Kyoto Hachiku-an Taisho-Era Residence Small-Group Architecture Tour

Visit a Taisho-era merchant house
designated as a Kyoto Cultural Property

This tour visits Hachiku-an, a townhouse designated as a Kyoto Tangible Cultural Property. Normally closed to the public, it opens especially for participants under the guidance of a professional interpreter. Over 1.5 hours, you will explore the 820 m² grounds and hear from your guide about daily life and architecture in the Taisho era.

Discover architecture blending East and West

The house was built in 1926 by merchant Inoue Risuke IV and harmoniously blends Eastern and Western architecture. The Western-style hall, inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright, was designed by Takeda Goichi, known as the father of modern Kansai design.

The Japanese rooms and tea room were designed by sukiya master Uesaka Asajiro. You will experience both the Wright-inspired Western spaces and the Japanese spaces in the ohirazukuri style.

Explore from the salon to the garden and storehouse

Tour the salon, the two-story main house, the tea room, the garden and the storehouse while learning about Taisho-era aesthetics, architecture and the lifestyle of wealthy Kyoto merchants. Tea service at Hachiku-an is also provided during the tour.

※ As this is a traditional townhouse, please be careful not to bump into walls or doors inside.