Former Maeda Family Residence: Explore Japan’s Aristocratic Past in Tokyo

In a park near Komaba University, the Former Maeda Family Residence offers a glimpse into Japan's aristocratic history. Behind an impressive stone gate and to your left, the residence is partially hidden among the dense foliage of oak and pine. Once considered one of the grandest mansions in all of Asia, this Western-Japanese architectural masterpiece invites exploration.

Timeless staircase.

The residence was once the home of the 16th Marquis Maeda, a member of one of Japan's most renowned samurai clans during the Edo period. By the Meiji Era, the Maeda family had become part of the nobility. Designed by Yasushi Kataoka, a well-known architect of the time, and finished in 1929, the house reflects the political and cultural influences of its era, blending Western styles with traditional Japanese aesthetics. The estate is divided into two distinct sections: one features geometric flooring and plush red carpeting, while the other includes tatami mats and sliding paper doors.

The 16th Marquis, himself...

This two-story home heavily reflects British architectural influences, inspired by the Marquis's personal experiences, including his studies in England and his service as a military officer at the Japanese embassy in London. Interestingly, the Western wing of the mansion was finished first, showing a clear focus on European styles.

...and his office.

As you wander through its halls, you can imagine the vibrant life of the Maeda family, attended by a legion of servants—said to number 100 at its peak. Each room offers a unique highlight, from imported marble and French silk to opulent furnishings — all designed to impress at every turn. The symmetrical façade of the mansion is a testament to Kataoka’s meticulous planning. At the same time, the surrounding garden embodies a Japanese sense of harmony, even as World War II loomed on the horizon.

With numerous architectural accents under one roof, walking through the residence feels like stepping back in time. Now recognized as a cultural heritage site, the Former Maeda Family Residence stands as a tribute to a captivating intersection of cultures and an intriguing chapter of Japan’s history.

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