Guide
Jakushu Itteki Bunko is a comprehensive literary museum established by the famous author Tsutomu Mizukami, a native of Fukui Prefecture, to promote his literary and artistic endeavors. Opened in 1985 and currently managed by the NPO Itteki no Sato, the facility consists of several specialized areas: the Main Building, the Bamboo Puppet Hall, the Kuruma-isu Theater, and the Rokkakudo cafe/shop. It offers a profound way to experience the worlds of literature, fine art, and traditional bamboo puppetry.
This facility serves as a cultural hub that Tsutomu Mizukami built using his own resources in his birthplace, Wakasa (the present-day area of Oi Town, Fukui). Mizukami led the "Wakashu Ningyo-za" to promote artistic activities such as Bunraku using bamboo puppets. The architecture itself is highly regarded; the Main Building, completed in 1984, received the Chubu Architecture Award for its exceptional design. The facility is more than just an exhibition space; it acts as a center for the preservation and promotion of regional culture and art.
The facility features a variety of exhibition spaces. The first floor of the Main Building houses a library containing approximately 20,000 precious volumes, including the personal collection of Tsutomu Mizukami, and includes a special "Bunna Room" for children. Additionally, the Special Exhibition Room showcases works by painters who were close associates of Mizukami, such as Fuke Akino, Shinichi Saito, Koku-ta Suda, and Jun Watanabe.
The Bamboo Puppet Hall displays the exquisite craftsmanship of approximately 60 bamboo puppet bodies and 250 heads related to the Wakashu Ningyo-za, which Mizukami presided over. The Kuruma-isu Theater serves as a stage for regular bamboo puppet Bunraku performances, offering a beautiful view of the surrounding bamboo grove through its picture windows. The harmonious blend of architecture and nature is further enhanced by the gardens, the Rokkakudo, and the former Kayatake Hall.
The facility features a photo gallery and gardens where visitors can enjoy the changing scenery of the four seasons. The view of the bamboo grove behind the Kuruma-isu Theater stage is particularly striking and changes with the seasons. In October, the atmosphere is especially significant as events related to the "Kien-ki" (the memorial service for Tsutomu Mizukami) are held. During daylight hours, visitors can fully appreciate the way natural light interacts with the beautiful architecture.
For a deeper cultural experience, the facility offers traditional workshops involving bamboo. These include classes in bamboo paper-making, bamboo brush-making, Magatama (comma-shaped bead) making, and even fire-making experiences. These workshops provide a rare opportunity to touch upon traditional Japanese craftsmanship in a tranquil environment.
The facility is nestled in the nature-rich environment of Oi Town, Fukui. The surrounding landscape is peaceful and evocative of the world found in Tsutomu Mizukami's literature, making it an ideal place for a quiet stroll through history and nature.
The facility is primarily a wooden structure. While some accessibility features like ramps are available, please note that some areas may have steps. Visitors are asked to dress modestly and avoid clothing that might accidentally touch the exhibits. Photography may be restricted in certain exhibition areas. For refreshments at the Rokkado or for participating in workshops, please ensure you have cash on hand. English-language support and signage are limited.