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Koizumi Yakumo Kumamoto former residence

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3.9 (88)

2-6 Anseimachi, Chuo Ward, Kumamoto, 860-0801, Japan

Lafcadio Hearn, who internationally introduced Japan in the Meiji period, lived in this simple but beautiful samurai residence with his wife, Setsu, for 6 months from June 1891. The house and gardens have been preserved as they were during his time here. The beautiful Japanese garden surrounding the residence was particularly Hearn’s favourite.

hourglassDuration: 00h45min

phone+81 96-354-7842
indoor
indoor
paid
paid
daytime
daytime
traditional
traditional
parks
parks

clockOpening hours

Mondays: Closed

Tuesdays: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Wednesdays: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Thursdays: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Fridays: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Saturdays: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Sundays: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

googlereview(s)

3.9
88 review(s)
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野中信子 4 months ago

I'm glad I was able to come this time because the last time I was there, some parts of the building had been destroyed by an earthquake, so I couldn't see inside. For some reason, I have a connection with Yakumo Koizumi. Several years ago, I visited Matsue's house, a temple that Yakumo often visited, and a restored building that Yakumo had visited at Misumi Nishi Port in Kumamoto. I also visited Yakumo's grave in Tokyo. Other than the house in Matsue and the house in Kumamoto, it all happened by chance, so it feels strange. It wasn't until I visited this former residence in Kumamoto that I learned about the connection between Yakumo and Natsume Soseki. It is written in this old house, so please read it. Hey, that's right! I was surprised with. Surprisingly, his grave is located in the same place as Natsume Soseki, in Zoshigaya, Tokyo, and in the same area. I think there is a mysterious connection that continues even after death.

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Matteo Cavalierini a year ago

Nice place with amazing person inside

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HIRO OS a year ago

I don't know how it usually goes, but this time I was able to enter for free. I was able to understand Yakumo Koizumi's complicated upbringing, life in Japan, etc. very well through detailed explanatory materials. Even if you are not very interested in Koizumi Yakumo, I think it is worth visiting just to see the old Japanese houses that have been beautifully preserved. Personally, I liked the sound of the small wind chimes on the verandah, which made me feel like summer.

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F Paul 5 years ago

Free admission and well maintained. Most info are in Japanese and we couldn't see the back garden as it was closed (prob due to earthquake).

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J A (jeromeks) 6 years ago

Currently partially close to public following 2016 earthquake, the entrance is for free.