Sieboldhuis (Siebold House), Leiden

The Japan Museum Siebold House (SieboldHuis), located on the historic Rapenburg in Leiden, is a treasure trove of Japanese art, culture, and scientific discovery. The museum houses the remarkable collection of Philipp Franz von Siebold (1796–1866), a German physician and scientist who meticulously gathered artifacts during his stay in Japan from 1823 to 1829 when he resided on Deshima, the Dutch trading post near Nagasaki.

The Siebold House is more than a museum; it’s a symbol of the enduring relationship between Japan and the Netherlands. The museum's permanent exhibition features a diverse array of items from everyday Japanese life and artistic masterpieces. These include hand-painted jewelry, ceramics, figurines, maps, fossils, herbaria, textiles, and much more. The clothing gallery, in particular, enchants visitors with its vivid colors and unique designs. The museum’s collection also includes scientific and medical specimens, reflecting von Siebold's deep interest in Japanese nature and culture.

Originally a district court, the monumental house now owned by the Dutch government was transformed into a museum in 2005 by the Japan Museum Siebold House Foundation, established in 1999. The foundation aims to celebrate the historical ties between the two nations, with support from Dutch and Japanese governmental and business entities.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Siebold House offers temporary exhibitions showcasing both traditional and contemporary Japanese art. It also organizes the popular Japan Market every spring, where visitors can experience Japanese culture through crafts, music performances, and cosplay events.

The Siebold House stands as a testament to Philipp Franz von Siebold's legacy, offering visitors an immersive journey into the wonders of Japanese culture, history, and scientific exploration.