — Landmark Review | Condé Nast Traveler
Getty

29-20 Sarugakucho, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0033, Japan Get directions

city.shibuya.tokyo.jp

2 Postcards

See full details

More Places For You

Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel

Hotel · Shibuya

Nestled in the heart of Shibuya, this chic hotel boasts spacious modern rooms with stunning skyline views, a lively lounge, and convenient access to top attractions.

6 Postcards

Nohga Hotel Akihabara Tokyo

Hotel · Chiyoda

Understated rooms in an elegant hotel featuring a contemporary restaurant/bar & a gym. On a bustling commercial street, this polished hotel is a 6-minute walk from Akihabara train station, 14 minutes away by foot from Ueno Onshi Park and 3 km from the Tokyo National Museum. Featuring Bluetooth speakers, the understated rooms provide flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi and minifridges. Some offer sitting areas. A contemporary restaurant/bar serves Spanish and Italian cuisine. Other amenities include a gym and bike rentals. Breakfast is available.

1 Postcard

Tonkatsu Maisen Aoyama

Tonkatsu restaurant · Shibuya

Tonkatsu Maisen serves up melt-in-your-mouth cutlets in a charming old bathhouse setting, where tender pork meets crispy perfection and unique sauces.

1 Postcard

Honda Tokyo Noodle Works

Ramen restaurant · Chiyoda

Dive into a cozy spot where artisanal ramen awaits, featuring unique tsukemen and masterful chashu that make any wait well worth it.

1 Postcard

Udon Shin

Udon noodle restaurant · Shibuya

This cozy spot crafts delicious, chewy udon and crispy tempura in a tight space, so prepare to enjoy the food while waiting in long lines.

4 Postcards

Donjaka

Izakaya restaurant · Shinjuku

Nestled in Shinjuku, Donjaca is a vintage izakaya serving up over 200 specialties in a cozy, homey atmosphere, perfect for unwinding with friends over sake and delicious dishes.

0 Postcards

Takumi

French restaurant · Minato

Nestled in Nishiazabu, Takumi is a cozy one-star Michelin restaurant where artfully crafted Japanese-French dishes engage all your senses, delighting with thoughtful storytelling and exquisite flavors.

1 Postcard

DAIKANYAMA T-SITE

Shopping mall · Meguro

This stylish, two-story bookstore in Daikanyama is a cozy haven for book lovers, blending great coffee, vintage vibes, and ample workspaces.

5 Postcards

Soba Tajima

Soba noodle shop · Minato

Soba Tajima is a charming, minimalist gem known for its expertly handmade buckwheat noodles and a thoughtful selection of seasonal dishes.

1 Postcard

海の幸 翔

Japanese restaurant · Chiyoda

This cozy Tokyo sushi spot offers an ever-changing omakase menu overflowing with fresh, melt-in-your-mouth seafood delights.

2 Postcards