Light Up the Night! 橦木館 on the Culture Path
In Nagoya City’s Higashi Ward, the Shirakabe district retains a serene atmosphere, characterized by its numerous retro buildings. Among these, the "Bunka no Michi Shumokukan" stands out as a remarkable site, seamlessly blending a garden, a Western-style building, and a Japanese-style structure, creating an ambiance that is at once nostalgic and modern, reminiscent of the Taisho and Showa eras. This winter, from the Christmas season through the New Year, the Shumokukan will host special nighttime openings, featuring illuminations that promise to enhance its unique charm.
Crowdfunding Campaign
A crowdfunding campaign is currently underway to support this initiative. The campaign, titled "We want to light up the garden of the Taisho-retro building ‘Bunka no Michi Shumokukan’ so it can be enjoyed at night!", aims to enhance the illuminations based on the level of funding achieved. The application deadline for contributions is December 10th. For more details, please visit the Crowdfunding official website "CAMPFIRE".
Spot Information: Bunka no Michi Shumokukan
The Bunka no Michi Shumokukan was originally the residence of Isaburo Imoto, a prominent ceramics and porcelain trader active from the late Taisho era to the early Showa era. The estate includes a Japanese-style house, a Western-style house, two storehouses (east and west), a tea room, and a garden. It is designated as a tangible cultural property of Nagoya City and an important landscape building.
Event Details
Dates: December 17, 2024 (Tue) – January 31, 2025 (Fri)
Closed:
- Mondays (or the following weekday if Monday is a holiday)
- New Year’s holidays (December 28th (Sat) to January 3rd (Fri))
- December 21st (Sat), January 19th (Sun), January 21st (Tue), January 25th (Sat), January 26th (Sun)
Hours: 17:30-20:30 (Last entry at 20:00)
Venue: Bunka no Michi Shumokukan
Price:
- Season Pass:
- Adults: 1,500 yen
- Junior high school students and younger: 1,200 yen
- Preschoolers: Free
- Note: Allows multiple visits during the event year. Until December 10th, tickets can be purchased at a reduced price on the crowdfunding website "CAMPFIRE."
- 1-Day Ticket:
- General: 300 yen
- Preschoolers: Free
Contact:
- Bunka no Michi Shumokukan
- Email: bunka_info@shumokukan.jp
- TEL: 052-939-2850
- FAX: 052-939-2851
Access:
- Subway: Sakuradori Line, Takaoka Station, Exit 1, 10-minute walk north
- Nagoya Sightseeing Route Bus: Me~guru, "Bunka no Michi Futabakkan" stop, 3-minute walk west
- Meitetsu Seto Line: Nigisaka Station, 12-minute walk south
- City Bus: Higashikatabata stop, 3-minute walk north
- Trunk Route Bus No. 2: Kiyomizuguchi stop, 5-minute walk south
Note: Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation.
What is Shumokukan?
Shumokukan is a notable landmark in Nagoya, Japan, known for its architectural significance and historical value. Constructed in the early 20th century, it showcases a blend of traditional Japanese design with Western elements, characteristic of the Meiji era’s modernization efforts. Throughout its history, Shumokukan has been used for various purposes, including as a private residence and a cultural venue, reflecting Nagoya’s historical development.
Visitors to Shumokukan can explore its well-preserved interiors, which include detailed woodwork, tatami-mat rooms, and gardens that offer different views with each season. The building’s calm atmosphere and historical importance make it a favored spot for both locals and tourists interested in Japan’s history. In winter, Shumokukan hosts the annual Winter Illuminations, where its gardens and exteriors are adorned with lights, offering a seasonal attraction.