Okitsu Zagyosō

Saionji Kinmochi/西園寺公望 (1849~1940) was a prominent diplomat for Japan especially in France who witnessed the passage of japan from feudalism to modern times. He was born in October 1849 as the second son of Tokudaiji Kinito, the Minister of the Right. One of Japan’s modern elder statesmen, he live d a long life spanning the Meiji, Taisho and Showa periods as a liberal politician until the age of 91 when he passed away in November 1940. Zagyo-So named by Viscount Chifuyu, was built facing the scenic Kiyomi lagoon in 1919 when Saionji was 70 years old as a place to lead a quiet life in his later years. Times change and on March 18th, 1971, Zagyo-So was moved to Museum Meiji Mura located in Inuyama City, Aichi Prefecture. It is still shown today as a National Tangible Designated Cultural Asset. Now a reproduction of Zagyo-So has been created on the land where it once stood thanks to the strong will of Okitsu (Shimizu Ku) people, the business world and the full cooperation and guidance from the Meiji Mura Foundation!

It was a wonderful building. The original building was apparently relocated to Meiji Village, but the current building, which has been faithfully restored, is also worth seeing. In fact, since it was built in the same location as before the war, it was easy to see that this place once faced a sandy beach, and I was very interested in the tour. The exhibits are also more fulfilling than I expected. Highly recommended.

In the past, there were many villas like this, and there was a lot of people coming and going. There is no trace of it now, but it must have been a scenic spot at the time when the coast could be seen. Although the building is a replica, it can be observed more realistically than a relocated building. It's interesting to see how the ceilings are low and high, reflecting the Japanese-Western style of society. Even with this, there are still many small rooms. You will get lost if you deviate from the regular route!

This is a reconstruction of Zagyoso, the villa of Prince Kinmochi Saionji, which was relocated to Meiji Village in Inuyama City, Aichi Prefecture. Although it is a replica, the floor plan is faithful to the floor plan, and it can be said that the structure inside has been almost perfectly reproduced.

A historic mansion where a famous politician lived. Inside, the staff will give you detailed explanations, and it's a good idea to take a tour while thinking about the past. The garden was well maintained and had a nice atmosphere.