Attractive Elegant Appearance – “Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa”, Designated as an Important Cultural Property”

“Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa” (旧三井家下鴨別邸) was built as a villa by the former Mitsui Family. There are a main building, a tea room, and a porch on the spacious grounds, and they are classical beautiful appearance, which makes us feel the thought, ‘beauty and lifestyle’ of the Mitsui Family. Experience the traditional atmosphere which is also designated an important cultural property.

“Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa” is located to the south of the world heritage, Shimogamo Shrine. The villa was built by Hachiroemon Takemine, the 10th head of the Mitsui Family (the head family of all 11 Mitsui Families) as a villa for all the Mitsui Families in 1925. After that, the building was transferred to the country in 1949 and served as the housing of the chief of the Kyoto Family Court from 1951 to 2007. The villa was designated an important cultural property because it’s well-preserved and is valued as a masterpiece of modern Japanese architecture.

The main building and other extensive residential compounds have been maintained in superb condition. It seems that the main building was originally built in 1880 as the Mitsui family’s Kiyamachi villa, and was relocated to the same location. There is a watchtower on the 3rd floor from which people can enjoy a wonderful view of the Higashiyama ridges. In addition, the south side of the 1st floor is designed to be open so that you can fully enjoy the green moss-covered garden. It’s nice to be able to relax and enjoy yourself while feeling the pleasant breeze blowing through your body. The 2nd and 3rd floors of the main building and the tea room are not open to the public except during the special opening period. There are also events where you can take a tour after eating meals and Japanese sweets, so be sure to check it out. Have a luxurious time while spending in precious architecture.