Constructed as a retreat for Emperor Taisho, Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa incorporates the architectural styles of the late Edo, Meiji, and Taisho periods.
The Tamozawa Imperial Villa was built in Nikko in 1899, using parts of a residence that originally stood in Tokyo. Before being moved to Nikko, the building served as the Tokyo residence of a branch of the Tokugawa family and was later used as the Imperial Palace.
In Nikko, it was enlarged into a summer residence and retreat for the Imperial Family of Japan but suffered neglect after World War II.
In the year 2000, the villa was opened to the public after extensive renovation. Today is a registered National Treasure.
In addition to the building's long line of illustrious occupants, Tamozawa Imperial Villa is one of the largest remaining wooden buildings in Japan. The interior of the villa is a curious mix of Japanese and Western styles. Many floors are carpeted, and elaborate chandeliers hang from the ceilings. Yet the villa's Japanese elements, such as sliding paper doors and tatami flooring are prominent as well.
Although still impressive in size and grandeur, Tamozawa Imperial Villa currently occupies only one third of its original area. It now functions as a museum and memorial park, and is well equipped with multilingual displays for visitors.
Visitors to Tomozawa Imperial Villa can explore the diverse buildings and the beautiful gardens while getting a feel for Japanese imperial culture. A walk in the garden with seasonal charms and 100 years of majestic history is beautiful year-round. Located close to the “Shrines and Temples of historic Nikko, the villa it is easily accessible.
The gardens feature a variety of seasonal flowers. The centrepiece is the 400 year old weeping cherry tree, which is most beautiful around mid-April. The combination of historic beauty and the elegant weeping cherry make for a memorable and authentic Japan experience.
The Tamozawa Villa is sure to leave a trace in the travelers’ mind, as it is not only an unusual historical discovery, but also one of the very few places in Japan to offer a direct insight on the imperial institution, unlike Tokyo and Kyoto’s Imperial Palaces, of which only the outer walls are viewable.
On a broader scale, a large part of the villa’s beauty is due to the green spaces. The alpine forest gives privacy to the place and the vast Japanese garden, its huge pines, its ponds, and its toro offer a beautiful stroll. The wooden villa, nestled among the trees, is particularly appreciated in autumn when the maple leaves turn red.
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