Kanazawa Nishi Chaya Museum

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Kanazawa Nishi Chaya Museum

A museum showcasing the life of author Seijiro Shimada, featuring a reconstructed traditional tearoom reminiscent of his era.

Last update :
Head Editor : Kanazawa City

This historical museum is located in Nishi Chaya District, one of Kanazawa's three famous teahouse districts. Built on the site of "Yoshiyonero," the teahouse where acclaimed Taisho-era author Seijiro Shimada spent his childhood, the building was featured prominently in his semi-autobiographical novel, "Chijo (On the Earth)."

On the museum’s first floor, visitors can explore exhibits showcasing rare documents and detailed explanations about Shimada's turbulent life, which ended prematurely at age 31. On the second floor, a vibrant vermilion-walled room showcases traditional musical instruments like shamisen and drums, along with elegant golden folding screens. Additionally, a luxurious tea room has been carefully recreated, immersing visitors in the ambiance of the Taisho period.

The museum also hosts the "Maido-san" Kanazawa Volunteer Guides, who provide insightful tours around Nishi Chaya and its surroundings without reservations when available.

Highlights

  • Featured in "Chijo (On the Earth)," a notable work by author Seijiro Shimada.
  • Learn about the turbulent life of Taisho-era author Seijiro Shimada.
  • Features faithfully recreated traditional rooms and a tea room evoking the atmosphere of Shimada’s era.
  • Volunteer guides available on-site, offering spontaneous guided tours of the surrounding area (subject to availability).

Photos

  • Charming two-story wooden building; geisha can occasionally be spotted passing by in the evening.

    Charming two-story wooden building; geisha can occasionally be spotted passing by in the evening.

  • Features clearly presented exhibits about author Seijiro Shimada’s life and works.

    Features clearly presented exhibits about author Seijiro Shimada’s life and works.

  • Offers a glimpse of authentic period décor and furnishings (viewing only; rooms are not open for entry).

    Offers a glimpse of authentic period décor and furnishings (viewing only; rooms are not open for entry).

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Details

Name in Japanese
金沢市西茶屋資料館
Postal Code
921-8031
Address
2-25-18 Nomachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa
Telephone
076-247-8110
Closed
Open every day
Hours
9:30am - 5:00pm
Admission
Free
Directions
(1) From JR West/IR Ishikawa Railway Kanazawa Station, take the Kanazawa Flat Bus (Nagamachi Route) to "Nishi Chaya District" stop, then walk about 2 minutes.
(2) From JR West/IR Ishikawa Railway Kanazawa Station, take the Kanazawa Loop Bus (Jokamachi Kanazawa) or Hokuriku Railway Bus to "Hirokoji" stop, then walk about 3 minutes.
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)