Asakura Sculpture Museum (Asakura Choso-kan) preserves the 1928 wooden home and studio of sculptor Fumio Asakura — Tokyo’s answer to Rodin, who designed the building himself with two-storey studio, residential wing, koi pond courtyard and rooftop sculpture garden.
What to Expect
Shoes off at the entrance, slippers provided. Walk through the residential wing (his living quarters preserved with original tatami + furniture), then the two-storey studio with bronze sculptures of his cats and figures. Climb to the rooftop garden for a small view of the Yanaka rooftops. The koi pond courtyard between the two wings is glassed-in and viewed from inside. Allow 60 minutes.
Consider This Instead
For more contemporary art rather than early-20C sculpture, head south to the National Museum of Nature and Science in Ueno Park.
How to Get There
Getting There
From Tokyo Station
- 1Take JR Yamanote Line → Nippori Station
- 2Walk west into Yanaka → Asakura Museum
Tips
- Closed Mon + Thu. Always check before going.
- Tatami floor — no bare feet. Slippers provided; socks acceptable.
- Combine with Yanaka Ginza. 10 min walk south for the Showa shopping street.
FAQ
Worth a special trip?
If you appreciate early-20C Japanese sculpture or preserved-house architecture, yes. Otherwise visit while walking Yanaka.
How long?
60 min for the full house tour.
