Japan | Kumamoto | Natsume Sōseki Former Residence

📍Address 〒862-0971 Kumamoto Prefecture, Kumamoto City, Chuo Ward, Oe Honmachi 2-6 👉 This is the former residence of the renowned literary figure **Natsume Sōseki**, who lived here during his tenure at the Fifth High School of Kumamoto (now Kumamoto University) from 1896 to 1900. It is a pilgrimage site for fans of modern Japanese literature. ⸻ 🕒 Opening Hours Daily: 09:00–17:00 (last entry at 16:30) • Closed on Mondays (if Monday is a national holiday, closure is postponed to the following day) • Admission: Free ⸻ 🚍 Transportation ✅ From Kumamoto City or Kumamoto Station: 1. 🚋 Kumamoto City Tram: • Take the tram to [Misotenjinmae Station], then walk about 5 minutes • Or to [Suizenji Park Station], then walk about 10 minutes 2. 🚖 Taxi/Driving: • About 10–15 minutes by car from Kumamoto Station • Limited paid parking available nearby ⸻ ✅ Reasons to Visit • Natsume Sōseki is a representative figure of modern Japanese literature, known for works such as *I Am a Cat*, *Kokoro*, and *Botchan* • The residence is a traditional Japanese wooden house, preserving the original study, living room, and living spaces, offering a glimpse into his life as a writer and teacher • Exhibits include documents, photographs, letters, and historical background from his Kumamoto period, making it a must-visit for literature enthusiasts and fans of modern Japanese history • The tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by greenery, is ideal for reflection, reading, and leisurely exploration • Close to Kumamoto Gakuen University and Suizenji Jojuen Garden, making it easy to plan a cultural day trip ⸻ 📌 Suggested Itinerary Plan a "Kumamoto Literature and Historical Culture Day Tour": 1. Suizenji Jojuen Garden (10-minute walk) • A strolling-style Japanese garden with tea ceremony experiences and shrine visits, perfect for photography and sightseeing 2. Kumamoto Castle (15-minute drive) • Iconic castle featuring the main keep, historic battlefield relics, and Kato Shrine 3. Kumamoto Prefectural Museum or Kumamoto City Museum of Contemporary Art • Gain deeper insights into Kumamoto's nature, history, or contemporary art 4. Kamitori/Shimotori Shopping Streets (10-minute drive) • Enjoy Kumamoto ramen, horse sashimi, and shop for unique stationery and souvenirs