Hasso-an (Former Shana-in Bousen)

Overview and Charm

Hasso-an is a traditional Japanese tea house located within Nakajima Park in Chuo-ku, Sapporo. The most striking feature of this building is its namesake, the "eight windows." While most tea houses have a minimalist window structure, Hasso-an features three lattice windows, four lower windows, and one top window, totaling eight. This unique arrangement creates a sophisticated interplay of light and shadow within the space. Additionally, a plaque inscribed with the characters "Bousen" hangs at the front, signifying its profound historical importance in the history of the Way of Tea.

History and Cultural Background

The history of this tea house begins not in Hokkaido, but in Shiga Prefecture. Originally, it was located within Komuro Castle, the residence of Kobori Masatsugu (also known as Kobori Enshu), during the Edo period. After passing through various locations including Nagahama Hachiman-gu and Enkyo-ji Temple, the materials were transported to Sapporo by the businessman Kinya Mochida in 1919. Reconstructed in its current location in 1925, it was designated as an Important Cultural Property under the Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties in 1950. In 1971, it was donated to the city of Sapporo and moved to its current position within the Japanese garden on the north side of Nakajima Park. Despite facing a period of difficulty due to structural damage caused by heavy snow, restoration work was completed in 2008, restoring the building to its original glory.

Key Highlights

The most notable architectural element is the "central pillar." This pillar is made from a red pine log, which is said to have been hand-hewn by Kobori Enshu himself. The ceiling is crafted from materials resembling woven reed leaves, providing a tactile sense of natural textures. The walls are made of "Juraku-do" earth, a traditional clay found near Kyoto, showcasing the concentration of traditional techniques in every detail. The arrangement of the windows, the small entrance known as the "nijiri-guchi" (crawl-in entrance), and the garden layout still preserve the original essence of the era.

Seasonal Recommendations

Nakajima Park, where Hasso-an is situated, offers a different face in every season. You can witness the changing scenery of cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, and vibrant autumn leaves in the fall. The tea house's presence shifts beautifully with these changes. The time of day when natural light streams through the eight windows is particularly magical, as the contrast between light and shadow highlights the texture of the interior and the form of the red pine pillar, allowing you to touch history in a quiet, contemplative space.

Experience and Activities

Visitors can visually observe the traditional Japanese architectural styles. It serves as a precious site to understand how the spirituality of the tea ceremony is reflected in architecture, through the use of materials and the spatial transition experienced when passing through the small "nijiri-guchi" entrance. Along with the Japanese garden in Nakajima Park, you can learn about the story of its relocation and the cultural background of the famous tea master, Kobori Enshu.

Surrounding Area

Hasso-an is nestled within the vast Nakajima Park in the heart of Sapporo. The park features various historical buildings, beautiful gardens, and well-maintained walking paths, making it a vital spot for sightseeing in Sapporo. The surrounding area offers peaceful paths and areas perfect for enjoying seasonal flowers and a quiet stroll.

Practical Information

• Payment: For facility usage or nearby transport, cash or transit IC cards (Suica, Kitaca, etc.) are generally used. Please check local signage for specific tea house entry fees.
• Language Support: Most signs are in Japanese, but as a major site in Nakajima Park, basic signage is available. It is recommended to prepare Japanese-language materials or use translation tools for detailed explanations.
• Reservations: Generally, no prior reservation is required, but it is recommended to check the official Nakajima Park website or Sapporo cultural property information for current exhibition status.
• Clothing and Footwear: As this is a traditional building, you will need to remove your shoes to protect the tatami mats and earthen walls. It is best to wear comfortable shoes for walking. Due to the small entrance (nijiri-guchi), please be mindful of movement.
• Photography: Photography inside the tea house may be restricted to protect the cultural property. Please follow the instructions of the staff or local signs.
• Accessibility: As a historical structure, there are steps and narrow passages (such as the nijiri-guchi). Please note that accessibility for wheelchairs is limited inside the building.
• Etiquette: Please observe the building, walls, and tatami mats quietly and with care to preserve this precious cultural heritage.