Photogenic spots related to books around Shinjuku.

In Japan, autumn is said to be the perfect season for reading. Although more and more people are purchasing books electronically these days, visiting libraries and bookstores where you can come into direct contact with a large number of books may lead you to encounter books you have never seen before. In this issue, we will introduce you to places related to books around Shinjuku, such as taking photogenic photos and viewing exhibitions. Visit a place where you can experience the world of popular author Haruki Murakami, a museum of oriental studies, a unique book cafe, and more. In the lounge, there are works from his debut to his latest, including rare first editions. 

Haruki Murakami Library / Waseda University International Literature Center

The International Literature Center, located on the campus of Waseda University, is commonly known as the Haruki Murakami Library. Haruki Murakami is an internationally popular author who once attended Waseda University. There is a gallery featuring Murakami’s works, an audio room featuring his favorite music that he listens to at home, and a lounge and café where visitors can take a break. It is where visitors can feel the world of his creations. The “staircase bookshelf” right at the entrance is the most popular and photogenic spot. It looks like a tunnel and pulls you into the world of his works. Enjoy sitting on the stairs, reading books, and taking pictures. You can enjoy this place even if you have never read his books. The library is available free of charge not only to Waseda University students but also to the general public, so those who are interested are encouraged to visit.

Opening hours	10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Please check here for the days the library is closed.
Address	Building No.4, 1-6, Nishi-Waseda, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo Prefecture
Access	6 minutes walk from Waseda Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, which is 1 stop from Takadanobaba Station. Takadanobaba Station is 2 stops from Shinjuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line, which is the nearest station to Shinjuku Washington Hotel.
URL	https://www.waseda.jp/culture/wihl/en

Toyo Bunko Museum 

The Toyo Bunko Museum is a library specializing in oriental studies and the largest research center for oriental studies in Asia. Visitors can enjoy the places and exhibits. One of the most impressive attractions is the Morrison Book Place, a large bookshelf that extends to the ceiling. The collection purchased by the museum’s founder, Hisaya Iwasaki, from journalist and traveler Dr. G. E. Morrison, is on display. The inside of the Morrison Book Place is very chic, with calculated lighting and colors. The books here cannot be picked up and read, but some are available for viewing upon request. There are many valuable documents, including national treasures, cultural assets, and a botanical journal edited by Dr. Tomitaro Makino, who was the model for the NHK TV drama. This is a must-see spot for those who love books and history. 

Opening hours	10:00 AM -5:00 PM（Admission is until 4:30 PM）closed on Tuesday
Address	2-28-21, Hon-komagome, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo Prefecture
Access	10 minutes walk from Komagome Station, which is 15 minutes on the JR Yamanote Line from Shinjuku Station
URL	http://www.toyo-bunko.or.jp/museum/museum_index.php

Fukuroshosabo

Fukuroshosabo offers a unique reading experience. It is a bookstore and a cafe in one, where you can read books you have purchased in the cafe. At the bookstore, books are sold with a cover and the title of the book is hidden. Read the introduction of the book and buy something you are interested in. You will have to wait until you open the book to find out what it is! You may encounter a book of a genre you have never picked up before or a book by an author you have never read before. The cafe next door is a relaxing place to enjoy reading books. Fluffy pancakes served with the skillet are so good. Enjoy reading time while taking a break.

Opening hours	10:30 AM -10:00 PM
Address	Esola Ikebukuro 4F, 1-12-1, Nishi-ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo Prefecture
Access	2 minutes walk from Ikebukuro Station which is 4 stops from Shinjuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line
URL	https://www.doutor.co.jp/fukuro/