Tamozawa Imperial Villa

Tamozawa Imperial Villa

The villa was used as a vacation house for Prince Yoshihito who was the Taisho Emperor and the 123rd Emperor of Japan, one of the most prominent figures in Japanese history even after his passing in 1926. Like many visitors to this day, the ruling families were drawn to Nikko for its tranquil energy, spirituality and of course absolutely breathtaking natural views.

Tamozawa Imperial Villa

Contrasting in style to the extravagant Toshogu Shrine and its intricate carvings, the Imperial Villa’s key design focus was uncluttered minimalism an aesthetic that has carried through from the interior walls to the outside surrounding garden. If you have some time while in the area it’s worth exploring the villa’s sprawling, open garden as its collection of local plants and little waterways provide a scenic stroll through this historic little pocket of Nikko.

Tamozawa Imperial Villa

The villa actually has a very fascinating history. Originally Tamozawa was first built in 1632 by Empress Meisho who wanted a place for her relatives to live that was easily connected to the palace in Tokyo. Then in 1898, that three-storied section of the palace was pulled apart and relocated to its current day location in Nikko, where it was renovated and reborn as a new residence that was constructed around the same frame in 1899. Later on the Taisho Emperor used then it as his summer residence to escape the brutal heat of city until close to his passing.

Tamozawa Imperial Villa

Architecturally the Villa combines aesthetic elements of traditional Edo style that’s been influenced by Meiji ideologies, however the most interesting little design quirk is the villa’s tiny touches of western taste. Touches of western styles can be seen in the building’s carpeted rooms and hanging chandeliers that have been incorporated into its unique interior. With cedar doors, tatami flooring and sliding doors that lead to grand hallways, which open up onto the spacious garden grounds, it's the perfect place to visit if you’re after a little house design inspiration.

Tamozawa Imperial Villa

Though when it comes to tourist hotspots the villa may not sounds immediately like the number one option on your list, many visitors to the villa and its specular garden are plenty surprised by just how fascinating the villa and its architecture and history really is. It's also incredibly English friendly. All of the villa’s information is displayed in several languages and many of the staff speaks both English and Japanese. The introductory video at the building's entrance is also available in English. To get there from Nikko station catch one of the regular town buses and hop off at the Nikko tamozawa goyotei memorial park bus stop, the trip takes about 10 minutes and costs 310 yen each way.

Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park

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