Hidden behind an unassuming gate stands Sekison-tei. This is not just any house. It is the former home of Junichiro Tanizaki a literary giant. For seven years from 1949 to 1956 this was his beloved residence. He moved over 40 times in his life yet Sekison-tei held a special place in his heart.
Sekison-tei is more than a house. It’s a testament to a writer’s life. Tanizaki’s daily routine was quite meticulous. He would leave the main house for his study at 5 am. He wouldn’t leave until 5 pm. A sign reading “Now writing” kept family members out unless absolutely necessary. This dedication created a space for his craft.
The study itself is a treasure. Located in an annex it’s separated from the main house by a beautiful Japanese garden. Tanizaki wrote many of his renowned novels here. The Key is one of them. It was here he dictated passages to a secretary. The drawing-room just off the study hosted literary gatherings. Tanizaki met with contemporaries like Naoya Shiga.
Sekison-tei’s main house is a single-story wooden structure with a tiled roof. A connecting passageway offers a stunning view of the garden. This passageway is even featured in Tanizaki’s novel The Bridge of Dreams. The garden itself is enchanting. Water flows from a small hill creating a waterfall and a pond. A trellis covered with Japanese stauntonia vine adds beauty. The garden was designed for strolling. The scenery shifts with each step.
Even the bathroom is interesting. Built with fragrant Japanese cypress it has a skylight. Imagine Tanizaki relaxing here after a day of writing. Nissin Electric bought Sekison-tei in 1956. They honored Tanizaki’s wish to keep it unaltered. It is a significant cultural and architectural landmark. Sekison-tei is more than a former residence. It is a living piece of history. A reminder of a writer’s dedication and a company’s commitment to preserving history. It continues to serve as a testament to the life and work of a literary legend.