Sumiya Motenashi Cultural and Art Museum, Kyoto

Sumiya Motenashi Cultural and Art Museum, Kyoto

Established as a chic salon back in 1641, this historic property once played host to Shimabara's social elite and esteemed geisha. Today, transformed into a museum, it regales visitors with tales of lavish Edo-period feasts. As the sole surviving example of age-ya architecture in Japan, it holds the title of National Important Cultural Property.

In its heyday, an age-ya was the place to be, where guests would indulge in the company of high-ranking geisha, akin to a modern Japanese-style restaurant. The area buzzed with activity as wealthy merchants and intellectuals convened, even spawning a haiku circle known as Shimabara Haidan in the mid-Edo period.

With its chic design and daring motifs, the building exudes an air of sophistication. Each seating area is uniquely crafted, while the walls boast intricate mother-of-pearl work, transforming the property into a veritable masterpiece. The museum's art collection is equally impressive, featuring treasures such as Buson Yosa's folding screen of red and white plum blossoms, and exquisite paintings by Okyo Maruyama and the Kishi school. Plus, keep an eye out for seasonal exhibitions showcasing rotating artwork collections in spring and autumn.

While guided tours are available only in Japanese, the friendly staff, though primarily Japanese-speaking, extend a warm welcome to all visitors.

Tip:
Feel free to snap photos of everything except the precious artifacts and museum artworks.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Kyoto. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Sumiya Motenashi Cultural and Art Museum on Map

Sight Name: Sumiya Motenashi Cultural and Art Museum
Sight Location: Kyoto, Japan (See walking tours in Kyoto)
Sight Type: Museum/Gallery

Walking Tours in Kyoto, Japan

Create Your Own Walk in Kyoto

Create Your Own Walk in Kyoto

Creating your own self-guided walk in Kyoto is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Imperial Kyoto Walking Tour

Imperial Kyoto Walking Tour

The former capital of Japan, Kyoto is the city of tradition. During its heyday, Imperial Kyoto was the cultural and political heart of the country. At the heart of its historical landscape, there are several iconic landmarks, each bearing witness to the city's imperial past.

Nijo Castle, an architectural marvel renowned for its elegant design and elaborate gardens, boasts impeccably...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles
Walk on Philosopher's Path

Walk on Philosopher's Path

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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.7 Km or 1.7 Miles
Arashiyama and Bamboo Grove Walking Tour

Arashiyama and Bamboo Grove Walking Tour

The Arashiyama district of Kyoto is slightly out of the way for tourists, but that means you can enjoy it more comfortably.

Undoubtedly, the most popular attraction here is the iconic Bamboo Grove, a mesmerizing forest of towering bamboo stalks that sway gently in the breeze, creating an ethereal atmosphere. This serene setting is a must-visit for travelers seeking tranquility amidst...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Kyoto Shopping and Food Tour

Kyoto Shopping and Food Tour

The cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto is just as famous as a shopper’s paradise and, without a doubt, the best place in the country to buy traditional and modern Japanese goods. Souvenirs, food, bargains, and various “one-of-a-kind items” are all up for grabs here.

In addition to its shopping scene, Kyoto boasts a rich culinary heritage, from Michelin-starred restaurants to humble street...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles
Higashiyama Walking Tour

Higashiyama Walking Tour

Kyoto is a city catering to tourists, especially those who love history, religion, and, of course, Japanese culture. Many of Kyoto's attractions are found in the eastern part of the city, which itself is split into wards. One of them is the Higashiyama Ward, home to several famous temples, where the look and the feel of feudal-era Japan are still preserved.

One of Higashiyama's most...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
Gion District Walking Tour

Gion District Walking Tour

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Among its notable landmarks is the Minamiza Kabuki Theater, a venue where...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles

Useful Travel Guides for Planning Your Trip


18 Japanese Products To Bring Home from Kyoto

18 Japanese Products To Bring Home from Kyoto

The old capital of Japan, the city of Kyoto has once again been the talk of the world lately, thanks to the bestselling "Memoirs of a Geisha" book and the namesake Hollywood blockbuster movie. Renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship, Japan has so much to amaze a foreign eye with. Many of...