Koizumi Yakumo Kumamoto former residence
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.
Duration: 00h45min
+81 96-354-7842
Opening 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
review(s)
88 review(s)
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.
Matteo Cavalierini a year ago
Nice place with amazing person inside
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.
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).
J A (jeromeks) 6 years ago
Currently partially close to public following 2016 earthquake, the entrance is for free.