Japanese Bookstores, Libraries, and Literary Havens
Source:
@readinginkyoto
8 places in Japan featured in a instagram post by Lauren | Reading in Kyoto, verified on Google Maps: Kyoto International Manga Museum, Kanda Jinbocho, Kadokawa Musashino Museum, and 5 more.
Kyoto International Manga Museum
Museum
4.2
Discover the world of manga in a converted elementary school, housing over 300,000 volumes. Grab a book and relax on the lawn. A fascinating cultural experience, even for non-manga readers.
Kanda Jinbocho
Place
Explore this historic neighborhood, a haven for book lovers with countless secondhand shops. Spend at least half a day browsing rare prints and manga. Perfect for collectors and those who cherish the scent of old books.
Kadokawa Musashino Museum
Museum
4.2
Explore this granite megalith, a part library, art gallery, and manga museum designed by Kengo Kuma. Witness projection mapping on shelves at night. Spend half a day understanding Japanese reading culture.
BOOK AND BED TOKYO Shinjuku
Hostel
3.4
Stay in a unique hostel where beds are built into bookshelves, offering a cozy and immersive experience. The Kyoto location boasts beautiful views. Ideal for solo travelers and bookworms needing a restful night.
Hirakata T-SITE
Shopping mall
3.9
Experience this impressive eight-story glass building, a design lover's paradise between Kyoto and Osaka. An easy detour for those exploring the Kyoto-Osaka corridor. Allow 1-2 hours to fully appreciate its unique architecture.
The Waseda International House of Literature (The Haruki Murakami Library)
Library
4.6
Immerse yourself in the world of Haruki Murakami at his alma mater, featuring manuscripts and a spiral staircase lined with his books. An architectural marvel, appealing to both Murakami fans and design enthusiasts.
Ishikawa Prefectural Library
Library
4.6
Discover a vast, luminous reading space that elevates the public library experience. A cultural institution in 'little Kyoto,' perfect for architecture lovers and slow travelers. An hour or two is well spent here.
Yusuhara Community Library
Library
4.7
Visit this unique library in a tiny mountain town, built almost entirely from local cedar with an upside-down roof. A beautiful space to spend a few hours in a rural community surrounded by books. Perfect for architecture lovers.