ASAKURA Museum of Sculpture

Fumio Asakura (1883–1964) was a leading Japanese sculptor active in early modern Japan (Meiji and Showa periods). In 1935, he designed and built his own residence and studio, which was opened to the public in 1967 following his death. Here at the Asakura Museum of Sculpture (also known as the Asakura Choso Museum), visitors can see his sculptures, which include his masterpiece ”Grave Keeper”. The site’s cultural value is widely recognized in Japan: the structure, with its elaborate details and fine craftsmanship, was designated as a Tangible Cultural Property in 2001, and in 2008, the premises—including the Japanese-style courtyard garden, almost entirely dominated by its pond, and the rooftop garden, a notable example of early Showa rooftop greening—were added to the national list of Places of Scenic Beauty as the Old Fumio Asakura Gardens. It’s a five-minute walk from Nippori Station, which is serviced by JR, the Keisei Line, and the Nippori-Toneri Liner.