Namikawa-ke is Kyoto’s Hidden Cloisonné Treasure

The Namikawa-ke Residence and Garden is today a small but fascinating museum dedicated to the works of Namikawa Yasuyuki, one of Japan’s most celebrated masters of cloisonné enamel. This historic residence in Kyoto was once both his home and workshop. After gaining international recognition at the World Fairs in Paris in 1878 and 1889, Namikawa welcomed many foreign visitors, who were eager to see his exquisite creations up close.

To make his guests comfortable, Namikawa designed his residence with a few unusual features for the time: sliding doors higher than the traditional standard and glass panels instead of paper shōji screens, reflecting a sensitivity to Western expectations. These details not only show his forward-thinking spirit but also his ability to bridge Japanese craftsmanship with global audiences.

Behind the house lies the Namikawa-ke garden, a small but beautifully maintained Japanese garden. Carefully arranged stones, seasonal greenery, and thoughtful design create a peaceful setting that contrasts with the brilliance of the enamel works displayed inside. Though modest in size, the garden provides visitors with a quiet pause, offering a glimpse into the refined aesthetic sense of a Meiji-era artist who skillfully balanced innovation with tradition.

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Gallery

  • Garden of the Namikawa House in Kyoto by Real Japanese Gardens
  • Garden of the Namikawa House in Kyoto by Real Japanese Gardens

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    Directions

    How to get to the garden

    From Kyoto station, take the city bus number 100 and get off after 7 stops at Higashiyama-Sanjo (東山三条).
    Walk east for around 300 meters. After you cross the small stream, turn left and walk one block north. The museum should be on your left side.
    View Google Map (Google Website)

    Address

    • JP: 東山区三条通北裏白川筋東入堀池町388
    • EN: Higashiyama-Ku, Sanjo-dori, Urajiro-Kawasuji Horiike-cho 388

    Official Website

    Opening times

    10:00–16:00

     

    Admission fee

    Entrance fee: 1000 Yen

    Facilities & Accessibility

    It's an old Japanese house so probably not barrier free.

    Best time to visit

    The Museum is worth a visit all year round.

    Visit .

    Map

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