Yoshiya Nobuko Memorial Museum

House of Nobuko Yoshiya; Famous Female Writers in Kamakura

Among the excellent female writers who have lived in Kamakura, Nobuko Yoshiya (1896–1973) is perhaps one of the most famous. She is known for her popular novels including so-called "girls' novels," "home novels," and historical novels (e.g. Tokugawa Women). When she was 66, Yoshiya moved to Kamakura from noisy Tokyo in search of a better writing environment. Located in a quiet residential area, the one-story main house was designed by Isoya Yoshida, one of the greatest modern sukiya style architects. Yoshiya asked for the house to look like a convent in Nara. The house was donated to the city of Kamakura and is now used as a study facility for Kamakura residents. The house is open to the public in the spring and fall. Visitors can view Yoshiya's study and bedroom, as well as autograph manuscripts and other items.