In a park adjacent to Komaba University, the Former Maeda Family Residence offers a glimpse into Japan's aristocratic past. Beyond an imposing stone gate and to your left, the residence lies partially hidden, amongst the dense vegetation of oak and pine. Once regarded as one of the grandest mansions in all of Asia, this Western-Japanese architectural masterwork invites exploration.
The residence served as the home of the 16th Marquis Maeda, a member of one of Japan's most prominent samurai clans during the Edo period. By the Meiji Era, the Maeda family had transitioned into nobility. Designed by Yasushi Kataoka, a prominent architect of the time, and completed in 1929, the house reflects the political and cultural currents of its era, blending Western influences with traditional Japanese aesthetics. The estate is divided into two distinct sections: one side showcases geometric flooring and luxurious red carpeting, while the other embraces tatami mats and sliding paper doors.
This two-story home draws heavily on British architectural influences, reflecting the personal experiences of the Marquis, who spent time studying in England and later served as a military officer at the Japanese embassy in London. Interestingly, the Western wing of the mansion was completed first, demonstrating a clear prioritization of European styles.
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, while the surrounding garden embodies a Japanese sense of harmony, even as World War II loomed on the horizon.
With so many architectural accents under one roof, walking through the residence feels like stepping into a bygone era. Now recognized as a cultural heritage site, the Former Maeda Family Residence stands as a tribute to a fascinating intersection of cultures and an interesting chapter of Japan’s history.
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