Former Saito Family Villa

Overview

The former Saito family villa was built in 1918 by Kijujiro Saito, a wealthy merchant and member of the House of Peers, who was considered one of Niigata's three largest Zaibatsu (family-controlled industrial and financial conglomerates). The expansive strolling garden, built utilizing the slopes of Niigata Island's sand dunes, is designated a Place of Scenic Beauty due to its size and the breathtaking views it offers throughout the year. It's also recognized as part of Japan's Heritage, underscoring its historical significance. The villa itself is a masterpiece of modern Japanese architecture, based on the Sukiya style, exhibiting extravagant craftsmanship. The design is particularly ingenious in its arrangement of rooms, each offering a unique perspective of the garden. For instance, the first-floor hall provides a view of the artificial hills and pond, while the second-floor tatami rooms offer a panoramic view of the entire garden. Experiencing these diverse perspectives is a unique charm of the former Saito family villa. When visiting, take your time to stroll through the garden, savoring its beauty throughout the seasons. Exploring the rooms of the villa and imagining the lifestyle of a wealthy merchant is also a rewarding experience.