Mori Clan Garden (Mori Museum)

Overview

The Mori Clan Garden is a residence and garden built in Yamaguchi by the former Chōshū Domain's Mori family after they were granted the title of Prince following the Meiji Restoration. Construction began in 1892 but was interrupted by the First Sino-Japanese War and the Russo-Japanese War, resuming in 1912 and finally completed in 1916. Soon after completion, Emperor Taisho stayed there, and the imperial couple visited several times afterward. The garden is composed of a roadside garden leading from the entrance facing the old Sanyo Road, through a Yakui-mon style gate to the residence's entrance, a front garden, and an inner garden accessed through the Nakasujaku-mon gate. The inner garden features a large gourd-shaped pond covering 7,934 square meters, harmoniously integrated with natural forests, creating a magnificent and splendid landscape. The garden boasts a variety of plants, including plum, cherry, azalea, iris, wisteria, and maple trees, offering breathtaking seasonal views. The residence, with a floor area of 1,002 square meters, consists of 10 buildings with 60 rooms, constructed of Japanese cypress wood with a tiled roof. While adhering to the architectural style of Shoin-zukuri, featuring a carriage porch with a gently curving eaves and a spacious room with a coffered ceiling, it also incorporates cutting-edge technology of the time, such as chandelier lighting and a carpeted reception room (the only Western-style room) furnished with chairs and tables. Part of the residence is open to the public as the Mori Museum. It houses and exhibits approximately 20,000 cultural assets, including the national treasure "Four Seasons Landscape" by Sesshū and the Important Cultural Property, "Three Sons' Teachings" written by Mōri Motonari himself. The Mori Clan Garden is a precious place where history, culture, and nature harmoniously coexist, offering a glimpse into the beauty of Japan. Visit and experience its charm for yourself.