Experience a magnificent Meiji-era mansion and a breathtaking Japanese garden boasting 2,000 maple trees.
The Nakano Residence Memorial Museum, located in Akiha Ward, Niigata Prefecture, is a stately mansion built in 1904 (Meiji 37) by Kanichi Nakano, a prominent Japanese oil magnate. This historically significant building, designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan, offers a glimpse into the life and times of the Meiji era. Explore the preserved interior of the mansion and view the art and calligraphy collected by Nakano-san, providing insights into the culture of the period. The highlight is undoubtedly the stunning Japanese garden, showcasing approximately 2,000 maple trees. Created over 49 years by top-class landscape architects from across Niigata Prefecture from the Meiji to Showa periods, this 2.3-hectare garden is a feast for the eyes. From the vibrant cherry blossoms of spring and the lush greenery of summer to the breathtaking autumn foliage and the serene winter snowscape, the garden offers stunning beauty year-round. The Nakano Residence Memorial Museum is a must-see destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.