Rokkakudo Hall

Rokkakudo (六角堂, Rokkakudō, lit. "hexagonal hall"), a distinctive hexagonal building located on the Pacific coast in northern Ibaraki Prefecture, near Iwaki, was originally constructed in 1905 by the celebrated scholar and artist Okakura Tenshin. Designed as a peaceful retreat for artistic activities, the building's unique shape reflects Tenshin's creative vision. After the devastation of the 2011 tsunami, Rokkakudo was rebuilt in 2012, carefully restored to retain its original charm and architectural style, standing as a testament to both its cultural significance and resilience.

Known in the West for his groundbreaking work The Book of Tea, Okakura Tenshin played a pivotal role in introducing Japanese tea culture to the world. Visitors to Rokkakudo can explore his life and legacy at a small memorial museum nearby. This museum is complemented by a visit to his former residence, a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture, though the house itself is not open to the public. A stone monument next to the residence bears the inscription “Asia is One,” representing Tenshin’s vision of unity among Asian nations.