The former home of noted theoretical physicist and Nobel laureate Hideki Yukawa (1907-1981) has been donated to Kyoto University.

The wooden house, located on the eastern side of Shimogamo Shrine, will be rebuilt under the direction of architect Tadao Ando and used by the university for guests and as a research salon from 2023 onwards. The garden and ‘kura’ storehouse will be restored.

Yukawa lived in the traditional home for 24 years in his retirement. It was built in 1933, with a total floor area of 370 sqm over two floors. Although it has not been registered as a Tangible Cultural Property, Kyoto City has recognized it as an important building and garden that represents the city’s heritage.

After Yukawa’s passing in 1981, his wife and surviving family continued to live in the property. In recent years, the heirs have struggled with the maintenance required for such a large and historic home and spoke with the university about taking it over. The heirs sold the property to Tokyo-based real estate company Haseko Corporation in March 2021, who will then transfer it, along with the 750 sqm of land, to Kyoto University.

Source: The Mainichi Shimbun, September 15, 2021

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