British Antique Museum BAM Kamakura (英国アンティーク博物館 BAM鎌倉)
Discover the British Antique Museum BAM Kamakura
Opened in September 2022 along Wakamiya-oji Avenue (若宮大路) in Kamakura, this museum is a new cultural destination dedicated to the enduring charm of 19th-century British antiques. Inspired by the National Trust movement in the UK, the museum aims to bridge British heritage with Japanese efforts in cultural preservation—breathing new life into the historic city of Kamakura.
Highlights: Architecture, Exhibits, and Atmosphere
Designed by Kengo Kuma (隈研吾), the exterior features cypress louvers that blend traditional Japanese elegance with British classicism. Each floor presents a unique theme: from antique silverware and Victorian furniture to authentic fireplaces and interior décor. The atmosphere reflects refined beauty that transcends time.
Sherlock Holmes Room: Step into the Story
On the third floor, visitors can explore a faithful recreation of Sherlock Holmes’ study, living room, and bedroom. Complete with medicine bottles, microscopes, and gas lights, the space also displays Arthur Conan Doyle’s handwritten letters and first editions—an absolute delight for any fan of the famous detective.
Black Cab Café: British Flavor in Every Sip
The first floor houses Japan’s first café built into a vintage London Black Cab. One of the owner’s 10-car collection is on display alongside an iconic red telephone box, making it a popular photo spot. Relax with a cup of coffee or British tea and enjoy a moment of UK-inspired charm.
Rooftop Teahouse and Fourth Floor Gallery
The fourth floor features a standing-style teahouse designed by Kengo Kuma (隈研吾), blending Kamakura elements with a tribute to Charles Rennie Mackintosh (チャールズ・レニー・マッキントッシュ). Using 800-year-old British oak and excavated Kamakura-era wood, the room offers stunning views of the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine (鶴岡八幡宮) and surrounding forest like a living hanging scroll.
Photography & Museum Shop
Photography is allowed throughout the museum, except for flash, selfie sticks, and tripods. The first-floor museum shop is open to all without admission. It offers original items such as miniatures of Big Ben, London buses, and telephone boxes, as well as imported goods from the Sherlock Holmes Museum and teacups designed by Kengo Kuma (隈研吾). A bronze statue of Holmes, added in 2023, greets guests at the main entrance.
Hours and Access
Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Expect to spend 40–60 minutes. Admission is available to elementary-aged children and older (no preschoolers). Online tickets are ¥1,200 (¥1,300 at the door). The museum is a 7-minute walk from Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅) and only 1 minute from Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine (鶴岡八幡宮). Seasonal views of cherry blossoms and autumn foliage enhance the visit. Open year-round; check the official website for updates.
Accessibility Notes
Wheelchairs and strollers are not permitted inside the museum. However, secure lockers are available outside for baggage storage during your visit.
How It Fits into a Stay at Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス)
Staying at the fully automated smart hotel Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス), with its self-catering kitchen, lets you explore places like this museum freely and on your own time. With a stay-like-a-local experience, you can enjoy slower, richer cultural encounters in between sightseeing.
Who Should Visit?
- Fans of British culture or antique design
- Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts
- Visitors who enjoy calm, reflective experiences
- Travelers seeking photogenic, aesthetic spots
- Flexible, self-paced explorers on extended stays
Wrap-Up: British Elegance in the Heart of Kamakura
British Antique Museum BAM Kamakura is a tranquil, stylish cultural space—quickly becoming a new classic in Kamakura. As British and Japanese history quietly meet, you’ll lose track of time exploring this curated world of antique beauty. During your stay at Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス), set aside time to discover this deeper side of Kamakura.