Koto Ward Basho Memorial Museum

Overview

The Koto Ward Basho Memorial Museum is a memorial museum built in Koto Ward, where Matsuo Basho spent his later years. Approximately 300 years have passed since the publication of Basho's masterpiece, "Oku no Hosomichi," and his haiku continues to be loved worldwide. The museum introduces Basho's life, works, and the culture and landscapes that influenced him through valuable materials and exhibits. For example, you can see brushes and inkstones Basho actually used, and first editions of his poetry collections. A corner recreating landscapes Basho loved allows you to experience the world of his haiku. You can also visit Basho's haiku monuments and the site of his former home. These haiku monuments are located where Basho actually composed poems, or were erected to commemorate him. While not his birthplace, the site of his former home is where he spent his childhood. Visiting these sites allows for a deeper understanding of Basho's life. A visit to the Basho Memorial Museum offers a chance to immerse yourself in the world of Basho's haiku and experience Japanese culture. His haiku expresses the beauty of nature and the human heart, as well as the transience of life. Why not experience Japanese culture and customs through Basho's haiku?