An ode to Haruki Murakami, this is one of the greatest literary figures in the world. Opened in October 2021, the Murakami Library in Tokyo – AKA The Waseda International House of Literature – is for the fans of the Japanese writer’s works. It is housed in the Waseda International House of Literature and has over 3,000 texts documenting Murakami’s works, including essays, short stories and novels.
Haruki Murakami
World-famous Japanese architect Kengo Kuma designed the building, keeping in mind the author’s nature and quirks. The use of curves inside the building, its white exterior and the wooden tunnel around the building symbolise Murakami’s use of the ordinary as well as his sweet, simple and kind-natured deposition. In true Japanese style, Kuma has worked on smaller sections for the visitors to explore.
Explore Your Story, Speak Your Heart
Inspired by Haruki Murakami’s speech on the occasion of receiving the Hans Christian Andersen Literature Award, Director Kei Shichiri created a theme film for the Waseda International House of Literature. The film speaks from a bird’s eye view of architecture and explores the relationship between people and books through the interplay of light and shadow.
Tour of WIHL with Robert Campbell
The Waseda International House of Literature building
The Waseda International House of Literature opened its doors on October 1, 2021. What are the buildings most exciting features? What does each section of the library aim to accomplish? WIHL Advisor Robert Campbell tours the library, asking staff members about exhibitions (including the opening exhibition that ran through February, 2022) and future plans. This video, made by students from WHK, Waseda University Broadcasting Association club, explores WIHL’s charms down to the smallest details.
Facilities
- Stair Bookshelf：Read Murakami’s books—and many others—in the STAIR BOOKSHELF, symbol of WIHL
- Cafe：Grab a drink in the student-run CAFE with a menu based on Murakami’s work
- Lounge／Pocket Park：Take time to relax with a book in the LOUNGE and POCKET PARK
- Author’s Study：Look inside a detailed replica of the AUTHOR’S STUDY
- Nameplate those who make donations to The Haruki Murakami Library Fundraising Campaign
- Gallery：Surround yourself in Murakami—in more than 50 languages—in the GALLERY
- Audio Room：Hear what Murakami is listening to in the AUDIO ROOM
- Reading Space：Come see Haruki Murakami’s bibliography in the READING SPACE.
The price of a ticket is around USD 15.
Visit The Haruki Murakami Library here
