Manjuen Gallery

(⁴⁄₅ stars)
Beyond Unilocal 100 Challenge 2015 — 35/​?
Along the main street leading towards the entrance of the Jindaiji temple area, there are many famous soba shops offering hand-​made noodles that are quite famous as destinations for locals and tourists alike. Among these shops are a few gift shops and galleries — this is one of the most prominent. Please note that the handicraft shop/​café across the street has the same name (probably owned by the same people; separate Unilocal spot/​Review), so it’s easy to find both.
The building itself is an old style private warehouse that has been remodeled and converted to a gallery space. The outside has the traditional shapes and architectural features, with the exception of windows added for natural lighting and fairly high level of upkeep. Inside, you’ll find a warm, well-​lit space that provides a nice inviting backdrop for whatever is being exhibited at the time.
Highlights:
+ Ambiance: ⁴⁄₅ stars (nice blend of traditional and modern architecture; subdued lighting and interior to highlight whatever exhibit is on at the time)
+ Layout; ⁴⁄₅ (basically the flow through the space is determined by the artist hosting the given display, but the space itself is sufficient to provide flexibility for both viewing and lighting)
+ Access: ⁴⁄₅ (right on the main access road; note that access for disabled may be limited due to the stairs in the front. Some access may be available by going around and reaching the entrance from the back side, however. Ample access to the general area by bus, car, bicycle or on foot. No parking on site, but there are several pay lots nearby.)
A particular feature is the fit of the structure into the neighborhood, which is mostly residential but accented by the famous Jindaiji Temple. You feel a nice harmony of modern art and traditional atmosphere as accented by the architecture, motifs and influences of the temple itself. In addition, it is often a pleasant discovery to find what is being exhibited at any given time throughout the year. Pop in for a peek — sometimes the displayed items are for sale, other times for display only.
As mentioned, feel free to cross the street and visit the handicrafts shop and café. Traditional wares and Japanese sweets/​tea are offered to further enhance your visit to the area.
You might also want to see in the neighborhood:
+ Jindaiji Temple — very old and traditional temple with great historical significance
+ Restaurants — featuring hand-​made famous soba and local delicacies
+ Suishakan (Waterwheel) — historical landmark that still works — you can see the actual mechanics of the mill as water drives the wheel, which in turn drives the mill gears inside
+ Jindai Botanical Gardens — open year-​around and regularly hosts festivals to highlight the seasonal blooming flowers
+ Natural hot spring (Jindai no Yu) — one of the first natural hot springs discovered within Tokyo proper, after many years of deep drilling. Highly recommended!