[Hyogo, Sumoto] <Nationally Registered Tangible Cultural Property> Elegant Japanese-style architecture "Shunyoso" that embodies the power of Feng Shui. Immerse yourself in this tasteful and precious historical and cultural space.

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• Surrounded by nature at the foot of a small mountain, Shunyo-so displays the graceful beauty of each season, a feature unique to Japanese architecture. The owner, who is also a certified old house appraiser, will guide you through the property and explain the traditional techniques that are difficult to replicate today, the design that highlights the artisans' playful spirit, and the immeasurable historical and cultural value. After the tour, Shunyo-so will quickly transform into a sweets parlor. Enjoy a refined moment with tea and Japanese sweets in this elegant space. Shunyo-so was designed in 1941 by architect Hoen Yamamoto, an authority on the study of house orientation, based on the principles of feng shui. Local master carpenter Miyoshi Saito and others worked on the project, making it a masterpiece of modern Japanese architecture that took seven years to complete. Further on, in 1983, the walls, gateposts, doors, and gardens were renovated by architect Izue Hiroshi, who was even described as a "master" by the famous poet Kurokawa Kisho. These now harmonize beautifully to create a magnificent architectural landscape. The vast grounds, measuring 1,400 square meters (427 tsubo), are home to eight buildings, including the guest house, storehouse, reception hall, sleeping hall, and permanent residence. In 2004, the property was designated a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property, and in 2017, it was designated as an Important Structure for the Landscape Formation of Hyogo Prefecture. However, with the aging population and a social trend in recent years that solely pursues efficiency, it became difficult for the previous owners to maintain and manage the buildings, and they slowly began to deteriorate, resulting in the gates being closed for a long period of time. The turning point came in 2015. This precious cultural asset was in danger of decaying and being lost. The new, fourth-generation owner purchased it and began renovations to preserve it for future generations. Finally, in October 2016, Shunyo-so was revived and reborn as a new international tourist attraction for Awaji Island. This experience program explores the historical background of Shunyo-so, and the owner himself will personally explain its charms, including the traditional techniques that are difficult to replicate today, the architectural materials that are also hard to obtain, the playful designs that shine through the artisans' spirit, and the elegant furnishings. Experience this space, steeped in history and culture, and showcasing the finest traditional techniques. After the tour, you will be treated to tea and Japanese sweets in the tea room or a room of your choice. Enjoy not only its value as a cultural asset, but also its charm as a sweet shop. English-language guides are available, so international guests can also enjoy. *A five-minute walk from Shunyo-so is the historic and prestigious Takenoguchi Hachiman Shrine, which celebrated its 1,100th anniversary in 2021. Why not pay a visit there? You can also enjoy a stroll through the historical and charming streets of the Takenoguchi area. Experience Schedule (The schedule below starts at 10:00, but please read the time accordingly if starting at 13:00) 10:00 Meet at the location 10:05 Check-in and briefing Guided tour of Shunyo-so 11:00 Enjoy tea and Japanese sweets in the tea room. 11:30 End
• [Philosophy]
• In addition to welcoming guests for tours, Shunyo-so serves as a guesthouse, a sweets parlor, a special exhibition space in the main building, and a venue for various Japanese cultural activities, including Awaji Ningyo Joruri puppet theater, rakugo performances, plum blossom viewing events, traditional Japanese photography sessions, tea ceremonies, and weddings. While maintaining its traditional Japanese lifestyle, the property also embraces new opportunities, such as hosting international guests and interns, catering to inbound tourists as a venue for inspections, meetings, and training, and participating in the Agency for Cultural Affairs' Virtual Reality (VR) digitalization initiative. Furthermore, the property is committed to reducing its environmental impact and contributing to a low-carbon, recycling-oriented society, while also taking on various initiatives to contribute to achieving the SDGs. We hope that the newly reborn Shunyo-so will become a place that spreads the island's proud traditional culture and customs across generations, both on and off the island, and will be beloved by both visitors and local residents alike.