Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens Showing The Elaborated Space with A Very Japanese ＆ Western Ambiance

“Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens”(旧岩崎邸庭園) was built in 1896. You can have a look around the very valuable buildings which are also designated as important cultural properties. This garden contains a stunning Western-style building that delicate decoration designed up to the ceiling and a contrasting Japanese-style building. Please experience the beauty of the garden which creates an outstanding contrast.

Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens was built as the main residence of Iwasaki Hisaya, the 3rd president of Mitsubishi. At present, the ground has only 3 buildings, namely the western-style building, billiard room and Japanese building, but at the time of construction, it’s said that 20 buildings were lined up on the grounds 3 times larger than now.

This Western-style building was designed by Josiah Conder, who built the ‘Rokumeikan’ known as a symbol of westernization in the Meiji period. (1868-1912) The hall is decorated with delicate designs up to the ceiling, so there’re many highlights such as the wallpaper and stained glass. That is mesmerizing scenery. It was mainly used as a private guesthouse gathering guests for parties. The Japanese-style building which is combined with the Western-style building is based on the Shoin-zukuri style. At the time of completion, it was larger than the Western-style building and the living space of Iwasaki. In addition, the billiard room was built in the style of Swiss mountain lodges and has been a luxury structure that is covered in Japanese leather paper with metal foil. Moreover, it’s connected to the Western-style building by an underpass.

The garden which is mixed with Japanese and Western definitely make your heart flutter. There is a tea room, so you can enjoy spending a relaxing time while thinking at the time.