Guida
Jakushu Itteki Bunko is a comprehensive literary museum established by the renowned author Tsutomu Mizukami, a native of Fukui Prefecture, to promote his literary and artistic pursuits. Opened in 1985 and currently managed by the NPO Itteki no Sato, the facility consists of several distinct areas: the Main Building, the Bamboo Puppet Museum, the Kuruma-isu Theater, and the Rokkakudo cafe/shop. It offers a profound immersion into the worlds of literature, art, and traditional bamboo puppet artistry.
This facility is a cultural hub built by Tsutomu Mizukami using his personal resources in his birthplace, Wakasa (the area surrounding present-day Oi Town, Fukui). Mizukami also led the 'Wakashu Ningyo-za' to promote the art of 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 serves not just as a museum, but as a vital center for preserving and disseminating regional culture and art.
The facility features a variety of captivating exhibition spaces. On the first floor of the Main Building, you will find a library housing approximately 20,000 precious volumes, including Mizukami's personal collection, alongside the 'Bunna Room' for children. The special exhibition room also showcases works by painters who were close associates of Mizukami, such as Fuke Akino, Shinichi Saito, Kokuta Suda, and Jun Watanabe.
In the Bamboo Puppet Museum, visitors can admire the exquisite craftsmanship of approximately 60 bamboo puppet bodies and 250 heads related to the Wakashu Ningyo-za troupe. The Kuruma-isu Theater serves as a stage for regular bamboo puppet Bunraku performances, offering a beautiful view of the bamboo grove through its picture window. The harmony between the 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 you can enjoy the changing scenery of the four seasons. The bamboo grove behind the Kuruma-isu Theater, in particular, offers a different atmosphere each season. In October, the facility hosts events related to the 'Kienki' memorial service for Tsutomu Mizukami, a significant literary milestone. Visiting during daylight hours allows you to fully appreciate the way natural light interacts with the beautiful architecture.
Visitors can engage in cultural workshops involving traditional bamboo crafts. Available activities include bamboo paper making, bamboo brush making, Magatama (comma-shaped bead) making, and fire-starting workshops. These sessions provide a rare opportunity to touch upon traditional Japanese handiwork in a peaceful, contemplative environment.
The facility is nestled in the lush natural environment of Oi Town, Fukui. The surrounding landscape, characterized by quiet and serene scenery, evokes the literary world of Tsutomu Mizukami, making it an ideal place for cultural heritage tours and nature walks.
The facility primarily consists of wooden structures. While some accessibility features like ramps are available, please be mindful of the precious exhibits and architecture. We recommend modest attire and ask that you avoid clothing that might accidentally touch the displays. Photography may be restricted in certain areas. Please note that cash is required for the Rokkakudo cafe and workshops. English language support is limited. To maintain the tranquil atmosphere, please keep voices low while inside.