Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Kyu-Iwasaki Residence Gardens is a facility that preserves and opens to the public the mansion and gardens that were built in the Meiji period as the main residence of the Iwasaki family of the Mitsubishi zaibatsu. It features a Western-style main building (Western-style building) based on Western architecture, combined with a Japanese-style study and tatami room (Japanese-style building), billiards room, and other amenities, conveying the atmosphere of an upper-class residence from the Meiji period, where Western and Japanese styles blended together. There are many architectural and interior highlights, including a brick exterior, a luxurious grand staircase, stained glass, fireplaces, and intricate wooden design. The garden area is a strolling garden with a large lawn and pond, allowing visitors to enjoy its changing seasonal appearance. The building includes buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties, and is highly regarded for both its historical value and architectural beauty.
Highlights
- Western-style building (main house) - A red brick exterior, a luxurious grand staircase, stained glass, fireplaces and other intricate Meiji-era Western-style architectural designs.
- Japanese-style building - Calm Japanese-style rooms in the Shoin and Sukiya styles remain, and the contrast with the Western-style building gives us an idea of the lifestyle of the time.
- Billiard room: A small building with a beautiful skylight and wood grain design. A space that evokes the image of its role as a social gathering place.
- Garden: A strolling garden with a large lawn, pond, artificial hills and trees. It is beautiful in every season, with cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer and autumn leaves.
- Exhibits and explanatory panels - There are often exhibits that allow you to learn about the history of the Iwasaki family, the structure of the mansion, and records of preservation and restoration work.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Location: Taito-ku, Tokyo (close to parks and the Ueno/Ikenohata area).
- Train (walk):
- Approximately 15 minutes walk from JR Ueno Station (via the park)
- Approximately 10 minutes walk from JR Uguisudani Station
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Iriya Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line
- Bus: Take the Tokyo Metropolitan Bus route that passes through the area, and walk a few minutes from the nearest bus stop (travel time varies depending on the route).
- By car: Parking is limited in the area, so we recommend using public transportation. Please use the nearby paid parking lots.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Tour of the interiors of the Western-style building and Japanese-style building + stroll through the gardens: Approximately 30 to 60 minutes.
- If you want to take your time to look around, take photos, and read the explanations, you should plan on spending around 60 to 90 minutes.
Nearby spots
- Ueno Park (Tokyo National Museum, National Museum of Western Art, Ueno Zoo, etc.)
- Ameyoko (Ameya Yokocho)
- Yanaka, Nezu, Sendagi (Yanesen) area (old and quaint streets, temples and shrines, cafes)
- Nezu Shrine, Asakusa, and Sensoji Temple (there are many tourist spots within walking distance)
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The number of visitors increases on weekends, holidays, and during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting on weekday mornings.
- Photography etiquette: While photography is generally permitted in the gardens and exteriors, there may be restrictions on photography inside the buildings (flash and tripods are prohibited, and photography is not permitted in some rooms). Please follow the notices posted on-site and the instructions of the staff.
- Eating and drinking: Eating and drinking inside buildings and touching exhibits is generally prohibited. Make sure that this is only permitted in designated areas.
- Accessibility: There are some steps and stairs in some areas, making it difficult to view the entire building in a wheelchair. Please check the official information in advance to see if the facility is accessible.
- Pets: Even within the garden, there may be restrictions on pets, and rules regarding etiquette such as keeping pets on leashes and cleaning up their droppings. Please follow the rules when bringing pets with you.
- Temporary Closures and Restorations for Preservation: Parts of the museum may be closed to the public due to preservation and repair work or special events. It is best to check the latest information on the official website before visiting.
(Note) The latest opening hours, admission fees, special exhibitions, and guided tours are subject to change. Please check the official website or facility guide for the latest information before visiting.
