Yamamoto-tei: A Blend of Cultures in Shibamata
Explore a unique blend of Japanese and Western architecture and serene gardens in Tokyo's historic Shibamata district.
Yamamoto-tei, located in the charming Shibamata district of Tokyo, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the lifestyle of a successful industrialist during the Taisho and Showa eras. Einosuke Yamamoto, founder of a camera parts manufacturing company, built the residence in 1926, and it was opened to the public in 1991. The building itself is a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese *shoin-zukuri* architecture and Western design elements, reflecting the *Taisho-Roman* style popular at the time. Key features of the house include the formal Japanese drawing room (*Zashiki*), which incorporates bright spaces, large windows, and refined natural materials. The only Western-style room, known as the Phoenix Room (*Houou-no-Ma*), boasts stained glass windows. The garden at Yamamoto-tei is designed in the *shoin* style, meant to be viewed from inside the house, creating a sense of depth and tranquility. It features a variety of shrubs, trees, a pond, and a waterfall. Visitors can enjoy matcha tea and traditional sweets while admiring the garden. Yamamoto-tei is registered as a Tangible Cultural Property by Katsushika Ward.
Local tips
- Enjoy matcha and traditional sweets in the tea room while overlooking the beautiful Japanese garden.
- Visit on a Sunday afternoon (13:00-14:00) to enjoy a live performance of traditional Japanese string music.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Shibamata Taishakuten Temple and Taishakuten Sando for a full cultural experience.
- Consider purchasing a joint ticket with the Tora-san Museum and Yamada Yoji Museum for a discounted rate.
A brief summary to Yamamoto-tei
- 7 Chome-19-32 Shibamata, Katsushika City, 7 Chome Shibamata, Tokyo, 125-0052, JP
- +813-3657-8577
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Shibamata Station (Keisei Kanamachi Line), walk approximately 8 minutes to Yamamoto-tei. Exit the station and follow signs towards Shibamata Taishakuten Temple. Pass through Taishakuten Sando, the main shopping street leading to the temple. Yamamoto-tei is located just behind the temple. Alternatively, from Shin-Shibamata Station (Hokuso Line), walk north for about 12 minutes. Keisei Line fare from Nippori Station to Shibamata Station is around ¥210. Hokuso Line fare varies depending on the origin.
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Walking
From Shibamata Taishakuten Temple, Yamamoto-tei is a short walk. Exit the temple grounds and follow the signs. The walk is less than 5 minutes and takes you through a quiet residential area. From Shibamata Station, the walk to Yamamoto-tei is approximately 8 minutes. Follow the main street (Taishakuten Sando) towards Shibamata Taishakuten Temple, and then follow the signs to Yamamoto-tei.
