Bansui Sodō

This residence is where Doi Bansui, a poet and scholar of English literature best known for writing the lyrics to “Kojo no Tsuki,” composed by Rentaro Taki, spent his later years. Located in central Sendai, it was built in 1949 with donations from his former students and local residents to comfort Bansui after he lost his home and Approx. 30,000 books in the 1945 Sendai air raids. He lived here for about three years until his death.

Inside the one-story building, personal items actually used by Bansui, including his bed, desk, and chairs, are on display. Photos and materials also introduce information about his life and work, offering a look at how he lived in his later years.

The grounds include a garden with a bronze statue of Bansui. With stepping stones, ornamental rocks, and low shrubs, it is a precious garden preserved in the center of the city. The fragrant olive tree said to have revived even after the air raids is also a must-see.