Shofuso - The Japanese House

 Our recent traveling herb seminar included a stop at Shofuso, The Japanese House and Gardens in Fairmount Park.  Considered one of the most notable and unique attractions in Philadelphia, it is open to the public from May through October.

This 17th century-style Japanese house was built in Japan in 1953 using traditional techniques and materials and then transported to the Museum of Modern Art in New York where it was on exhibition in the courtyard.  In the late 1950's, it was moved to Philadelphia, to the site of several previous Japanese structures dating to the 1876 Centennial Exposition where it has been maintained and shared with visitors.  While here, you will discover a viewing garden with koi pond and island, a tea garden, and a courtyard garden within the walls of this historic site and museum.


These lovely young students of the Urasenke school of chanoyu (the way of tea) were happy to pose for photos in the inner gardens of the house.   They assisted in the tea ceremony demonstration we enjoyed while visiting Shofuso.

 This display was in the kitchen area of the house with a tray that represents a typical breakfast.

 A variety of tea pots and accessories are also on display in this museum.