Yoshihiro Takishita

Yoshihiro Takishita is an architect and antique dealer, born in Gifu prefecture. He graduated with a law degree from Waseda University in Tokyo.

Mr. Takishita’s architectural experience goes back to 1967, while still a college student, when he arranged for a Minka (traditional Japanese farmhouse) to be rescued from destruction and moved to a new location for his American foster father. In 1971, after hitchhiking through 33 countries, he established “The house of antiques”, where he continues to sell antique screens.

In addition to his own home, Mr. Takishita has carried out 35 other renovations, including projects in Karuizawa, Honolulu and Buenos Aires. His unique work has been featured on radio and television programs and in numerous publications in Japan and abroad. Mr. Takishita’s first book, “Japanese Country Style–Putting New Life into Old Houses”, was published in 2002 by Kodansha International. In addition to lecturing around the country, Mr. Takishita has established the NPO for preservation of old houses and is President of the Association for Preserving Old Japanese Farm Houses.