The residence was originally known as the Tsushima Family Home, renamed 'Shayokan' after the title of one of Dazai's short stories.
The house was constructed using high-quality Aomori Hiba cypress, a wood prized for its durability and scent.
Despite its size of over 20 rooms, Dazai lived here only until he left for high school at age 14.
The house features a traditional Japanese kura (storehouse) that has been converted to exhibit Dazai-related materials.
Dazai’s father served in the House of Peers, and the home's design was meant to project political and economic power.
Shayokan is the preserved childhood home of writer Osamu Dazai, located in the Kanagi district of Goshogawara. The building is a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan, originally constructed in 1907. It functions as a museum dedicated to Dazai's literary life and personal history. The architecture features a hybrid of Japanese traditional style and Western-influenced design elements. Visitors can explore the preserved rooms, including the study and the master bedroom where Dazai was born. The museum houses a collection of original manuscripts, early editions of his works, and personal belongings. It serves as a pilgrimage site for fans of his seminal novel, No Longer Human. The building reflects the wealth and status of the Tsushima family, Dazai's father having been a prominent local landowner and politician.
The internal courtyard garden looking back toward the grand entrance veranda.
Remove shoes at the entrance and wear the provided slippers to protect the original flooring.
Follow the clearly marked path through the tatami rooms to ensure you see all historical displays.
Visit the adjacent gift shop for limited-edition books and stationery not available elsewhere.
Do not attempt to touch the shoji screens or historical artifacts on display.
Closed for year-end and New Year holidays.
Maintain a quiet volume within the wooden halls; photography is permitted in most areas but avoid using flash on delicate manuscripts.
