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Houseboat

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Houseboat, Historical houseboat in Sōraku-en, Japan

Description

The houseboat is a traditional wooden vessel in Sōraku-en featuring carved beams, ornamental details, and raised platforms that extend over the water. Its construction is designed to sit stably on the water while integrating visually with the surrounding garden landscape.

History

The houseboat originates from the Edo period when such structures were vital for people living on rivers and conducting commerce. It embodies a way of life that was tied to Japan's waterways and trading networks.

Culture

The houseboat shows how people once lived and worked directly on the water as part of their daily life. Its design reflects the importance of waterways for trade and community during that era.

Practical

The houseboat sits within the Sōraku-en garden and is part of a larger grounds that can be explored on foot. Nearby train stations make it convenient to reach on public transportation.

Did you know?

The houseboat holds the designation of Important Cultural Property of Japan, underscoring its exceptional status. This recognition reflects how rare and valued its construction methods are for preservation.

Location
Naka-Yamate-dōri
GPS coordinates
34.69222,135.18139
Latest update
December 12, 2025 17:41

AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Naka-Yamate-dōri).

« Houseboat - Historical houseboat in Sōraku-en, Japan » is provided by Around Us (aroundus.com). Images and texts are derived from Wikimedia project under a Creative Commons license. You are allowed to copy, distribute, and modify copies of this page, under the conditions set by the license, as long as this note is clearly visible.

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