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Koshoin

Establishment
Katsura Imperial Villa
Type
Building
PeriodEarly Edo Period
Construction Date
StructureOne-story wooden structure with shingled roof

The Koshoin (literally, Old Shoin) was the first Shoin built by Prince Hachijo Toshihito. Prince Toshihito was a leading figure in classical literature at the Imperial court at that time. He excelled not only in literature but also in horsemanship, koto (traditional Japanese harp), and kemari (traditional football game). His versatile talents extended to architecture and garden design, and he supervised the construction of his main residence. This experience was also utilized in the construction of the Katsura Imperial Villa.

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