Magazine lovers rejoice. Right here stands the Oya Soichi Library a unique haven in Tokyo. It specializes in Japanese magazines old and new.
The Oya Soichi Library boasts over 800000 Japanese magazines. These magazines comprise 12000 types. The collection spans from the 19th century to the present day. That is the Edo, Meiji, Taisho, Showa, and Heisei Periods.
Unlike many libraries, the Oya Soichi Library focuses on general-interest magazines. You won’t find publications for specific audiences here. Instead, discover titles like Bungeishunju and anan. Friday, Shukan Asahi, Sanpo no Tatsujin, and Number are also included. These magazines captivate the public. They cover diverse topics like computers and the Internet. Manga, anime, popular characters, and fashion are also featured. Even earthquakes and nuclear power find their place.
Most of these magazines are typically discarded after reading. The Oya Soichi Library is a rare institution. It preserves these cultural artifacts. These magazines offer detailed insights into traditional Japanese culture. Discover wabi-sabi aesthetic sensibility. Explore bushido the samurai code of honor. Uncover ninjutsu ninja techniques and sado tea ceremony.
Japanese food and pop culture are also well-represented. Dive into subcultures like Japanimation and otaku. Learn about kawaii cute culture and yurukyara mascot characters. The magazines also highlight famous Japanese sights. Ryokan Japanese-style inns and onsen hot springs await. Explore Kyoto, Nara, and historical ruins. Shrines, temples, Asakusa, and festivals come alive. Climb Mt Fuji or shop in Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ginza, and Akihabara.
The Oya Soichi Library created Web OYA-bunko. This online service lets you search millions of Japanese articles. These articles were published over 120 years ago. Anyone who reads Japanese can use this service. It aids research into Japanese culture. Even non-Japanese speakers might find something interesting. Web OYA-bunko aims to be a living encyclopedia of Japan. It shares Cool Japan information globally.
The Oya Soichi Library continues to evolve. It strives to be a library of the people, by the people, for the people.
Visiting the Oya Soichi Library is an adventure. The Setagaya Main Library is located at 3-10-20 Hachimanyama Setagaya, Tokyo. It is accessible from Hachimanyama Station on the Keio Line. It’s open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Please note the circulation desk closes at 5:15 p.m. The copying desk closes at 5:30 p.m. There is also an Ogose Branch Library in Saitama prefecture.
The Oya Soichi Library does not allow visitors into the stacks. Librarians retrieve articles upon request. You can browse and read items in the reading room. A daily admission fee allows you to browse a limited number of items.
Soichi Oya was a journalist known for his insights into popular culture. He collected over 200000 magazines and books. After his death in 1970, the Oya Soichi Library was founded. It preserves his collection for future generations.