A stone frog, found after a typhoon, sits enshrined near here. That relic links us directly to the spirit we honor today at the Basho Museum. This museum commemorates Matsuo Basho. He was a luminary of Japanese haiku. His poetry is known throughout Japan and the world. The Basho Museum stands in Koto City. It is near the small hut where Basho once lived. He wrote many travel journals there.
Matsuo Basho lived from 1644 to 1694. He moved from Nihonbashi to Fukagawa in 1680. He remained there until his death. Basho undertook many journeys. One famous journey was Okuno Hosomichi.
Inside the Basho Museum, you can explore Basho’s life. Panels and replicas reveal his personality. The museum displays many Basho-related items. These include his real poem book from 1680. Exhibits change seasonally.
The museum was built in 1959. Kanbe Mannosuke donated funds for its construction. The Basho Library preserves Basho’s writings. It also holds pre-modern renga and haikai literature.
The “Stone Frog” is a must-see exhibit. People say it was Basho’s favorite. It was found in Tokiwa after a typhoon in 1917. In 1921, the Tokyo Prefectural Government named the place “The Remains of Basho’s Ancient Pond” after this frog.
Also nearby is “Basho Small Shrine”. It was rebuilt in 1934. This marked the 250th anniversary of Basho’s death. Hibino Togetsu, a haiku sect leader, rebuilt it on the site of Basho’s former residence. The stone building survived the bombing in Tokyo in 1945.
Don’t miss the view from “Basho-an Historic Viewing Garden.” The watershed of the Sumida River and Onagi River is superb. Basho himself enjoyed this scenery. After closing time, the Statue of Basho rotates in the garden. It is lit up for a unique sight.
Commentary on the exhibits is available in Japanese and English. Scan a QR code with your smartphone to listen. Audio translation devices are also available.
General admission to the Basho Museum costs 200 yen. You can pay with cash or credit card. The museum offers restrooms and non-smoking areas.
Visiting the Basho Museum allows you to follow in the footsteps of a haiku master. It connects you to the landscapes and nature that inspired his timeless verses. As you leave reflect on Basho’s simple yet evocative poetry and the enduring legacy it has created.