Discover the Japanese spirit in folk art, architecture and literature.
Komaba, just 5 minutes away from the city center, is home to one of Japan's most prestigious universities, The University of Tokyo. It is a less-known tourist spot filled with Japanese history, including Japanese handcrafts and literature, as well as architecture of both Japanese and Western-style mansions.
Different from the touristic hustle and bustle of Tokyo, you will walk through quiet residential areas to the largest mosque in Japan,Tokyo Camii. It has become a Turkish cultural center where many Turkish gather daily.
If you’re interested in experiencing some education and a range of cultures, Komaba is the place for you!
・Enjoy the historic architecture of The Japan Folk Crafts Museum, filled with beautiful Japanese artefacts.
・Relax in a tatami room with the view of a beautiful Japanese garden in The Museum of Modern Japanese Literature.
・Deepen your knowledge in modern Japanese literature.
・Purchase souvenirs such as folk craft and the University of Tokyo merchandise.
Komabano Park: A park where you can relax and spend time. It is a park that has become the cornerstone of Japan's modern agricultural development. Japan's modern rice making started here! Today it is a park flourishing nature where locals come to relax.
The Japan Folk Crafts Museum: This unusual art museum captures everyday crafts created by anonymous craftsmen. Here there are numerous potteries, textiles, paintings etc. with a rustic beauty. In addition, the building itself is unique, incorporating both Japanese and Western architecture.
Former Maeda Residence Hontei Wakan: A former samurai residence where both Japanese and Western architecture is combined. There are western elements unique to the transition period, whilst also incorporating decorations unique to Japan such as the Japanese garden.
The Museum of Modern Japanese Literature: A museum where 1.2 million Japanese literature books are stored. There is also a nice cafe inside where you can get a closer glimpse of the literature stored.
Tokyo Camii: We have seen Japanese architecture until now, now it is time to visit a mosque. This mosque was originially built by Japanese volunteers. Today the building has been rebuilt, it will surely take your breath away.
・The route will be altered slightly if you visit on the following days, as The Museum of Modern Japanese Literature will be closed : every Sunday and Monday, the fourth Thursday of every month, and the third week of February and June.
The following expenses are not included in the tour fee. Please bring extra money to experience this tour to its fullest.
-Travel expenses and entrance fees (about JPY 2000)
-Money for food, souvenirs and extra activities not mentioned in the explanation of the tour above.
In front of Hachiko (statue of dog) outside the JR line, Shibuya Station
