Pre-War Politicians and Military Figures Who Knew the West

Event Overview

This special exhibition is held at the Honma Family Residence, a historic samurai estate located in Sakata, Yamagata Prefecture. This residence, originally built to host official Shogunate inspectors during the Edo period, hosts seasonal exhibitions with unique themes. The current exhibition, "Pre-War Politicians and Military Figures Who Knew the West," showcases the private letters, correspondence, and precious personal items of influential figures such as Kimonoe Saionji, Fumimaro Konoe, and Isoroku Yamamoto. These individuals closely observed Western affairs during a turbulent era and, in some cases, held perspectives that stood against war.

Highlights and How to Enjoy

The greatest draw is the opportunity to connect with the "authentic voices" of history within a magnificent architectural setting. Rather than just viewing static artifacts, you can sense the underlying philosophies and the atmosphere of the era through the words they penned. The Honma Family Residence itself is a cultural treasure, featuring a grand gate (nagayamon) and the legendary "Garyu no Matsu" (Dragon Pine), a tree over 400 years old. We recommend exploring the exquisite Japanese garden and the aesthetics of the samurai residence alongside the historical exhibits to fully appreciate the legacy of the Kitamaebune maritime culture.

Schedule

This exhibition is typically held from early November to early December. Please note that the schedule and content are subject to change; we recommend checking the latest information before your visit. The residence is closed for the winter season from mid-December to late January.

Venue and Access

The venue is the Honma Family Residence in Sakata, Yamagata. It is a landmark site that symbolizes the rich history of the Sakata region.

Visitor Tips

While the visiting time may vary depending on the season and exhibition, we recommend allowing 40 to 50 minutes to fully appreciate the history and the architecture. Be sure to look closely at the architectural details of the building and the garden.

What to Bring and Etiquette

As this is a facility housing precious cultural properties, please do not touch the exhibits. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes to navigate the historic grounds. Please follow local payment regulations on-site. For reservation requirements or the latest exhibition status, please check the official website.