The World of Hina in a Period House 2026

• February 1, 2026 at 10:00 am
  Event date:
• March 20, 2026 at 4:00 pm
  Event end:

History

The Toyama Memorial Museum is the preserved former residence of Genichi Toyama, founder of Nikko Securities, built in the early Showa era (1930s) as a luxurious rural retreat. Designated a tangible cultural property of Saitama Prefecture, the main house blends Japanese and Western architectural styles, with tatami rooms, a grand staircase, and intricate woodwork reflecting the wealth of pre-war industrialists.

The adjacent kura storehouse—originally used for valuables—was converted into a museum space after the property was donated to the town in 1983. The annual “World of Hina” exhibition began in the 1990s, displaying the family’s heirloom hina doll sets alongside loaned antique collections.

This intimate showcase continues a tradition started by the Toyama family themselves, who displayed their dolls each March 3 for daughters and grandchildren. Now open to the public, it offers a rare glimpse into elite domestic life of the early 20th century.

Overview

The World of Hina in a Period House 2026 will run from early February to mid-March at the Toyama Memorial Museum in Kawajima, Saitama. The former Toyama family residence and its converted kura storehouse become a serene stage for delicate hina doll displays, including the household’s own multi-generational sets.

Unlike massive public exhibitions, this is a quiet, uncrowded experience—perfect for those who want to admire antique dolls in authentic period rooms without jostling through crowds. The ¥700 admission supports preservation of this cultural property.

Highlights

• Heirloom Family Hina Sets: Multi-tiered imperial court dolls displayed in the original tatami living rooms as the Toyama family once did.
• Kura Museum Collection: Rare and antique dolls from the Edo to early Showa periods, carefully arranged in the fireproof storehouse.
• Showa-Era Architecture: Explore a luxurious 1930s merchant home with fusion Japanese-Western design, stained glass, and garden views.
• Intimate Atmosphere: Rarely crowded, allowing leisurely viewing and photography in historic settings.
• Seasonal Garden: Early plum and camellia blooms visible from the veranda and walking paths.

Why Jasumo Recommends?

• Heirloom Family Hina Sets: Multi-tiered imperial court dolls displayed in the original tatami living rooms as the Toyama family once did.
• Kura Museum Collection: Rare and antique dolls from the Edo to early Showa periods, carefully arranged in the fireproof storehouse.
• Showa-Era Architecture: Explore a luxurious 1930s merchant home with fusion Japanese-Western design, stained glass, and garden views.
• Intimate Atmosphere: Rarely crowded, allowing leisurely viewing and photography in historic settings.
• Seasonal Garden: Early plum and camellia blooms visible from the veranda and walking paths.

If you’re coming to Japan or already in Japan, Jasumo can help with custom cultural heritage tours, private transportation to Kawajima, English-speaking guides, and more. Just contact us using the contact page.

Schedule

Early February to mid-March 2026 (typically first Saturday in February to second Sunday in March)

• Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last entry 3:30 PM)
• Closed: Mondays (or Tuesday if Monday is a holiday)

Pricing

• Admission: ¥700 (includes full access to residence, kura museum, and hina displays)
• Children: Elementary age and under free

Location

Toyama Memorial Museum 675 Shiroinuma, Kawajima, Hiki District, Saitama 350-0128, Japan

How to Get There

• By Car: 5 minutes from Kawajima IC (Ken-O Expressway); free parking on-site.
• By Train + Bus: JR Takasaki Line to Okegawa Station or Kawagoe Line to Kawagoe Station → infrequent local bus to “Ushigayato” stop → 15-minute walk.
• From Tokyo: ~70–90 min by car or train + bus; private transfer recommended.

Accommodation Options

Kawagoe (20 min drive) offers historic warehouse-district ryokan and modern hotels from ¥12,000–¥35,000. Many include breakfast and easy access to Little Edo sightseeing.

Budget business hotels in Okegawa or Ageo start at ¥6,500–¥10,000. For a cultural stay, consider traditional inns in Kawagoe’s preserved merchant quarter.

FAQs

When exactly does the 2026 exhibition open and close?

The display typically runs from the first Saturday in February to the second Sunday in March. Exact 2026 dates will be announced in late 2025.

Is the ¥700 admission just for the hina dolls?

No—it’s the standard museum entry fee, which includes full access to the historic residence, kura collection, gardens, and the seasonal hina exhibition.

Are the buses to the museum frequent?

No—buses from Okegawa or Kawagoe are very infrequent (1–2 per hour). Driving or arranging a taxi/private transfer is strongly recommended.

Can I take photos inside the house?

Yes—non-flash photography is allowed throughout. Tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited to protect the fragile tatami and artifacts.

Is the museum suitable for children?

Yes—though displays are delicate, the spacious grounds and period rooms fascinate kids. The quiet setting is ideal for families avoiding crowded festivals.

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Location