Kawai Kanjiro's House

I think this was our favorite museum spot on our trip. This house was gorgeous and Kawai’s sculptures and ceramics were amazing to see. The best part was seeing his enormous kilns! The friendly neighborhood cat also hangs out here which was so cute.

This museum is a must see in Kyoto!! Only a 5 minute walk from the National Museum you’ll find this beautiful little place. You can take your time to walk around this glorious traditional Japanese house, celebrating the life of the artist Kawai Kanjiro.

Wow. The most intimate and educational experience I had in Kyoto. I was really tired of going to all the temples just to check a box and this museum is very much the extreme opposite. Shoes are off, incense is lit, and your mind is present. It was amazing to be able to walk through such an old Japanese space who belonged to an amazing artist. Couldn’t recommend any more. I would’ve spent all day there if I could. The cat is adorable too. Very sweet, just lets you pet him. Go in the morning when they open. It’s very quiet then. I was there from 10-12 and by 12 it was busy.

Love the place, I bet it’s every artists’ dream to have a house & atelier like this. The cat is also very lovely. However I was very worried that there is a lily flower on the second floor when the cat is just roaming around the house freely. Lilies are highly toxic to cats and can cause severe kidney damage or even death simply being in the same room. Please I beg you to search for non-toxic flowers and plants for cats and replace them. Tulips and Lilies are the worst for cats. The cat is super friendly, an exeptional host. Other than the flower, the place is so aesthetically pleasing and has rich history. The work of the artist is really beautiful.

Kawai Kanjuro’s House in Kyoto is an absolute must-visit. The atmosphere and energy are incredible, offering a deep sense of serenity and tranquility. The artist’s works are stunning—especially the climbing kiln (noborigama), which every ceramic art enthusiast should see. Entrance fee: ¥900

Nice place to visit to see how a pottery craftsman lived years ago. True Japanese style home, but a bit larger than average home would be. Maybe a bit expensive for what you see, but the experience is worth a little more too. 900yen for 12 and older. 500 yen if students have school ID with them.

What a spectacular place to see a house and workspace that used to be filled with much energy and amazing craftsmanship. Highly recommend!

Entrance until 4.30pm, close at 5pm. Great ceramics, calligraphy, chair collection.