Tamozawa Villa

Tamozawa Imperial Villa (田母沢御用邸, Tamozawa Goyōtei) is a historic architectural gem that beautifully blends the styles of the Edo and Meiji eras across 106 rooms. Originally built in Tokyo, it was moved to Nikko in 1899 and transformed into a summer residence for the Imperial Family. The villa’s design seamlessly combines Japanese and Western influences, with traditional tatami flooring and sliding paper doors alongside European touches like chandeliers and carpeted rooms. After many years of neglect, the villa was meticulously restored and opened to the public in 2000, allowing visitors to experience its remarkable fusion of cultures and craftsmanship.

Today, Tamozawa Imperial Villa operates as a museum and memorial park, offering a unique window into Japan’s imperial history. Visitors can explore the villa's vast wooden structure, which stands as one of the largest surviving examples of its kind in Japan. The surrounding Japanese garden further enriches the experience, with its serene beauty highlighted by vibrant maple trees that put on a spectacular show of colors in late October and early November. This blend of historical architecture, lush greenery, and seasonal beauty makes Tamozawa Imperial Villa a must-visit destination for those interested in Japan’s imperial past and natural wonders.