Of the two properties, Homeikan Honkan would be considered the older sibling as it was built 1898. Originally, it was a combination of a boarding house and inn before the Second World War. After the conflict, Honkan would reopen fully as a ryokan. Homeikan is very fortunate to have survived not only the Great Kanto Earthquake, but also the Tokyo Air Raids. Due to that, visitors and locals can see an intact piece of Tokyo’s history and architecture whenever they stay or pass by.

Daimachi, on the other hand, was first intended as the residence of Homeikan’s owners. Built in 1907, it is situated across the street from Honkan, making it convenient for them to attend to business while retaining privacy. However, the success of the ryokan encouraged them to renovate the home into Homeikan’s annex building. Areas of the residence have been integrated as notable parts of the ryokan, such as the inner courtyard garden and the corridors paved with Nachi black stones.

The design of the two Homeikan buildings varies to a degree because of their history. Honkan was built during the Meiji Period and its development was influenced by the grandiose adoption of Western ideas, such as in design and architecture. After the war, its renovation made use of high quality materials, particularly expensive types of wood for its flooring, support structure, and ceiling.

In the case of Daimachi Annex, its prior use as the owners’ residence made it stand out after its conversion into a ryokan. The luxurious features such as the garden with a pond surrounded by well-manicured trees, and the corridors of paved black stones, make it stand out among other inns and hotels in Tokyo.
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Guests will start off their day with an energizing breakfast, prepared washoku style with delectable pickled vegetables, miso soup, and grilled fish. For lunch and dinner, however, you can check out the nearby establishments such as the shokudou restaurant Morikawa, or the Italian food spot Osteria Capanna.

Homeikan is available as the shoot location for your wedding photos, as well as a venue for your wedding reception. Although the Japanese-style matrimonial ceremony itself will need to be performed at a temple or shrine, Homeikan can be booked for a day if the couple wants to take advantage of the ryokan’s beautiful design and architecture. Likewise, the banquet halls of Homeikan Honkan and Homeikan Morikawa Annex are available for a traditional Japanese wedding feast.

Located in what is now called the Bunkyou Ward, Homeikan is within a convenient distance to several local attractions. Tokyo is a densely populated city, but it retains many green spaces. The largest close by is Koishikawa Koraku-en, a landscaped park established in the 17th century and known for its picturesque pond surrounded by trees. Next to the park is Tokyo Dome, a famous stadium known for hosting big sporting events as well as grand musical concerts.

Travelers who’d like to learn more about the area should drop by the Bunkyou Furusato Historical Museum, a local museum which details the area’s origins and activities during the Edo Period.

Other Celebrations

Homeikan can accommodate small private events at their banquet halls so feel free to make a reservation if you’re planning a celebration during your trip. The banquet venues are located in the Homeikan Honkan and Homeikan Morikawa buildings. Be sure to collaborate with the hosts if you’d like a certain type of personalized service for your special day.