So yesterday I finally dragged myself out early to hit up the Kyu Asakura House. You know how it is – Tokyo’s got endless spots, but this one kept popping up. Figured, “Why not?” Just gonna lay out how it went, warts and all.
The Hunt Starts
First hurdle? Actually finding the darn place. Grabbed the Tokyu Toyoko Line, hopped off at Daikan-yama Station like everyone suggests. Easy enough so far. But then… Tokyo streets. Tiny signs, random alleys. Pulled up Google Maps – walked right past the entrance twice! It’s tucked behind some apartment buildings like it’s hiding. Seriously, almost gave up and headed for coffee.
Getting In
Finally spotted the small wooden gate. Felt kinda smug. Paid the entry fee at this tiny booth – super quick, just like blogs said. Pro tip: Bring yen coins or small bills; the machine gobbled my 1000-yen note like it was starving. Shoes off at the entrance, shoved ’em into those plastic shoe lockers they provide. Felt weird walking around just in socks indoors.
Inside the Time Capsule
Okay, the main house blew my socks off (well, they were already off). Dark wood everywhere, super intricate carvings. Slid open one of those heavy paper doors and BAM – tiny rock garden staring back at me, perfectly framed. Didn’t expect that! Wandered around these narrow corridors:
- The reception rooms: Huge and kinda empty, could practically see old-school politicians bowing.
- Stepping down to the garden: Nearly tripped on the wooden steps – they’re steep! Felt the cool air hit my face outside.
- That central garden view: Totally worth it. Moss like a green carpet, funky rocks, tall trees blocking the city noise. Just stood there for like five minutes trying not to think about work emails.
Garden Shenanigans
Tried walking the little garden paths. Reality check: Smaller than it looks in pictures! Tripped over a root ’cause I was too busy looking up at the trees. One camellia tree was massive and covered in these thick, waxy leaves. Saw some Japanese folks whispering – think they caught me almost biting the dust.
Wrapping It Up
Whole visit took maybe an hour. Grumbled a bit about the entry fee being slightly steep for the size, but honestly? Sitting quietly in the main room overlooking the garden, feeling the old wood under your hands… that weirdly quiet vibe hit different. Felt less rushed than those giant Tokyo attractions. Wandered back out, shoved my feet into shoes, and got instantly sucked back into Tokyo’s chaos.
Was it worth the slight morning struggle? Yeah. Felt like I stole an hour of weird old Tokyo calm. Would I go back? Maybe not tomorrow, but if someone asked for a chill, kinda hidden spot off the usual tourist grind? Kyu Asakura House, easy.
