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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Shiga Naoya Former Residence is a spot that preserves and opens to the public the house where Shiga Naoya, a representative author of modern Japanese literature, lived. The former residence, which remains in a quiet residential area of Nara City, is where Shiga actually lived and created from before the war to after the war, and is known as a "literary mecca" for those interested in his works and the author's private life.
The wooden building is a blend of Japanese and Western styles, and spaces such as the study, living room, and garden remain, evoking the lifestyle of the time. Through everyday items, photographs, and copies of publications, visitors can learn about the background of Shiga's thought and creativity, and the quiet and tranquil atmosphere is a charming feature. The location, surrounded by the streets and nature of Nara, also leaves a unique impression on visitors.
Highlights
- Study/Living Room: Experience the atmosphere of the room where Shiga Naoya is said to have written and read. Traces of his life remain, such as the desk, chairs, and displayed documents.
- Garden and exterior: The small garden changes its appearance with the seasons, and together with the exterior of the building, it is a great photo spot.
- Document exhibits: Learn about Shiga Naoya's character and the world of his work through photographs, reproductions of his letters, publication timelines and chronologies of his works, and panels explaining his works (exhibition content may vary depending on the facility).
- Starting point for a literary stroll: There are many historical sights of Nara in the surrounding area, and you can enjoy a stroll around the area exploring literature and history using Shiga's former residence as your base.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station.
- By foot: It's about a 15-25 minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station or JR Nara Station (depending on the location). Many hotels are also within walking distance of Nara Park, Todaiji Temple, and Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
- By bus: Take a Nara Kotsu city bus, get off at the nearest bus stop, and it is usually just a few minutes' walk from there (please check the route and bus stop in advance).
- By car: As the surrounding roads are narrow in places, we recommend using public transportation. Please check in advance as there are often no parking spaces or the number of spaces is limited.
- Note: Opening hours, closing days, admission fees, and group reservations may vary depending on the facility. Please check official information or tourist guides for the latest information before visiting.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Tour only: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour. This includes time to relax and look around the exhibits inside the building and the garden.
- If you include a stroll around the area, it will take about 1.5 to 2 hours. If you combine it with Nara Park and other historical and literary sites, it will become a half-day to full-day plan.
Nearby spots
- Nara Park (Todaiji Temple and Nara deer): Located within walking distance of the former residence, this is one of Nara's most famous tourist spots.
- Todaiji Temple: This can be visited in conjunction with sightseeing at historical sites such as the Great Buddha Hall.
- Kasuga Taisha Shrine: Enjoy the religious scenery of the ancient capital of Nara.
- Nara National Museum: A museum featuring Buddhist art and historical exhibits.
- Naramachi (Nara Town): A strolling area where old townhouses remain, with plenty of cafes and souvenir shops.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: During the tourist season around Nara Park (cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, long weekends, etc.), the surrounding roads and stations will be crowded. If you want to take your time exploring, it's best to visit on a weekday or in the morning.
- Manners inside the museum: Many of the buildings are small facilities converted from houses, so please be quiet when viewing them. Please refrain from eating, drinking, or talking loudly inside the exhibition rooms.
- Photography rules: Whether or not photography is permitted inside a museum varies by facility. In some cases, photography of exhibits or indoors may be prohibited, so please follow the instructions of the signs and staff.
- Consideration for the surrounding area: Your previous residence is often in a residential area, so parking and other nuisance behavior can be a nuisance to the neighbors. Please use designated parking lots or public transportation.
- Seasonal precautions: Take precautions against the heat in summer and the cold in winter. Indoor heating and cooling may not always be sufficient.
- Check information: Opening hours, closing days, admission fees, special exhibition information, etc. may be subject to change. Please be sure to check the latest information on the official website or tourist information before visiting.
