Asakura-choso-kan（朝倉彫塑館）
The Sculptor’s Sanctuary in Tokyo’s Yanaka District
Asakura Chōso-kan is a hidden gem in Tokyo’s Yanaka district. Once the home and studio of renowned sculptor Fumio Asakura (1883–1964), the building now serves as a museum. It blends Western and Japanese design and houses both artwork and personal relics from the artist’s life.
Asakura designed the building himself, and construction took seven years to complete. Finished in 1935, the structure combines a Western-style studio with high ceilings and a traditional Japanese residence. Throughout the space, Asakura’s aesthetic vision is evident in every detail, from bamboo railings to hand-carved furnishings.
Before becoming a museum, the space also served as a private art school. From 1920 to 1944, Asakura taught young sculptors here at his Asakura Chōso Juku. He believed that training the senses was key to understanding form. To this end, students even grew vegetables on the rooftop garden, which still thrives today. It remains one of the oldest rooftop gardens in Tokyo and offers quiet views over the city.
Inside the museum, you’ll find more than 50 original sculptures, including many animal figures—especially cats. These works reflect Asakura’s belief in close observation of life. His books, pottery, and personal library are also on display, offering a full picture of his creative process.
In 2001, the building was designated a National Tangible Cultural Property. Later, the garden and architecture were also recognized as a Place of Scenic Beauty. The museum today stands as a rare example of early modern design, where art, nature, and architecture are in perfect balance.
Read more in our eBook!
Asakura Chōso-kan Garden Guide
This eBook delves into Asakura Chōso-kan in Tokyo’s Yanaka district, the former home and studio of sculptor Fumio Asakura.
Ideal for art enthusiasts, architecture aficionados, and cultural explorers.
Learn more before your visit—or revisit from home.
Gallery
Directions
How to get to the garden
The museum is a 5-minute walk away from Nippori station on the Yamanote line.
Address
- EN: Taito-ku, Yanaka 7-18-10
- JP: 台東区谷中7-18-10
Opening times
- 9:30 – 16:30 (last entry: 16:00)
- Closed Mondays and Thursdays
- Is a public holiday falling on a Monday and Thursday, the following day is a public holiday
- Closed during the End of Year Holidays
- May be closed when they change exhibits
Admission fee
- Adults: 500 yen
- Elementary to High School Students: 250 yen
Facilities & Accessibility
- This museum has very strict visiting rules. Please follow all of them.
- You have to wear socks in the museum.
- No videos allowed.
- There are strict photography rules. Check with the staff.
- No photos for Social Media if a revenue is earned.
- No food and no big luggage.
- The museum is not barrier-free.
- Lockers are available.
Best time to visit
- Visit from Mid-April to Beginning of December for best foliage.
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