Hassō-an, Tea house in Nakajima Park, Japan.
Hassō-an is a historic tea house located in Nakajima Park in Sapporo, built with wooden materials, sliding doors, tatami mat flooring, and eight windows that give it its distinctive character. The compact interior space preserves the traditional elements needed for proper tea ceremony practice and observation.
The tea house was originally built during the Edo period at Komuro Castle in Ōmi Province and relocated to Sapporo in 1919 to preserve this historic structure. This move ensured the building could survive and be appreciated by visitors in its new location.
The name Hassō-an refers to the eight windows that flood the interior with natural light, and this design choice supports the quiet focus needed for tea ceremonies. Visitors experience how every architectural detail guides attention inward and creates a setting for mindful practice.
Before visiting, check the opening hours as they can vary seasonally, and plan to spend time sitting quietly to appreciate the space fully. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes you can remove easily, since the tatami mat floor requires stepping out of footwear when entering.
Interestingly, the surrounding garden was designed in 1989 by Kobori Sokei, a direct descendant of the original architect Kobori Enshu who created the tea house itself. This family connection across generations adds a layer of continuity that many visitors do not realize when they walk through the space.
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