The Jo-an Tea House, in Inuyama's Urakuen garden, stands as a testament to the refinement, spiritual depth, and innovation of Japanese tea culture. Designed by Oda Uraku, a samurai, diplomat, and disciple of the legendary tea master Sen no Rikyū, Jo-an departs from strict tradition to embody its creator’s individualist spirit. Now designated a National Treasure, Jo-an is among the most admired and replicated tea houses in Japan.
A Brief History of Jo-an Tea House
- Built: 1618 by Oda Uraku (also known as Oda Nagamasu), younger brother of warlord Oda Nobunaga
- Original Location: Kyoto, on the grounds of Kenninji Temple
- Moved to Tokyo: 1908 by Mitsui Takamine
- Final Move to Inuyama: 1971, carefully reconstructed at Urakuen
- Designation: Named a National Treasure of Japan in 1951
Jo-an was constructed as part of Uraku’s retirement residence, adjacent to the Shōdenin Shoin, on sacred temple grounds in Kyoto. Though a student of Sen no Rikyū, Uraku’s interpretation of tea aesthetics allowed for more comfort, space, and light—qualities that set Jo-an apart from other tea houses of the time. Over the centuries, the tea house changed hands and locations, miraculously surviving both war and modernization due to the care of dedicated patrons.
After several relocations, from Kyoto to Tokyo and then to Oiso, Jo-an was finally transferred to its current home in Inuyama in 1971 by the Meitetsu Group. The move was an extraordinary operation, with the tea house's components meticulously numbered, wrapped, and transported using methods to preserve its integrity.
At Urakuen, Jo-an was reconstructed and realigned according to historical records, including rejoining the Shodenin Shoin as originally designed. The result is a faithful and elegant restoration that allows visitors to experience Uraku’s vision much as it was 400 years ago.
Architectural Features
Jo-an embodies a unique blend of tradition and personal innovation:
- Size: 3.5 tatami mats (approx. 6.2 m²)—larger than Rikyū’s preferred 2-mat rooms but still modest
- Entrance: Traditional nijiriguchi (crawling entrance) for humility and equality among guests
- Lighting: Features "Uraku windows," semi-translucent bamboo-panel openings, and a hinged skylight for enhanced illumination
- Decor: Walls partly lined with ancient calendars (koyomibari), some dating back to 1629
- Materials: Unprocessed wood, shingled roof, lacquered tokonoma framing—balancing rustic and refined
- Garden Setting: Surrounded by a roji (tea garden), aligned with wabi-cha aesthetics
Uraku’s tea house is designed to comfort the guest, drawing inspiration from both the rustic wabi-cha ideals and the subtle luxuries of a cultured samurai.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is Jo-an called a National Treasure?
Jo-an is considered a masterpiece of tea house architecture. Its historical importance, craftsmanship, and unique features earned it the designation in 1951.
The three national treasure tea houses are Tai-an (Ōyamazaki, Kyoto), Jo-an (Inuyama, Aichi), and Mitsu-an (Ryōkō-in, Kyoto).
Can I visit Jo-an today?
Yes. Jo-an is open to the public at Urakuen Garden in Inuyama. We, at Snow Monkey Resorts, are proud to offer English guided tours of Urakuen with a tea ceremony experience as part of our tour of Inuyama.
Recommended Tour: Embark on a captivating tour from Nagoya to explore the oldest castle in Japan, a National Treasure teahouse, a "city of swords," and the charms of Central Japan on Snow Monkey Resort's 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Samurai Swords and Japan's Oldest Castle.
Learn about the craftsmanship involved in creating a samurai sword, meet a bladesmith and learn how to properly sharpen a kitchen knife, and stroll along the streets of Inuyama where you can indulge a wide array of street food under the shadow of Japan's oldest original castle.
Is Jo-an wheelchair accessible?
Some areas of the garden and Jo-an have traditional features (gravel paths, steps, low entrances) that present challenges for wheelchair users.
