Chochikukyo (Former Koji Fujii Residence)

Overview

Chochikukyo is a modern architectural masterpiece built in 1928 by architect Koji Fujii as his own residence, showcasing a harmonious blend of Japanese and Western styles. Koji Fujii dedicated his research to designing homes suited to Japan's climate and environment, and Chochikukyo embodies the culmination of this research. The most striking feature of Chochikukyo is its integration of traditional Japanese architectural styles with cutting-edge environmental engineering technology of the time. For instance, the ingenious design incorporating earthen pipes under the floor to bring fresh air from the garden into the house was revolutionary for residential architecture at the time. The living room further exemplifies this innovative approach, seamlessly merging a traditional Japanese space with a raised tatami platform (ko-agari) and a modern Western-style living area with chairs, offering a glimpse into the progressive residential design of the era. Chochikukyo not only holds a crucial position in the history of Japanese architecture but also continues to offer valuable lessons from its advanced design philosophy. Its design principles, for example, are highly relevant to contemporary environmental concerns. Furthermore, Chochikukyo serves as a precious historical resource providing insights into the living conditions of Japanese homes during that period. Chochikukyo stands as a significant site for understanding Japanese architectural and cultural history, as well as for envisioning the future of modern residential design. We highly recommend a visit to experience its unique charm firsthand.