This Georgian residence was the boyhood home of Lafcadio Hearn ( Koizumi Yakumo 1850-1904 ) one of the most fascinating writers of the 19th century. The Celtic spirit of vague unrest and a reaction to Western materialism led him to Japan in 1890. His genius grasped better than anyone the very essence of Japan. He presented with subtle comprehension and symapthy and with exquisite prose the soul of a people destined to play an ever increasing role in world affairs