Lafcadio Hearn’s Residence

Lafcadio Hearn’s Residence (小泉八雲 熊本旧居) in Kumamoto is the historic former home of Lafcadio Hearn, also known by his Japanese name Koizumi Yakumo. Hearn was one of the first Western authors to deeply explore and write about Japan, moving to the country in 1890 and residing in Kumamoto from 1891 to 1894. During his time there, he developed a profound appreciation for Japanese culture, which he captured in his influential works, such as Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan and Kwaidan. These writings offer a rare and intimate glimpse into Japanese folklore, traditions, and daily life from a Western perspective.

Today, the residence is preserved as a museum dedicated to Hearn’s life and legacy. Visitors can walk through the rooms where he lived, surrounded by period furnishings and exhibits that illuminate his personal journey and literary achievements. The museum offers a unique opportunity to connect with the man who helped introduce Japan’s cultural richness to the Western world, making it a meaningful stop for literature enthusiasts and history lovers alike.