Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park

Overview

Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park is where Emperor Taisho and Emperor Showa (then Crown Prince) once rested. Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa was built in 1899 (Meiji 32) as a resting place for Crown Prince Yoshihito. After his ascension to the throne as Emperor Taisho, extensive renovations were carried out from 1918 (Taisho 7) to 1921 (Taisho 10), resulting in the current structure. Until its closure in 1947 (Showa 22), it was used by three generations of Emperors and Crown Princes, including Emperor Taisho. After the war, it served as a museum, lodging facility, and training center. Following a three-year restoration and renovation by Tochigi Prefecture, it reopened as a memorial park in 2000 (Heisei 12). The buildings are a collection of structures representing three architectural styles: the late Edo period, Meiji, and Taisho periods. It's the largest surviving imperial villa from the Meiji and Taisho eras. These buildings and gardens offer a glimpse into the architectural techniques and imperial culture of that time. In 2003 (Heisei 15), it was designated a "National Important Cultural Property" for its historical significance, and in 2007 (Heisei 19), it was selected as one of Japan's "Top 100 Historical Parks." Enjoy the seasonal beauty of the gardens and the majestic atmosphere of the Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa, steeped in over 100 years of history.