Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens is a historic landmark located in Taitō, Tokyo that was once the residence of the Iwasaki clan, the founders of Mitsubishi, and is now a popular destination for those interested in Japanese architecture and culture.
The estate covers an area of about 17,000 square meters and features three buildings: a Western-style house designed by British architect Josiah Conder, a Japanese house, and a billiard house. Completed in 1896, it was the first place to have Japanese and Western-style residences side by side, with a spacious garden around it.
Key Takeaways
- Former residence of the Iwasaki clan, the founders of Mitsubishi.
- Features three buildings: a Western-style house designed by British architect Josiah Conder, a Japanese house, and a billiard house.
- The first place to have Japanese and Western-style residences side by side.
- A rare example of Western architecture in Japan from the Meiji period.
- The garden features a pond, a waterfall, and a tea house.
- Open to the public
- Located near Ueno Park and is easily accessible by public transportation.
History
Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens is a historic site located in the Yushima district of Tokyo’s Taito ward. Completed in 1896, it was the residence of Iwasaki Hisaya, the third President of Mitsubishi, and the first place to have Japanese and Western-style residences side by side. The estate covers an area of about 17,000 square meters and features three buildings: a Western-style house designed by British architect Josiah Conder, a Japanese house, and a billiard house.
The Iwasaki clan, who were the founders of Mitsubishi, were one of the most prominent families in Japan during the Meiji period. The family’s rise to power coincided with Japan’s transition from a feudal society to a modern nation-state. The Iwasakis played a significant role in this process, using their wealth and influence to support the government’s modernization efforts.
During the Second World War, the Iwasaki family was forced to abandon the estate, and it was subsequently used as a military hospital. After the war, the estate was returned to the family, but it was eventually sold to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government in 1967. The gardens were opened to the public in 1983 and have since become a popular tourist destination.
Features
One of the most notable features of the garden is the Western-style house designed by British architect Josiah Conder. This elegant and grand building is a masterpiece of Western architecture, and is a rare example of a Western-style building in Japan from the late 19th century. You can explore the interior of the house and see the beautiful furnishings and decorations that were once used by the Iwasaki family.
Another highlight of the garden is the Japanese house, which is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture.
The house features a number of unique and interesting design elements, including shoji screens, tatami mats, and beautiful wooden beams and columns. You can explore the interior of the house and learn about traditional Japanese culture and architecture.
The garden itself is also a beautiful and peaceful place to explore. The garden covers an area of about 17,000 square meters and features a number of different sections, each with its own unique features and attractions. You can stroll through the garden and enjoy the beautiful flowers, trees, and other plants that are found throughout the estate.
Finally, the billiard house is another interesting feature of the garden. This small building was once used by the Iwasaki family for entertainment, and features a beautiful billiard table and other furnishings that give visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of the wealthy and powerful Iwasaki clan.
Layout
The garden is divided into three sections: the Western-style house, the Japanese house, and the billiard house. You can explore the garden and the three buildings to get a glimpse of the lifestyle of the Iwasaki clan, who were the founders of Mitsubishi.
The Western-style house was designed by British architect Josiah Conder and is a must-visit attraction. The house features stained glass windows, parquet floors, a spiral staircase, and fifteen different fireplaces, each a distinct work of art in itself. You can explore the various rooms of the house, which include a living room, a dining room, a study, and a music room. The house is a perfect blend of Japanese and Western architecture.
The Japanese house is another highlight of the garden. The house is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture and features a tatami room, a tea room, and a beautiful garden. You can witness the beautiful Japanese garden and learn about the tea ceremony, which is an integral part of Japanese culture.
The billiard house is a unique feature of the garden and is a testament to the Iwasaki clan’s love for sports. The house features a billiard table and other sports equipment and is a great place to relax and unwind.
Visiting Information
Here is some important information to keep in mind when planning your visit:
| Location | 1-3-45 Ike-no-hata, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-0008 |
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| Access |
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| Parking | No parking available |
Admission to Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens is 400 yen for adults and 200 yen for children. The gardens are open from 9:00am to 5:00pm, with last admission at 4:30pm. The gardens are closed on Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday), December 29 to January 1, and for maintenance periods.
Visitors are not allowed to bring food or drink into the gardens, but there are vending machines and a small shop selling snacks and souvenirs. Smoking is also prohibited in the gardens.
Guided tours are available in English, Japanese, and other languages for an additional fee. Reservations are required for group tours and can be made by contacting the administration office.
The Sum Up
The Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens should be on your to do-list for those who are interested in Japanese history and culture. The Gardens offer a unique glimpse into the lifestyle of the wealthy and influential Iwasaki clan, who were the founders of Mitsubishi.
One of the main attractions of the Gardens is the Western-style house designed by British architect Josiah Conder. The house is a beautiful example of the fusion of Japanese and Western architecture and design. You can also explore the Japanese house and billiard house, which are equally stunning in their own right.
Aside from the buildings, the Gardens themselves are a sight to behold. Covering an area of about 17,000 square meters, the Gardens feature a spacious and meticulously maintained landscape that is home to plants and trees.
