Imanishi-ke

Shoin

A Living Legacy of

Muromachi-Era Elegance

Tucked away in the peaceful streets of Naramachi, Imanishike Shoin is a rare architectural treasure that offers a glimpse into the refined lifestyle of Japan’s Muromachi period (14th–16th century). Originally the residence of a high-ranking monk from Kōfuku-ji Temple, the building was transferred to the Imanishi family in 1924 and has since been carefully preserved as a symbol of Shoin-style architecture—a design tradition that laid the foundation for modern Japanese interiors.

Designated as an Important Cultural Property, the house features classic elements such as tatami-floored reception rooms, fusuma sliding doors, and a beautifully maintained Japanese garden that changes with the seasons. The structure’s hip-and-gable roof and cypress bark shingles reflect the craftsmanship of the era, while the interior showcases a harmonious blend of formality and serenity.

Visitors can enjoy a quiet stroll through the rooms, admire the garden from the veranda, and even sip tea in a space once reserved for aristocrats and scholars. The house also occasionally hosts cultural events and exhibitions, making it a living space that continues to evolve while honoring its past.

Whether you're a fan of Japanese architecture, Zen aesthetics, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Imanishike Shoin offers a timeless journey into the heart of Nara’s cultural heritage.

Explore the Sights

See photos that bring Imanishi-ke Shoin to life.

Entrance to a traditional Japanese building with stone steps, wooden accents, and a garden visible through the gate, decorated with potted flowers.
A traditional Japanese courtyard with a stone pathway, a wooden building with sliding doors, and trees including one with pink flowers, under a clear blue sky.
Interior of a traditional Japanese room with sliding shoji doors, wooden furnishings, a folding screen with Japanese calligraphy, a large pottery jar, and a potted plant.
A traditional Japanese room with tatami mat flooring, shoji sliding doors, a dark wooden ceiling, and a black mural of a dragon or phoenix on the back wall.
Traditional Japanese-style room with tatami mats, sliding doors, and painted panels of a tiger and dragon.
View of a garden with trees and plants through an open doorway between traditional shoji screens, with a stone pathway leading out to the garden.
Interior of a traditional Japanese room with tatami mats, paper sliding doors, a floor lamp, wall scroll, and potted plant.
Traditional Japanese house with sliding shoji doors, wooden porch, and surrounding Japanese garden with moss and rocks.
A traditional Japanese house with a wooden porch, shoji sliding doors, a tiled roof, and a garden with trees and stones.
View of a traditional Japanese shoji screen window with wooden lattice and paper panels, illuminated by light from outside.